The Buffalo Bills have played well in the first half of the AFC Wild Card Round against the Pittsburgh Steelers, but they have a serious injury that must be monitored. During a 49-yard field goal attempt in the second quarter, punter Sam Martin was the holder.
However, the kick was blocked by the Steelers’ special teams, and Martin pulled up toward the end of the play with an apparent hamstring injury. The Buffalo Bills have officially stated that Sam Martin is doubtful to return from a hamstring injury, but the team was never in a position to punt the ball for the remainder of the first half.
It will be interesting to see how coach Sean McDermott calls the second half if the team faces a punting situation, given kicker Tyler Bass has never punted. Martin, an 11-year veteran, has 51 punts with an average distance of 45.76 yards, a high of 70 yards, and 24 punts inside the 20. This will be a situation to keep an eye on in the second half of the game.
Who will the Buffalo Bills turn to if Sam Martin is ruled out?
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If the Buffalo Bills lose their punter for the rest of the game, it will be intriguing to see how the game unfolds. It’s possible that coach Sean McDermott may use a four-down offense until the team reaches field goal range. Even then, it can be tough because Sam Martin is the holder for field goals.
The Bills are currently ahead 21-7 at halftime, which may be something the club has to do in the second half. Martin was called on twice in the first half and punted 99 yards, both of which ended within the 20-yard line.
