Bills head coach Doug Marrone announced on Tuesday that starting quarterback EJ Manuel has been ruled out of Sunday’s matchup against the Dolphins (8-6). Thad Lewis will take the place of the rookie signal caller who is sidelined with a sprained LCL in his right knee.
Reports broke Monday that Manuel had suffered a minor knee injury in Sunday’s win over the Jaguars, and was still expected to play this Sunday.
If there are any questions revolving around Manuel’s status for Week 17 against the Patriots, Marrone had this to say Tuesday:
Marrone on EJ Manuel: “I am 110% confident that he will play against New England”
— Buffalo Bills (@buffalobills) December 18, 2013
Forecasters are calling for sleet like conditions with a 98% chance of precipitation Sunday as the Bills (5-9) will host the Dolphins in Orchard Park. Buffalo defeated Miami 23-21 in October at Sun-Life Stadium-with undrafted free agent Thad Lewis under center.
Thad Lewis: "That's what football is about: one man goes down, another steps up"
— Buffalo Bills (@buffalobills) December 18, 2013
Lewis and co. will attempt to defeat a Dolphins team that is fighting for their first playoff appearance since a 2008 Wildcard loss in Baltimore.
