Ed Oliver's return is potential game-changing boost for Bills defense

The Buffalo Bills are getting some big help for their AFC divisional playoff game against the Denver Broncos on Saturday. Defensive tackle Ed Oliver is expected to make his return to the lineup after he was activated from injured reserve on Friday, giving the Bills one of their most impactful defensive players back at just the right time.

Ed Oliver's return is huge boost for Bills defense

Oliver has been sidelined since late October due to a biceps injury and also missed time earlier in the season due to an ankle injury. Overall, he has played in just three games this season, adding to the injury issues the Bills defense — and especially their defensive line — have been dealing with all season.

In his three games, he has three sacks, a forced fumble and seven tackles for loss. That is big production in just three games, and the Bills have certainly missed his presence over the past few months.

Buffalo's defense has been hit-and-miss this season, and especially against the run, where it ranked 28th in allowing 136.2 yards per game. They allowed 154 yards on the ground against the Jacksonville Jaguars a week ago in their first playoff game. Those defensive issues are one of the biggest reasons they lost six games during the regular season and will have to play entirely on the road in the playoffs.