PFF/Palazzolo: Re-Focused Patriots vs. Giants
Interesting stuff as always from PFF. Here’s a nugget:
The Patriots are not known for an explosive pass rush off the edge, but the defensive ends came through on Sunday. DE Andre Carter (+2.1) led the way and continued his pace as New England’s best defender in 2011. He picked up three QB Hits and five Hurries on only 35 rushes, and his pressure on Manning forced an interception in the end zone. Carter wasn’t alone as LB Rob Ninkovich (+1.7 Rush) and DE Mark Anderson (+2.0 Rush) contributed as DEs in the Nickel package. Anderson also made an outstanding play, swatting a Manning pass while dropping into coverage on a rare zone blitz from New England. In a season of inconsistency, if New England can get the edge rushers to produce at the same time the DTs are pushing the pocket, they may have a chance to protect their young, inexperienced secondary.
