Dawkins’ Illness Poses Challenge for Bills Against Garrett’s Record Chase
As the Buffalo Bills prepare to face off against the Cleveland Browns, they find themselves grappling with a daunting challenge: containing Myles Garrett, the Browns’ formidable edge rusher, who is on the cusp of breaking the single-season sack record. A crucial component of the Bills’ offensive line, left tackle Dion Dawkins, is currently sidelined due to illness, missing the start of practice for Week 16. This situation could potentially mark Dawkins’ second absence in just four weeks, raising alarms for Buffalo’s offensive front as they gear up to face a future Hall of Famer.
The Stakes for Dawkins and the Offensive Line
Dawkins’ absence would significantly impact the Bills, who desperately need his skill and experience on the field. The offensive line faces the monumental task of protecting quarterback Josh Allen from a relentless pass rush led by Garrett. With Garrett’s impressive ability to wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Buffalo’s offensive unit.
This season, Garrett has established himself as a force to be reckoned with, achieving a staggering 17.5 of his 21.5 sacks while primarily aligning on the right edge—81.5% of the time, to be exact. This strategic positioning often places him directly against the opposing left tackle, a matchup that could become increasingly problematic for the Bills if Dawkins isn’t available. His absence would not only affect the blocking scheme but could also embolden Garrett as he pursues the all-time sack record, needing just one sack to tie it and 1.5 to surpass.
Dawkins’ Performance Under Pressure
While Dawkins has faced challenges in pass protection this season, allowing a 7.7% pressure rate—the highest since 2020—he still ranks as one of the top left tackles in the league, sitting at the 10th lowest in terms of pressure allowed. His experience and skill in blocking are invaluable, especially against an elite pass rusher like Garrett. The Bills are well aware that Dawkins’ health could be the difference between a successful offensive outing and a day filled with pressure on Allen.
Van Demark Steps Up if Needed
Should Dawkins be unable to suit up against Cleveland, Ryan Van Demark would be tasked with stepping into the starting role for the fourth time this season. Van Demark has previously filled in for both Dawkins and right tackle Spencer Brown, showing resilience and adaptability during his earlier starts. However, the challenge of facing Garrett is a different beast altogether.
The Bills have seen Van Demark perform admirably in his past outings, but the prospect of a defensive showdown with Garrett makes it imperative for the team to get their star left tackle back on the field. Without Dawkins, the Bills’ offense could find itself overwhelmed, setting the stage for a potentially memorable afternoon for Cleveland’s standout defender.
As the Bills navigate this critical moment in their season, the health of Dion Dawkins looms large over their preparations. The implications of his absence could reverberate throughout the game, impacting not just the Bills’ strategy but also the pursuit of a historic achievement for Myles Garrett.
