Bills president tells AP new grass field held up well despite a few divots in preseason opener

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — As expected with a new lawn, the field at Highmark Stadium required time for its roots to establish and for the foundation to fortify. Bills president Pete Guelli reassured reporters on Monday that the field's performance during the preseason opener against Carolina was satisfactory, despite some signs of wear and tear.

The grass field, installed by New Jersey-based Tuckahoe Turf Farms, has been under scrutiny for appearing gray and having divots before and after the game. However, Guelli explained that these issues are typical for a new field and will improve with time. The team will take the field again on Tuesday for a practice open to fans before hosting Pittsburgh in the preseason finale on Aug. 27. The field is made of Kentucky bluegrass and was installed 10 months ago.