Updating base vs. sub defense stats

That puts the seven-game total at 54.9 percent in sub packages (298 of 542, including penalties). These numbers are actually lower than anticipated at the halfway point. In 2011, the Patriots were in sub more than 60 percent of the time, but the last three games have trended toward the Patriots playing more base.

Given that the new 4-3 features more athleticism I’m not surprised the numbers are skewing more toward the base defense this year. That’s by design to help stop the pass over every down.