Bills vs. Steelers: 3 things to watch

On Saturday afternoon, the Buffalo Bills are playing host to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3 of the NFL preseason. This is actually the fourth preseason game for the Steelers, who kicked off the season in a loss against the Minnesota Vikings in the Hall of Fame Game.

Next: Ranking The 32 NFL Offenses For 2015

Typically speaking, this is the most important week in the exhibition schedule. Both of these teams have plenty to sort out, so this contest will be a pretty solid indicator of what to watch for come the regular season. In the meantime, check out these three topics:

1. Buffalo quarterbacks

In the first game, Matt Cassel was given the start. The following week, Tyrod Taylor got the nod. This week, 2013 first-round pick EJ Manuel is getting his chance. Head coach Rex Ryan has not named a starter for the regular season yet, so Manuel has a chance. However, it is worth noting that Manuel has been getting reps with the second and third teams throughout training camp. For him to win the job, he would really have to light it up.

2. Pittsburgh’s offensive depth

The Steelers are going to have all kinds of problems early in the season when it comes to offense beyond Antonio Brown. All-Pro running back Le’Veon Bell is suspended for the first two games of the year while receiver Martavis Bryant is banned for the first four, both for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. In addition, All-Pro center Maurkice Pouncey broke his ankle and is at least out two months. Can Pittsburgh find some playmakers in reserve?

3. Michael Vick experience

Vick was signed by the Steelers last week after backup quarterback Bruce Gradkowski went down with an injury. Vick played sparingly – and poorly – last season for the New York Jets, but suddenly finds himself one Roethlisberger injury away from playing on a contender. How does Vick look in his first action for the Steelers?