Colin Kaepernick faced boos in his first game of the season on the road in hostile territory Sunday, but some folks in Buffalo showed up to support the San Francisco quarterback and propagate his message about fighting nationwide racial injustice.
A crowd of protesters stood or knelt peacefully outside New Era Field in New York banging on drums or flashing signs clamoring for justice. Some of those hand-crafted posters read "Buffalo Supports Colin Kaepernick," "Protest is Patriotic," and "Take a Knee Against Police Brutality."
While the national anthem blared inside the stadium, several protesters outside dropped to one knee and raised their fists in silence. Those choosing to make a statement continued their demonstration by locking arms and exhibiting the wide array of signs while the NFL contest played out.
Inside the stadium, the tone seemed to turn the tables against Kaepernick and his social stance. One Buffalo fan sported a sign reading "Bills Fans — Proud Americans — We Respect Our Flag and Anthem." Others held "USA" letters above their heads and chanted that phrase before the national anthem.
While taking his first few snaps under center, the San Francisco quarterback was bombarded by a booing Buffalo fan base.
Kaepernick, who started the national anthem protest movement back in August to raise awareness about police brutality and racial tension, completed 13-of-29 passes for 187 yards and a touchdown in a 45-16 loss to the Bills. No. 7 added a team-high 66 yards on the ground in his first start under center in 2016.
San Francisco announced that Kaepernick would get the nod at the starting quarterback position last week after former signal caller Blaine Gabbert piloted the team to one win in five games.
