Bills Defender Sounds Off on Early Defensive Troubles

The Buffalo Bills are winning games because of the offense right now. 

It might not be the nicest thing to say, but quarterback Josh Allen and the offense carried the defense through the first six weeks. The Bills rank No. 31 in defense in total yards, giving up an average of 386.8 yards per game.

During an interview with Ari Meriov, of the 33rd Team, cornerback Christian Benford explained why he wasn't worried about the defense's troubles so far this season. He noted that many players on the defense haven't played together before. They're still adjusting to first-year defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard's system.

Benford believes that as the season progresses, the defense will get better with more reps.

"We’re gonna be good. It’s gonna be good," Benford said.

Benford has had a solid start to the season, recording 19 tackles and five passes defensed.

The Bills improved to 5-1 after an eight-day West Coast trip that included wins over the Los Angeles Rams and Las Vegas Raiders. Buffalo put up 70 points to win those games. The defense gave up 64. 

Week 7 is a perfect time for the defense to catch its breath and regroup before the second half of the season. The Bills will next host the Baltimore Ravens in Week 8, and that could be a tall order if quarterback Lamar Jackson is ready to return from his left ankle sprain.

The Bills decided to overhaul the defense after Sean McDermott was hired. Head coach Joe Brady is an offensive minded coach, so the Leonhard hire was critical for Buffalo. The jury is still out on the hire, but the Bills will need to see better defensive play if they hope to make a Super Bowl push.

In recent seasons, the offense has been good enough to win the Super Bowl. The defense continues to be the question mark. The only time the Bills have held a team to fewer than 29 points this season came against the Los Angeles Chargers in a 24-16 win. 

After playing the Ravens, the Bills defense has a chance to gain confidence in games against the Minnesota Vikings, New York Jets and Miami Dolphins. Those three teams aren't offensive powerhouses.

The Bills must improve at getting after the passer. Though their first six games, Buffalo has recorded just 11 sacks on the season. That hasn't helped the secondary, as the Bills have just three interceptions.