Bills vs. Bears Preseason Massacre: Why Joint Practice Didn’t Pay Off

CHICAGO — The Buffalo Bills’ decision to hold a joint practice with the Chicago Bears last Friday came into sharp focus Sunday night when the teams faced off in their second preseason game — a lopsided 38-0 win for the Bears.

Following the intense, physical joint session — which allowed coaches Sean McDermott and Ben Johnson to script competitive reps — McDermott chose to rest nearly all of his starters for the game. With most of the top players sidelined, the Bears overwhelmed Buffalo’s second- and third-stringers from the start, jumping out to a 28-0 halftime lead and never looking back.

“That wasn’t up to our standard,” McDermott said bluntly after the loss. “It doesn’t matter who’s out there — ones, twos, threes, fours — we expect better execution across the board.”

Why Starters Sat

McDermott said the joint practice met the team’s preseason objectives, prompting his decision to rest starters to avoid injuries and evaluate depth. The only starters who saw limited action were WR Joshua Palmer and rookie S Cole Bishop, both of whom had missed significant practice time.

“We thought we moved in the right direction after the practice,” McDermott said. “We wanted to get a look at some other guys, but we didn’t see enough of what we were hoping for.”

Offensive Struggles for Mike White

Quarterback Mike White got the start but had little to work with, playing behind a patchwork offensive line and without the starting skill players that backup Mitch Trubisky benefitted from in the previous game. White completed just 4 of 11 passes for 54 yards, was sacked twice, and failed to lead a scoring drive.

“We try to keep things even between our quarterbacks, but it’s not always possible,” McDermott explained. “Mike had the first half this week like Mitch did last week, and we’ll evaluate from there.”

Trubisky took over in the third quarter, finishing 7 of 13 for 56 yards. His most promising drive ended with a Frank Gore Jr. fumble inside the Bears’ 20-yard line.

Cole Bishop’s Rough Debut

Rookie safety Cole Bishop, expected to be a Week 1 starter, had a forgettable showing in limited snaps. On the Bears’ first touchdown, Bishop was clearly beaten in man coverage on a 36-yard slant to WR Olamide Zaccheaus.

“He needs the reps,” McDermott said. “There’s no substitute for experience, and we saw that tonight.”

Bishop was quickly replaced by Jordan Hancock, who had been showing promise but left the game later with a shoulder injury after recording eight tackles.

Secondary Concerns Mount

The Bills' defensive backfield looks like a potential problem area. Christian Benford appears to be the only reliable corner. Tre'Davious White — likely the other starter — struggled in practice and didn’t play Sunday. First-round pick Max Hairston is behind due to injury, and depth options like Dane Jackson and Dorian Strong haven't inspired confidence.

If the Bills can’t generate consistent pressure up front, this secondary could be exposed.

Mixed Performances at Receiver

Tyrell Shavers continues to impress and was one of the few bright spots. He made a 22-yard catch in the first quarter and later drew a key pass interference flag. In contrast, Elijah Moore had two bad drops and didn’t play in the second half.

While Moore brings veteran experience, Shavers' size (6’4”, 211 lbs) offers something the Bills currently lack in their WR room, which is otherwise stacked with similar types like Khalil Shakir and Curtis Samuel.

Michael Hoecht’s Presence Missed

Defensive lineman Michael Hoecht, who will miss the first six games of the regular season, made an impact in limited time, recording a sack and four tackles. His energy and toughness have been a standout in camp.

“He’s smart, tough, and he sets the tone,” said McDermott. “We’ve liked him for a while, and he’s been a great addition. It’s unfortunate he’ll be out to start the season.”

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Quick Hits:

• The Bears outgained the Bills 371-47 in the first half.

• Buffalo’s top performer may have been punter Brad Robbins (46.5-yard average on five punts).

• Rookie safety Jordan Hancock left with a shoulder injury.

• The Bills' depth was tested — and exposed.

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Sal Maiorana has covered the team for four decades and co-hosts the BLEAV in Bills podcast. Reach him at maiorana@gannett.com or on X @salmaiorana.