Buffalo Bills’ defensive leaders talk about Mike White
This Sunday, the Buffalo Bills and New York Jets will meet for the first of their two matchups this season. The Jets are searching for their first win against a Josh Allen-led Bills team since his rookie season in 2018 while Buffalo is coming off of a shocking loss to Jacksonville.
Despite suffering a nerve contusion in his throwing arm during last Thursday’s loss to Indianapolis, backup quarterback Mike White is ready to go and will start for the Jets against Buffalo while Zach Wilson remains sidelined (PCL).
During Friday’s media availability, Bills safety Micah Hyde and Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver spoke highly of the inexperienced quarterback.
“He’s decisive,” said Hyde. “Obviously, knowing the playbook, knowing his reads, getting the ball out quick … and when you do that, and you get the ball in playmakers hands, you’re able to make some stuff happen.”
If there has been one thing in particular that stands out about White in comparison to Wilson, it is certainly his command of the offense, and Buffalo seems to recognize that.
Hyde also spoke on White’s demeanor. “He’s feeling confident right now. The team is confident with him, and it’s going to be a big challenge for us,” said Hyde.
When asked about facing a quarterback with limited film, Oliver spoke about sticking to the basics.
“We just gotta stick to our keys. Rush the quarterback, get their hands off us up front, and just get after it … we’ll take care of business.”
The 2019 first-round pick called White a “playmaker,” but also didn’t shy away from the competition.
“We got a good defense, so we gotta minimize him and try to give our offense a fighting chance,” said Oliver.
Heading into his third NFL start, White will face off against one of the league’s best defenses. The Bills are allowing the fewest points per game in the NFL at 14.8. The Jets are dead last in the same category, giving up 31.4 points per game.
White’s early performance suggests he could be ready for such a test. He currently leads the NFL in passer rating while under pressure with a mark of 117.9.
With a good matchup (on paper) for the Jets’ defense against Buffalo’s offense, a solid game from White should keep things close.
At the same time, the Bills understand who they’re up against on Sunday and are not taking him lightly.
