NFL Buffalo Bills

Kyle Orton is the Difference-Maker For the Buffalo Bills

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By @RyanRattyNFL

Kyle Orton Bills

Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

Just a few months ago, Kyle Orton spurned the Dallas Cowboys because he planned on retiring.

Knowing that he would never be the starter in front of Tony Romo, Orton decided to sign with the Buffalo Bills in hopes of taking over for E.J. Manuel as the starting quarterback. After losing two games in a row as the starter, offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett benched Manuel and decided to play the veteran. Since taking over as the quarterback, Orton and the Bills are 4-3.

Sitting at 6-5, the Bills kept pace in the AFC Wild Card race and that is huge considering the San Diego Chargers and the Cleveland Browns both won in Week 12.

Although he wasn’t really needed against the New York Jets, Orton showed that he doesn’t have to throw for 300 yards and three touchdowns for this Bills team to impress. Even without their star linebacker Kiko Alonso, the Bills have one of the league’s best defenses and, more importantly, one of the best special teams units.

Knowing that the Bills have a great defense and special teams unit, Orton just has to be a game manager on offense. With a capable back in Fred Jackson, Orton’s main responsibility is just to not turn the ball over, which was something Manuel had trouble with. Sammy Watkins, Robert Woods, Chris Hogan, and Scott Chandler have all been playing well since Orton started at quarterback in Week 5, and the main reason being is how Orton has made smart throws.

With five games left, and the Bills in need of winning at least three of them, their season will be decided on Orton and his ability to play turnover-free football.

Ryan Ratty is a featured writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @RyanRattyNFL or add him to your network on Google.

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