The NFL is not a place for moral victories, and the Bills are 1-3 since their bye, but, unlike the first half of the season, the defense does not deserve the bulk of the blame. Dave Wannstedt’s unit, which began the season much-maligned, and deservedly so, has shown vast improvement.

In the first seven games of the season, the Bills allowed 32.4 points per game, 176.9 rushing yards at a staggering rate of 5.95 yards per carry. In the four games since, Buffalo has allowed 23 points per game, only 95.5 rushing yards at an admirable 3.35 yards per carry.

Veteran WLB Nick Barnett spoke with PFW on Thursday about how things have gotten better over the last month.

“Everybody coming together and doing their part and knowing exactly what they’re doing,” he explained. “(We are) playing with more confidence within the scheme instead of trying to figure out what to do and second-guessing. Guys are now getting used to playing different techniques, playing the two, three, me playing 'Will' linebacker. We’re getting it all together and getting our confidence where it needs to be.”

Barnett leads the team with 77 tackles and has two sacks, five tackles for loss and two forced fumbles this season at his new position.

The 10-year veteran is on a defense that has a mix of veterans, like himself, George Wilson, Kyle Williams and Mario Williams, and lots of youth, with several starters who are rookies or second-year pros. Barnett explained how the defensive locker room stayed confident in a season that has fallen short of expectations.

“Guys in this locker room are good at knowing that everything is not perfect. This is the NFL, any given Sunday you can be victorious or smashed by 50 points,” he said. “Our talent level has helped us from being frustrated because we know what we can be.”