Security changes greet Bills fans

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (WIVB) - There was a large police presence Thursday night around Ralph Wilson Stadium where some new rules were waiting for fans headed to the first pre-season game of the season.

There was plenty of excitement and enthusiasm as Buffalo Bills fans headed to the stadium, even if it's only a pre-season game.

Zach Daniel said, "We've got Kyle Williams, Mario Williams, Marcell Dareus. We got Shawn Merriman. We're good to go! If we stay healthy, we're good this year."

The Bills were defending their home turf against the Washington Redskins. The guards at the gate defended fans from security threats, using handheld metal detectors as part of a new procedure.

MORE | You can see all the changes to the rules at the Ralph for this season right here

One fan said, "If it's for our safety, it's fine."

But Marlana Howard countered, "I don't like it. The lines have been excessive to get in the stadium. I already missed a play."

Indeed, the new security measures at the Ralph did cause longer lines, but fans are being warned to come 90 minutes prior to kickoff to avoid getting caught in the corrals. Parking lots opened at 3 p.m. on Thursday with the game set to begin at 7 p.m.

MORE | Find out who won the pre-season opener and see photos from the game here

Deputies made their rounds as the Bills urged their fans tailgating to "Make Mom Proud" and behave.

Joe Gargano said, "It was a good night to come out. Nice weather. Should be a quiet crowd. A drunken, rowdy crowd's kind of bad for kids."

The pre-season game is just one day after Senator Charles Schumer urged the NFL to change a loan program to give the team access to millions for stadium renovations, keeping the Bills in Buffalo.

Jessica Hanitz said, "We have a lot of fans here and everyone supports them, no matter what. The most important thing is the fans."