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| Monday, February 26 By Merril Hoge Special to ESPN.com | |||
The one thing you can't argue with is that Doug Flutie has been able to win in Buffalo. So, if the Bills are going to keep him around for that reason, they have to understand -- and have been able to understand -- that there are limitations to Doug's game. The coaches have done a very nice job over the past two years of off-setting those limitations. Doug can't throw the deep in route. He is not able to attack the middle of the field with his arm. To account for this, the coaches have developed alternatives with fade routes and an increased reliance on tight end Jay Riemersma. They are simply trading those limitations for the fact that Doug has been able to win. Over a period of time, in the latter stages of the season, the limits on Doug's ability have been shown to be a detriment to the team. But he's won and been able to play on a consistent basis. Sometimes those are the parameters that personnel decisions have to be based on. Rob Johnson, regardless of his physical talent, has not been able to play consistently. It's difficult to hinge your franchise on a quarterback who can't stay in the lineup. The Bills will clearly have to bring another quarterback in to spell Flutie. Whether it's through the draft or a free agent who has some good years left, they will need another quarterback. You can't go into a season thinking Doug Flutie is going to last for 16 games. The body can only take so much pounding for so many years before it falls apart. Even Darrell Green can't defy those odds forever. Send this story to a friend | Most sent stories | ALSO SEE Donahoe: No decision yet on Flutie, JohnsonStatistical breakdown: Flutie vs. Johnson | ||
