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NFL Buffalo Bills

5 Takeaways From Buffalo Bills’ Week 10 Loss

By @cdrottar19

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5 Takeaways From Buffalo's Week 10 Loss

5 Takeaways From Buffalo's Week 10 Loss
Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

The Buffalo Bills came into Week 10 with two straight wins and plenty of rest thanks to a bye last week. Hosting the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo started out hot, looking like they may just continue their winning streak. However, it was not to be, as the Chiefs took home the victory. It was an odd game for the Bills, and here are five reasons why they came up short today.

1. Kyle Orton Came Back to Earth

1. Kyle Orton Came Back to Earth
Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

1. Kyle Orton Came Back to Earth

1. Kyle Orton Came Back to Earth
Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

Orton had been quite the steadying presence for the Bills after replacing E.J. Manuel at quarterback, but today the magic appeared to wear off a bit. Though he opened the game with a quick touchdown pass, he was erratic for the rest of the day. His accuracy was off, and he also seemed very jittery in the pocket. Buffalo better hope he's not regressing, otherwise they'll be in big trouble.

2. Lack of Red Zone Offense was Critical

2. Lack of Red Zone Offense was Critical
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2. Lack of Red Zone Offense was Critical

2. Lack of Red Zone Offense was Critical
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The Bills found themselves in the red zone four separate times today, but could never hit pay-dirt. Whether it was overthrows by Orton or Bryce Brown's fumble at the goal line, the team just couldn't punch it in when at the doorstep. Buffalo could've very easily won this game running away, but their inability to get into the end zone cost them dearly.

3. Turnovers Undid Buffalo’s Chances

3. Turnovers Undid Buffalo’s Chances
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3. Turnovers Undid Buffalo’s Chances

3. Turnovers Undid Buffalo’s Chances
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As mentioned, turnovers were also a big factor for the Bills today. Brown was inches from the end zone before fumbling at the last second. While the Chiefs failed to make Buffalo pay there, they did take advantage of the Bills' next giveaway. A fumbled punt return by Leodis McKelvin gave Kansas City great field position for the eventual go ahead touchdown. It was a crucial error which gave the Chiefs all the momentum they needed.

4. Questionable Play-Calling Bit Buffalo in the End

4. Questionable Play-Calling Bit Buffalo in the End
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4. Questionable Play-Calling Bit Buffalo in the End

4. Questionable Play-Calling Bit Buffalo in the End
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The Bills had one final chance to retake the lead late in the game. However, in the red zone facing a first and ten, Buffalo decided to go for it all on four straight plays. There was plenty of time left to try and keep moving the ball, but instead, Orton kept chucking it out of the end zone. It was a very curious move by Doug Marrone and his coaching staff, likely one he'll be having to explain all week.

5. Decision Not to Kick Late Field Goal Sealed Buffalo’s Fate

5. Decision Not to Kick Late Field Goal Sealed Buffalo’s Fate
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5. Decision Not to Kick Late Field Goal Sealed Buffalo’s Fate

5. Decision Not to Kick Late Field Goal Sealed Buffalo’s Fate
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Speaking of odd calls, when coming up on fourth down on the aforementioned drive, Buffalo chose not to kick a field goal which would've brought them within one point. The Bills defense had been effective all game, and the team had all of their time outs in hand. However, they decided to go for it, resulting in an incomplete pass and turnover on downs. It was the wrong call, and it resulted in the Bills giving up a must-win game.

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