NFL Buffalo Bills

Kyle Orton Will Be X-Factor For Buffalo Bills In Week 10

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By @nick_villano

Kyle Orton Buffalo Bills

Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

The Buffalo Bills have been on a roll since coach Doug Marrone decided to go with Kyle Orton as his starting quarterback over E.J. Manuel. They have won three of four games, putting their record at 5-3.

They are right in the thick of the AFC playoff race, as there are five teams not in first place that have three losses. One of those teams is the Kansas City Chiefs.

The Chiefs have won five of their last six after starting off the season 0-2. Their main win was a 41-14 drubbing against the New England Patriots on Monday Night Football. They showed that they are still a force to be reckoned with in the AFC.

This is an important game for both teams. With five teams fighting for two playoff spots, one loss could make or break the season. If the Bills want to continue to be regarded as a playoff contender, then this is a game they must win.

The Chiefs have played better against QBs than any team in the league. They allowed a combined 58 points to Tom Brady, Peyton Manning and Philip Rivers. That’s three of the best QBs in the league who couldn’t combine for more than 20 points per game. How can Orton overcome this defense?

That is what makes him the x-factor in this matchup. The Chiefs are the only team in the league that allows less than 200 passing yards per game, and Orton needs to overcome this if they are going to score any points.

The Bills are currently working without their two starting running backs C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson. Despite that, Orton is on pace to have the best season of his career. His current 67.4 completion percentage is five points more than any season he played at least four games. It’s amazing to think that this man was retiring just a few months ago.

Orton must continue to excel in this offense with Sammy Watkins, who has excelled in his rookie season. If that connection can have success on Sunday, then the Bills have a chance to upset Kansas City in Ralph Wilson Stadium. That is what makes Orton the x-factor for the Bills.

Nick Villano is the New Jersey Devils writer for Rant Sports.  He also adds to the site’s NBA, MLB and NFL content.  You can follow him on Twitter or add him to your Google circle.

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