Bills fans ready for regular season as opener approaches

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- Fans came out in full support on Saturday night as the Buffalo Bills took on the Pittsburgh Steelers in each team's second preseason game of the season.

Even after the 33-6 loss in the preseason opener to the Chicago Bears, Bills fans are hopeful the team can bounce back as the regular season approaches. Staff at Southern Tier Brewery in downtown Buffalo said they were excited to have Bills Mafia back in its establishment every week.

"We have a giant screen where everyone gets to watch everything," said Joseph Creegan, general manager at Souther Tier Brewing Co. "We got the shout song ready to go, goal lights hitting everything. We like to say we bring a little bit of a tailgate feel."

Several Bills fans were at the Southern Tier Brewery to watch Saturday's game. One fan traveled all the way to Buffalo from Las Vegas. He told WIVB News 4 he's been a Bills fan for over 30 years.

"The rest of the family were Raider fans, and I just didn't like the vibe," said Hugo Partida. "I'm a blue-collar worker myself and that's all I used to hear in the 90's. Blue-collar, hardworking, dedication, I'm all about that."

Just a few days ago, star linebacker Matt Milano suffered a biceps injury, which will likely keep him on the sidelines indefinitely. Fans said losing Milano is a bit of a concern, but they hope to see some improvements made on the offensive side.

"I was so looking forward to seeing him back. He was probably my favorite player on defense," said Buffalo resident Al Raclawski. "Wide receivers, I think we're pretty set, but I'd like to see a true number one emerge from that group."

Although it's only the preseason, Bills Mafia is confident this could be the year they finally win it all.

"I love the team no matter what they do. I'll follow them," Partida said. "I have a saying that I'm a Bills fan all day, every day, until the end of my days. So, with that being said, go Bills!"

The Bills host the Carolina Panthers at 1 p.m. Saturday in their final preseason game.