Most discussion I hear of the offensive struggles has been blaming the OC, Josh’s headspace, receivers, etc. but few people are considering the fact that Josh is injured and that injury has coincided with their slump. I am concerned that the Bills fired their offensive coordinator when what was really needed was a few weeks for Josh to get right.
I think this injury is more serious than most fans and analysts realize.
- Josh has been on the injury report every week since the injury
- Josh nearly missed snaps after a visit to the medical tent during the Bucs game
- Josh missed a Wednesday practice coming off a long break (after Bucs TNF)
- Benjamin Solak of the Ringer recently called out a steep drop in downfield accuracy following the injury
This injury is nagging and staying around, but most importantly I believe this is meaningfully impacting his accuracy. Check out the statistical drop (against arguably easier defenses):
| Stat | Since Injury |
|---|---|
| Passer Rating | Down 17% |
| Yards/Attempt | Down 14% |
| Passing Touchdowns | Down 27% |
| Completion % | Down 8% |
| Passing Yards | Down 15% |
Not as scientific, but it seems like he’s underthrown more than I remember. The INT to Davis in Cinci in particular comes to mind. The long pass to Diggs that would have been housed if Diggs didnt have to stop and wait for the pass (don’t remember which game). You be on to have something.