Predictions: Vikings expected to sack and pillage Buffalo

The Buffalo Bills (1-2) looked like they had Sunday's game against the AFC East rival New York Jets in hand in the first quarter, but a shift of momentum turned a sure-win into a disappointing 28-20 loss.

Quarterback J.P. Losman threw for a career-best 328 yards and running back Willis McGahee rushed for 150 yards, but some missed opportunities and a better-than-expected Jets defense held the Bills in check. Buffalo also committed three turnovers and botched a fake field goal.

This week, the Bills will look to even their record at 2-2 when they host the Minnesota Vikings (2-1) Sunday. The Vikings are coming off a 19-16 loss to Chicago. It will be a special day for Bills fans as former receiver Andre Reed will be on hand to see his named added to the Wall of Fame at Ralph Wilson Stadium.

 The Bills obviously flopped in their home opener, so now the question is this: Which Buffalo team is going to show up for the rest of the 2006 season, the one which dominated Miami in Week Two, or the one that looked like it had no business being on the field at Ralph Wilson Stadium. I don't know about the rest of the year, but I have a feeling Buffalo's going to fall to 0-2 at home this weekend. J.P. Losman can have

all the career passing yardage days he'd like, but it won't matter if he can't hold onto the ball. - Minnesota 35, Buffalo 17. Jason Nadolinski, Sports Reporter (2-1)

 The Bills let one slip away. Despite nearly 500 yards of offense and a strong balance of running and passing yards, one key element was the difference - turnovers. The key to winning this game will be winning the turnover battle. At this point, that edge would seem to favor the Vikings. - Minnesota 20, Buffalo 17. Chris Gordon, Orchard Park Editor (2-1)

 I didn't think anything could be worse than the Bills losing at home. That was until they gave up three turnovers, one of which turned the game around, giving the Jets the winning advantage. The boys again have home-field advantage this Sunday against the Vikings. If they keep their heads in the game and the ball in their hands they could capture another win. But I don't see it happening. - Minnesota 28, Buffalo 24. Jill Schmelzer, Lifestyles Coordinator (2-1)

 There were plenty of positives in the Week Three loss to the Jets and, once again, the team played tough throughout the game. However, things won't get any easier this week against the Vikings, but I just can't pick against the Bills yet. As long as they play smart, run the ball and stop the run they have a chance. - Buffalo 24, Minnesota 21. Ken Bartolotta, Lifestyles Reporter (2-1)

 If J.P. Losman plays mistake-free football and Willis McGahee can pick up a blitz, then the Bills will have a chance against Minnesota. Even playing at home, I don't see the Bills cracking the win column against the Vikings. - Minnesota 17, Buffalo 13. Patrick Nagy, Sports Reporter (2-1)

 The Bills' offense is coming around and showing signs that it can put up some points. However, Buffalo still needs to rely on the defense and special teams to win games. Minnesota has a better record against tougher teams this year and will walk out of Ralph Wilson Stadium with another win. - Minnesota 24, Buffalo 17. Matt Krueger, Sports Reporter (1-2)

 Take a look and see what Brad Johnson and the sleeping Minnesota Vikings have been doing. The 2-1 Vikes played in this past weekend's must-watch game against the now-undefeated, terror of the Midwest, the Chicago Bears. And Brad Childress's mustache is about as tight as the Vikings' offensive line. - Minnesota 32, Buffalo 17. Nick Primerano, Ken-Ton Editor (1-2)