Full Breakdown
Buffalo Bills Face Offensive Line Crisis Ahead of Matchup with Pittsburgh Steelers
11/28/2025, 10:08:25 PM
Key Injuries Impacting the Bills' Offense
The Buffalo Bills are set to face a significant challenge in their Week 13 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, as both starting offensive tackles, Dion Dawkins and Spencer Brown, have been ruled out due to injuries sustained in the previous game against the Houston Texans. Coach Sean McDermott confirmed that Dawkins is in concussion protocol after experiencing symptoms following the game, while Brown is dealing with a shoulder injury that prevented him from finishing the contest. This marks the first game Dawkins will miss due to injury since December 1, 2022.
In addition to the tackles, linebacker Terrel Bernard and wide receiver Curtis Samuel have also been ruled out for the game. Bernard suffered a dislocated elbow, while Samuel is dealing with elbow and knee injuries. The Bills' injury report has raised concerns about their offensive capabilities, especially against a formidable Steelers defense featuring edge rushers T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig.
Offensive Line Adjustments
With both starting tackles unavailable, the Bills are expected to rely on swing tackle Ryan Van Demark, who has previously filled in for Brown, and potentially Tylan Grable, who has just returned from Injured Reserve. Grable has not played this season due to a concussion but has been practicing and could be activated if deemed fit. The offensive line's struggles have been evident, as quarterback Josh Allen has already been sacked a career-high number of times this season, doubling the total from the previous year.
Official Statements & Responses
Coach Sean McDermott expressed the team's ongoing evaluation of their options, stating, "We're going through some of the different options," regarding the offensive line adjustments. The absence of Dawkins and Brown is particularly concerning given the Bills' recent performance, where they scored less than 20 points in three road losses this season.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed out that the Bills' offensive line issues could severely impact their playoff aspirations. The Steelers, who have struggled to capitalize on similar situations in the past, may find this matchup an opportunity to exploit the Bills' vulnerabilities. Despite the Steelers' own injury concerns, including defensive lineman Derrick Harmon and offensive tackle Broderick Jones, they are expected to benefit from facing a weakened Bills offensive line.
What's Next
The Bills will need to adapt quickly as they prepare for their game against the Steelers on November 30. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:25 PM EST at Acrisure Stadium. The outcome of this game is crucial for the Bills, who are vying for a playoff spot in the competitive AFC, especially with the New England Patriots currently leading the division.
Verbatim Quotes
- “it doesn't look that way” — Sean McDermott on the possibility of injured reserve for Brown and Bernard.
- “He’s a young player that we have a lot of confidence in. He hasn’t played in a while - he went out, I believe, in preseason there, if not before. So we get that, we understand that. We’ll just take it one day at a time, and he’ll work back in and we’ll go from there.” — Sean McDermott on Tylan Grable's potential return.
- “The next day is when I first heard of it.” — Sean McDermott regarding Dawkins' concussion symptoms.
The Bills' ability to navigate this injury crisis will be pivotal as they aim to maintain their position in the playoff race.