AFC east

BUFFALO BILLS

TE Mark Campbell has become a larger part of the passing offense. He's a big target in the red zone and creates mismatches against smaller defensive backs. He runs well, has reliable hands and runs precise patterns that allow him to get separation.... LG Lawrence Smith, a former Ravens practice squad player, has been a pleasant surprise. He has good footwork, uses his hands well and works hard to finish blocks. He is good at anchoring after the initial blow from linemen and uses his long arms to keep defenders off his body. He doesn't have great size (6-3, 295) and isn't dominant at the point of attack but is a high-effort guy with good technique. He could become more than just a serviceable starter. OFFENSIVE SYSTEM CHECK: The Bills entered the season wanting a ball-control attack but have lacked consistency. They have scored six offensive touchdowns, none rushing, and especially struggle on third downs. They commit too many penalties and allow too many sacks to sustain drives.--Allen Wilson

MIAMI DOLPHINS

WR Chris Chambers put up good numbers (three catches, 128 yards) against the Rams, but don't conclude too quickly that he finally is getting himself free consistently. He got open on two unusual plays--a 48-yard pass from WR Marty Booker and a 71-yard TD catch on an all-out blitz late in the game.... DE David Bowens might not be the perfect end for the left side because he's a little light (260). However, give Bowens credit for being a smart player who knows how to make the most of his talent. He has long arms and plays with leverage. That allows him to play inside at times. OFFENSIVE SYSTEM CHECK: Although defenses still are blitzing on a regular basis, the signs of confusion that plagued the offensive line earlier this year are starting to disappear. There still are times when the Dolphins look overmatched physically because the linemen are learning individual techniques. Still, this is an important growing step for a unit that was overwhelmed by inexperience and too much change in the offseason.--Jason Cole

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

RG Stephen Neal appears to have solidified his hold on the starting job. He is a force on running plays, particularly when he pulls to his left. He has impressive strength, and his quickness makes him special, but he must improve his pass blocking.... WR David Givens continues to improve and become more versatile. He isn't very big and he doesn't have top-end speed, but he can make plays on the outside and from the slot. Givens has developed better hands and is good at leaving his feet and coming down with long passes down the sideline. OFFENSIVE SYSTEM CHECK: With WRs Troy Brown and Deion Branch out the past month, the team sometimes has struggled to keep the chains moving. The injuries have limited QB Tom Brady's options in spread formations, and WR Bethel Johnson's inconsistency has hurt. The team has tried using TE Daniel Graham from a stand-up position and moving Givens inside on occasion. More than anything, it has relied on RB Corey Dillon.--Michael Felger

NEW YORK JETS

DE John Abraham, always known for his pass-rushing ability, no longer is a one-dimensional player. He has improved against the run, showing discipline and technique. He squares up against blockers, holding his ground better than in the past.... The secondary is becoming a big concern. Don't be surprised if FS Jon McGraw returns to the starting lineup, reclaiming his job from Reggie Tongue.... Wayne Chrebet has adapted to his new role as the No. 3 receiver. He's savvy and knows how to find soft spots in a defense. He doesn't have great speed, but he's quick in and out of his cuts. Few wideouts know how to set up a defender better.

OFFENSIVE SYSTEM CHECK: After a promising start, the Jets haven't been able to pass down-field. With the running game working well, play-action passes should be effective but they haven't been. Most of QB Chad Pennington's passes go underneath. WR Santana Moss must get more involved.--Rich Cimini

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