by Napoleon Broughton

Created on: September 12, 2009   Last Updated: September 14, 2009

Finally, it's football season, and Terrell Owens will be playing in Buffalo this year for a measly 6 million dollars. That's not too bad for a player with such a troubled past. This arrogant, coaches nightmare revelation, fellow teammate cynic, statistic wise potential hall of fame football player will embrace your television set again with another team. Haven't we all had enough? The fact is, the guy can still play the game well enough to garner a lucrative one year offer. His potential impact could manifest in several different forms. Buffalo Bills' fans are hopeful that this will be a positive enough manifestation where it will significantly impact their team? That's wishful thinking. Let's dig deeper.

To determine impact, we must first realize that the term is a matter of interpretation depending on who you talk to. History has shown that it takes several impact players with leadership qualities and positive attitudes to position a team for a playoff run or possibly a Super Bowl appearance. In watching Terrell Owens over the years, It's obvious he wants to win. He is one of the most competitive players that I have ever witnessed play the game. His past problems with inappropriate comments to fellow coaches and players are documented but really not worth mentioning. Terrell is brilliant at playing to the crowd. Terrell is brilliant at playing to the media. With the help of his agent, he is also brilliant at finding other teams to play for. That's his personality, and you will see those traits manifested again this year in Buffalo.

The Buffalo Bills are in a recession similar to that of our present economy. Buffalo has missed the playoffs for nine straight years. The last three seasons have ended with a 7-9 record. Terrell Owens impact won't be significant enough to ensure the Bills a playoff appearance. He's not God! You have to have several good players to accomplish that feat. He will also be playing with the worst starting quarterback he has seen his entire career. Buffalo's offense is also modestly conservative. Terrell will be lucky to surpass last years totals of catching 69 receptions. Again, his presence will not assist Buffalo with obtaining a playoff spot.

In realistic terms, Buffalo's acquisition of Terrell Owens is a mute point. Most observers expect this guy to fail. If impact is to be determined by a players possible misconduct on and off the field, Terrell Owens may again qualify this year. If impact will be determined by how much of a circus type atmosphere this guy will create, Terrell Owens will probably oblige. If impact is determined by a players overall skill level, Terrell's numbers will continue to subside given his age. In the end, Buffalo will be no different than previous stints with San Francisco, Philadelphia, and Dallas. Terrell Owens impact will be the same. He will give his all on the field. He will also give his all to make sure he receives attention from the media for spectacles that are obviously not news worthy. Who is being played here?

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