Mike Dussault

In Sunday’s 34-31 overtime win over the Denver Broncos, the Patriots played a sub defense (mostly a nickel) for all 90 snaps. This was a contrast from the prior week against the Carolina Panthers, when the team played a high total of snaps in base defense (42 of 58 snaps, including penalties, 72.4 percent). The reason is obvious: The Patriots were most concerned with the Broncos’ passing attack.

https://www.patspropaganda.com/in-sundays-34-31-overtime-win-over-the-denver/

There is no doubt that the interior of the Patriots’ offensive line has been the weak spot of the offense in 2013. Center Ryan Wendell and right guard Dan Connolly (-6.6) have both regressed since 2012. Wendell’s -9.1 pass blocking grade is the second worst of any center, though he seems to have improved his once excellent run blocking in recent weeks. Both of these players will need to bring their ‘A’ game this week against JJ Watt, who may be the best player in the NFL.

https://www.patspropaganda.com/there-is-no-doubt-that-the-interior-of-the/

This week should give Aqib Talib another opportunity to test his mettle against one of the league’s better wide receivers. Andre Johnson may not have the weaponry around him or a top-flight quarterback to get him the ball, but even at the age of 32 he continues to be one of the more productive receivers in the league. Johnson has accumulated 1,002 yards and scored five touchdowns this in an offense where no other player has caught more than 40 passes. Talib has fared well against the opposition’s top option, but he’s battling a hip injury and will need to be something close to full strength to keep it going this week.

https://www.patspropaganda.com/this-week-should-give-aqib-talib-another/