Bills vs. Colts Preseason Preview: Damar Hamlin, Rookie Debuts
Let the NFL (pre)season begin!
The Buffalo Bills host the Indianapolis Colts at Highmark Stadium Saturday night in the first of their three preseason games. This matchup is highlighted by a possible look at Damar Hamlin in his first appearance after collapsing on the field from cardiac arrest last season. Fans will also get a chance to see Buffalo's rookies, including tight end Dalton Kincaid and offensive guard O’Cyrus Torrence.
Coach Sean McDermott confirmed that quarterback Josh Allen and receiver Stefon Diggs will not play against the Colts but he plans for Allen to get preseason snaps at some point. The starters that do play are expected to play for about a quarter vs. Indianapolis, according to McDermott.
"They'll play give or take a quarter just again, depending on who it is and in the situation in the game,” McDermott said. “Overall, we want to get them where they need to go but also then, take a good look at some of the young players.”
While fans may have to wait to see all the starters, they will likely see major playing time for Buffalo's rookies. Some face an uphill battle in terms of making the roster. Others, such as Kincaid and Torrence, could be making a case for starting snaps.
Buffalo's many roster hopefuls try to earn their spot before Tuesday, Aug. 29, when every NFL team must reduce its roster to 53 players. Buffalo's 16-player practice squad will then begin to form.
RECORDS: Buffalo Bills (0-0) at Indianapolis Colts (0-0)
ODDS: Buffalo is a 4.5-point underdog vs. the Colts.
GAME TIME: Saturday, Aug. 12 2023 at 1 p.m. ET
LOCATION: Highmark Stadium - Orchard Park, NY
TV/RADIO: CBS, WGR 550
THE FINAL WORD: Bills second-year offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey on Diggs' impact in training camp:
"He's done a great job... From a practice standpoint and being out here every day emulates what you want your guys to be about. He comes out every single rep, works hard and wants to be in every single rep. He really lays a foundation for that room in terms of work ethic, [and] in terms of the energy that he brings."
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