Tyler Matakevich’s big play
Tyler Matakevich is not a name we hear often even though he plays a huge chunk of snaps. But there’s a huge curveball here.
In every game but one this season, Matakevich has led the Bills in snaps… on special teams. When signed the offseason from the Steelers, no one thought much. But Matakevich earned his pay against the Patriots with one huge play.
After scoring in the second half, Patriots head coach Bill Belichick decided to get crafty. In an attempt to catch the Bills sleeping, an onside kick was played. If Patriots kicker Nick Folk went to the other side of the field with his attempt, there’s as big likelihood that the Pats recover it. Every player on Buffalo’s special teams unit had their back turned and was set to block for returner Andre Roberts. Not Matakevich, though. Not even looking for a second that he was fooled, Matakevich pounced on the ball. Not only that, the Bills offense then went on and scored on their ensuing drive. That’s potentially a 14-point swing on the scoreboard that doesn’t happen without Matakevich’s wits.
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