Aug. 17, 2008

 The Bills’ front office and game organizers were a little disheartened that there were roughly 5,000 empty seats at the Rogers Centre for the Buffalo-Pittsburgh matchup Thursday night. But they weren’t devastated. They realize that fan interest in preseason tilts can’t be expected to rival regular-season action, and there’s also the feeling that they were too overzealous with the price of tickets, which ranged from $70 to $575.

 Although the Patriots have pressing concerns at offensive tackle with Matt Light injured and Nick Kaczur a suspension possibility (related to his alleged involvement in a drug sting), we hear that recently acquired OL John Welbourn was primarily added to compete at guard. Welbourn has started at both tackle and guard in previous stints with the Eagles and Chiefs, but there’s concern that the 32-year-old’s lack of foot quickness would be a liability against speedy defensive ends.

 Dolphins CB Will Allen has had an outstanding training camp but drew the ire of coach Tony Sparano when he incited a brawl this week that lasted almost a minute. It’s one thing to be fired up and passionate, which Allen is aplenty, but Sparano has little tolerance for anyone who messes with the rhythm of his practices. Still, Allen is one of the most impressive defenders out there.