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Training camp is officially open, and we AFC East bloggers are all pretty pumped. Soon we'll be changing things up as we approach preseason and the games that count. For now, we bring you our ever-popular four-ring circus.
Leading our calisthenics is Brian G from SB Nation's Buffalo Bills blog, Buffalo Rumblings.
tommasse: What player(s) are the secret weapons in Buffalo this year?
Brian G: I tried to narrow this down to one player, but it was way too hard; so, instead, I'll give you two names that could have huge impacts on the Bills this season: Roscoe Parrish and Keith Ellison.
In an offense that is desperate for playmakers other than Lee Evans, Parrish may be the answer. It's true that rookie runner Marshawn Lynch is expected to make a few plays himself, but what Evans really needs is a receiver who is a threat to get the ball and make big plays in crucial situations. Entering his third season (a year that receivers typically break out), Parrish has the look of a player who may not wow anyone with his stats, but could end up being that difference-maker in tight spots. He has a flair for clutch plays; it's time to get him the ball to run wild in those situations.
Bills fans like to talk about Angelo Crowell and Paul Posluszny -- the two "big-name" linebackers on this squad -- but I've got two eyes on Ellison. As the weakside linebacker, he'll be expected to be the playmaker of the group -- and on a defense that will rely on forcing turnovers as opposed to stuffing the run, we'll need as much playmaking as possible. Already Ellison is proving he's up to the task -- he had two interceptions on the first day of practice. He's not overly athletic (or big for that matter), but he's one of the smartest players on the roster, and it shows. It'll be important for him to succeed to round out what looks like a promising young linebacking trio.
For my response, click "Read More"
tommasse's retort: The reason I asked Brian this question is because I don't really know, so I can't say much about it. We'll take B-man at his word and see how things roll for Parrish and Ellison.
OK, it's your turn. Step up to the Pulpit and say your piece. And if you have a question you want me to ask next week, email me, and I'll pose the best queries to our friends at Buffalo Rumblings, The Phinsider and NY Landing Strip.