Bills bench QB Taylor in favor of rookie Peterman
ORCHARDPARK,N.Y.» Rookie Nathan Peterman has replaced Tyrod Taylor as the Buffalo Bills’ starting quarterback in an abrupt move coach Sean McDermott said hemade in a bid to improve the team.
McDermott made the stunning announcement onWednesday, when theBills (5-4) returned topractice to prepare to play at the Los Angeles Chargers (3-6) on Sunday. Themove comes afterPetermanmadehisNFL debut in replacing Taylor for the final two drives of a 47-10 loss to New Orleans last weekend.
McDermott said he reached the decision on his own Tuesday inwhat became a change of heart, after he backed Taylor as the starter immediately following the game and again on Monday.
“This is about becoming a better team,” McDermott said. He would only say “we’ll see,” when asked if Peterman will remain the starter beyond this weekend.
It made no difference to McDermott in making a switch at the team’s most important position at a timewhen Buffalo has awinning record while holding down the AFC’s sixth and final playoff spot. The franchise is in themidst of a 17-year playoff drought — the longest active streak in North America’s four major professional sports.
“We are 5-4, I understand that,” McDermott said. “It is always and will be for the time that I’m here about becoming the best team we can possibly become. We are made formore than 5-4, and I’ve come here to be more than 5-4.”
Buffalo has lost two straight and Taylor has overseen an offense that ranks 28th in the NFL in yards offense and 30th in yards passing.
Taylor said hewas shockedwhen informed of the decision, and acknowledged feeling somewhat betrayed, saying “that’s one of the feelings.”
“Obviously disappointed,” Taylor said. “I don’t agree with the decision, but ultimately coachMcDermott has a vision for this team, what he feels is best for the teamas well as the owner and GM. I have to move forward and continue to be a teammate and a leader that I am in a different role.”
Taylor has a 20-18 record since taking over as the Bills’ starter in 2015. Though a dynamic runner, he’s been inconsistent as a passer and is coming off theworst performance of his career.