Dec 15, 2013; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback EJ Manuel (3) throws the ball during the first half of the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

When the Buffalo Bills host the Miami Dolphins this week, they will be without quarterback E.J. Manuel, wide receiver Stevie Johnson and strong safety Aaron Williams.  Earlier in the week, head coach Doug Marrone had announced that Thad Lewis would be the starting quarterback in this game, but Manuel will not be a backup option at this point as he deals with a knee injury.

Marrone sounded confident that Manuel would be back and able to play against the New England Patriots in Foxboro the last game of the season.  The Bills are trying to find some sense of continuity with their offense and it has been difficult with the revolving door at a few different positions due to injuries.  Manuel has previously missed time with another knee injury suffered against the Cleveland Browns on Thursday Night Football.

The 8-6 Dolphins are unlikely to complain as they keep fighting for a playoff spot.  With the history of trouble they have had playing in Buffalo late in the year, they have enough to deal with in order to get an important win without having the Bills also be at full strength in the process.