Buffalo Bills Offensive Coordinator Ken Dorsey observing a pre-game moment prior to an NFL football game on October 30, 2022, in Orchard Park, New York. (AP Photo/Bryan Bennett)
The Buffalo Bills have undergone a significant shift in their coaching staff by parting ways with offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey and appointing quarterbacks coach Joe Brady as the interim replacement. Coach Sean McDermott clarified that the decision was fueled by a need for increased confidence, energy, and the pursuit of consistent production.
Response to Broncos’ Defeat
This move follows the Bills’ recent defeat to the Denver Broncos on Monday Night Football, where they faced challenges such as four turnovers and a season-high four drops. The decision to remove Dorsey comes in response to the Bills’ 5-5 record, placing them outside the playoff picture in a fiercely competitive AFC, coupled with the toughest remaining schedule, according to ESPN Analytics.
Season Reflection and Challenges
Reflecting on the season, McDermott acknowledged moments of moving the ball and scoring points but noted a decline in these instances since the early weeks. Despite standout statistical performances, including ranking third in offensive EPA per play and high completion percentages, the Bills struggled to maintain consistent high-level performance, especially after Week 5.
Dorsey’s Issues as Coordinator
Dorsey elevated to the role of offensive coordinator in 2022, faced challenges as the Bills’ offense grappled with turnovers, ranking last in the NFL with 21% of drives ending in a turnover since Week 5. The offense failed to surpass 25 points since Week 4, with star quarterback Josh Allen leading the NFL with 14 turnovers and 11 interceptions during Dorsey’s tenure.
McDermott emphasized that the decision to fire Dorsey was made independently, and now it’s Josh Allen’s responsibility to support interim coach Joe Brady in formulating and executing game plans. The Bills hope Brady, known for his creativity and prior experience with the Carolina Panthers, will bring new energy to the offense.
Strategic Coaching Shift: Addressing Performance
The coaching shakeup aims to address issues such as inconsistent running game performance, complementary football with the defense, and the team’s starting field position margin. The Bills view this change as a strategic move to inject new life and strategic direction into the team for the remainder of the season.
Brady’s Key Role and Background
Brady, with offensive coordinator experience from his time with the Carolina Panthers (2020-21), will play a pivotal role. McDermott noted ongoing discussions about the logistics of a new quarterbacks coach and Brady’s role on game days. Before his time with the Panthers, Brady was the passing game coordinator at LSU in 2019, contributing to quarterback Joe Burrow’s Heisman Trophy-winning season and the Tigers’ national championship victory.
