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5 Things We Learned From the Buffalo Bills’ 2014 Season

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By @MichaelTerrill

5 Things We Learned From the Buffalo Bills' 2014 Season

Buffalo Bills
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Even though the Buffalo Bills missed out on the playoffs, there is still plenty of reason for the team and the fans to hold their head high. There was plenty of promise shown throughout the year, which is why 2015 should be a good season. Still, it is time to reflect. Here are the five things we learned from the Bills’ 2014 season.

5. Big Trouble Without Kyle Orton

Big Trouble Without Kyle Orton
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5. Big Trouble Without Kyle Orton

Big Trouble Without Kyle Orton
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With Kyle Orton deciding to retire, the Bills are in big trouble at the quarterback position. Orton brought a breath of fresh under center and he played rather well this season, which is why it is shocking he has decided to call it a career. Despite Buffalo hoping EJ Manuel is the man for the job, the reality is he has no business being a starter in the NFL.

4. Elite Pass Rush Encouraging

Elite Pass Rush Encouraging
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4. Elite Pass Rush Encouraging

Elite Pass Rush Encouraging
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The Bills ranked first in the league in sacks (54) this season. In fact, three players had at least 9.5 sacks on the year. It is that type of elite pass rush that is incredibly encouraging for the team going forward. When a defense finds a way to get after the quarterback consistently, it opens the door for endless possibilities.

3. Plenty To Improve On Offense

Plenty To Improve On Offense
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3. Plenty To Improve On Offense

Plenty To Improve On Offense
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As good as the defense has been the offense needs plenty of work. It is that reason why it is disappointing to see Orton retire. He gave the pass offense some life, which took pressure off the running attack. Even with Orton’s help, though, the offense still squandered. There’s no question it will be a giant project in the offseason. The Bills ranked 18th in passing yards per game (225.9) and 25th in rushing yards per game (92.6).

2. Defense Is Championship Worthy

Defense Is Championship Worthy
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2. Defense Is Championship Worthy

Defense Is Championship Worthy
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As already discussed, Buffalo’s pass rush in unstoppable. It is the addition of a shutdown secondary that makes the Bills defense championship worthy. Buffalo handled some of the best receiving corps in the league, while disrupting some of the best quarterbacks. There is plenty to like about the defense, which should allow the team to enter the 2015 season beaming with confidence.

1. Mario Williams Continues To Be Great FA Signing

Mario Williams Continues To Be Great FA Signing
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1. Mario Williams Continues To Be Great FA Signing

Mario Williams Continues To Be Great FA Signing
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When the Bills unloaded a bunch of money on Mario Williams in free agency, it was met with some criticism. After three seasons, it’s quite clear signing Williams was an incredibly intelligent decision. In 2014, he posted a career-high 14.5 sacks, 42 tackles and two forced fumbles. He’s the heart and soul of the defense and he will be the reason why the team should make some serious noise in the AFC East next season.

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