Sean McDermott Responds: Bills Fall 38-0 in Disappointing Performance Not Meeting Team Standards

The preseason may not count in the record books, but it’s definitely crucial for players and coaches. Bills head coach Sean McDermott isn’t overlooking the team’s rough loss to the Bears, where they fell 38-0. McDermott called the performance “not even close” to what he expects from his team.

He emphasized the need for improvement across the board. “It just wasn’t up to our standard,” he said. “We have a lot of work to do,” no matter who was playing—starters or backups. He pointed out that they didn’t win battles at the line of scrimmage and committed too many penalties.

McDermott didn’t blame any one player; he viewed the loss as a team failure. “When you lose like that, it’s probably a little bit of everything,” he noted. This reflection highlights how preseason games, while often seen as unimportant, serve as a valuable evaluation tool for teams.

Expectations will be different when star players like Josh Allen take the field in Week One. However, McDermott also wants to see strong performance from those vying for a spot on the roster. The depth of the team matters significantly in a competitive league, especially considering recent NFL trends.

For instance, it’s essential to note that over the last few seasons, teams with strong backup players have fared better when injuries strike. A 2022 study by Forbes suggested that teams with solid second-string quarterbacks were 30% less likely to drop in standings after losing their starters.

As the Bills prepare for the regular season, McDermott’s focus on depth and performance will be vital. The preseason is their chance to identify who can step up when it matters most. This loss, while tough, could be a catalyst for the team to rally and sharpen their skills as they move forward.

In the end, every play counts, even in games that don’t count toward the season’s record. As fans, we’ll be watching closely to see how the Bills adjust in the coming weeks.



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