Bills Central

Bills Lead Commanders at Halftime Thanks to Josh Allen, Defense

The Buffalo Bills head into the locker room with a sizable lead over the Washington Commanders thanks to strong defensive play.

Jon Alfano

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Last week, the Buffalo Bills beat the Las Vegas Raiders thanks to a dynamic offensive performance.

Through one half against the Washington Commanders at FedEx Field on Sunday, it's the defense's time to shine as the Bills are pitching a shutout lead 16-0 at halftime.

Buffalo's defense has largely stymied Washington's offense through two quarters, allowing just 107 yards and six first downs. More importantly, the Bills have made life difficult for Commanders second-year quarterback Sam Howell.

The Bills' pass-rush has been very active in this game, recording three sacks in the first half. They've also posed issues in coverage with two key interceptions.

In just his fourth-career start, linebacker Terrel Bernard has been a monster for Buffalo's defense. Through 30 minutes, he has four tackles, two sacks and an interception. Bernard has had a solid start to the season, but he's playing like a man possessed in this game.

Other defensive standouts include fellow linebacker Matt Milano, who has two tackles and a tackle for loss, and defensive tackles Ed Oliver and DaQuan Jones, who combined for another sack. Safety Micah Hyde had the second interception, ending the Commanders hopes of getting on the board before half.

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Not to be outdone, the offense has also had a strong showing in the first half. Quarterback Josh Allen has been the biggest standout, as usual, completing 14 of 22 passes for 140 yards and a touchdown with 36 rushing yards. Star receiver Stefon Diggs, playing in his home state of Maryland, has five receptions for 58 yards, while Gabe Davis has one catch for 35 yards and a touchdown.

Howell has completed 8 of 13 passes for 96 yards and two interceptions with 18 rushing yards for Washington. Running back Brian Robinson Jr. has four carries for only 12 yards.

The Bills will be on defense to start the second half, but with how this game is going, they may like it that way.

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Jon Alfano
JON ALFANO

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