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Analysts and coaches around the league feared that injuries sustained by the Buffalo Bills defense would sink the unit before the regular season even began. All-Pros like Matt Milano were lost during training camp while slot cornerback Taron Johnson suffered his own injury in the first week of the season. Johnson has since returned to the team, but Milano is just making his way back.
Mark Konezny - USA TODAY Sports So how has Buffalo's defense stayed afloat during the first 11 weeks of the season? Thanks to the improved play of linebacker Terrel Bernard, it's been something of a seamless transition at times. Bernard enjoyed a breakout season last year with Buffalo recording over 140 tackles, five passes defended, 6.5 sacks, and three interceptions.
While he has dealt with injuries of his own, it's clear that Buffalo's defense has gravitated toward him. "He's in complete control of the operation. He's the unquestioned signal caller and leader of our defense," defensive coordinator Bobby Babich said.
"He showed a lot of fire." Related: Josh Allen Back As MVP Front-Runner After Bills' Win Buffalo's defense is ninth in the league in points allowed, and 16th in total yards given up. Bernard has been a big part of that - especially with other stars like Von Miller also suspended during the regular season.
For the organization to have a dominant lead in the AFC East, and compete for a top seed in the conference at large, the Bills have used improved play from their young core to get to this point. And Bernard is a key part of that. Related: Bills 'Secret' Stat No One is Talking About.
