### Bills Defense to Miss Key Players Against Seahawks, Including Linebacker Terrel Bernard

The Buffalo Bills will face a significant challenge on Sunday as they go up against the Seattle Seahawks without some of their key defensive players. Head Coach Sean McDermott confirmed that middle linebacker and team captain Terrel Bernard will be sidelined due to ankle and pectoral injuries. Bernard also dealt with personal issues this week but the injuries are the primary reason for his absence.

Bernard's pectoral injury has already caused him to miss two games this season, one of which was a substantial 35-10 defeat to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 4. Over the current season, he has accumulated 32 tackles (including 3 tackles for loss), one pass defensed, and one interception. His absence leaves the Bills' linebacker contingent severely undermanned, with third-year player Baylon Spector set to fill in for Bernard for the third time this year. This situation is exacerbated by the loss of Matt Milano, who is out for most of the season due to a torn bicep sustained during training camp.

Adding to the Bills' defensive woes, defensive tackle DeWayne Carter is out with a wrist injury, and pass rusher Von Miller is unavailable due to a suspension that concludes this week. Nonetheless, the Bills remain formidable, ranking 7th in points allowed and 9th in defensive DVOA according to FTN Fantasy. This means that despite the injuries, the Bills' defense still poses a considerable challenge.

Key defensive players such as Greg Rousseau, Ed Oliver, and A.J. Epenesa will need to step up to fill the void. Additionally, nickel corner Taron Johnson, recognized as one of the best in his position, will play a crucial role in their defensive strategy.

As the Seahawks prepare for this encounter, they will release their final injury report by early Friday afternoon, which will provide more clarity on their own lineup for the upcoming game.