ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — On a gusty day in Orchard Park, it was anything but smooth sailing for the Bills in their season opener.
"I think this team was tested early here," Bills head coach Sean McDermott said.
But against the Cardinals in Week 1, the Bills found a way to get it done.
Buffalo overcame a 14-point, first-half deficit thanks to some timely stops and big games from Josh Allen (four total touchdowns) and Greg Rousseau (three sacks) to get past Arizona 34-28 in the season opener.
"We got down early in the game, and then we were fighting back from there, and I think that, in and of itself, is a great sign for our football team," McDermott said.
"It's just don't blink, been here before," Allen said. "We knew that we were getting the ball at halftime, so we get the ball, finding a way to score points before and after the half. Coach McDermott preaches that all the time. That's good situational football by our guys."
On top of overcoming the difference on the scoreboard, the Bills had to battle some early injury adversity with All-Pro corner Taron Johnson going down on the first drive of the game.
Fortunately for the Bills, they have the dependable Cam Lewis.
The former UB Bull stepped up when his number was called, contributing 10 tackles, second-most on the team.
Lewis said he takes pride in being a sort of Swiss Army knife for the Bills defense.
"100%, that's why I'm here," Lewis said. "That's why I have a job. Try to play all four core special teams, nickel, dime, safety. Whatever you need me to do, I'm going to do it to the best of my ability. I've been in this system for six years now so I know the ins and outs of it. Whatever I've got to do to help my team win is what I'm going to do."
More unsung heroes include Mack Hollins with a score in his Bills debut, Ja'Marcus Ingram with a pass breakup on the Cardinals final 4th down attempt and Tyler Bass, knocking through a pair of field goals after a shaky training camp and preseason.
The Bills are now 1-0 against adversity this season, and 1-0 heading into Miami on Thursday night.