In fact, it could be argued that the Patriots’ run defense has been as good as any in football this season, as it’s yielding just 3.5 yards per carry, the best figure in the NFL. From a yards per game standpoint, the Patriots check-in 8th at 88.6, an outstanding total that is nearly 30 yards per game better than the run defense allowed in 2011. Beyond the yards allowed, the Patriots have minimized both big plays and touchdowns. They join just the Texans as the only defenses to have not allowed a run over 20 yards this season, and the Patriots have given up just three rushing touchdowns through eight games. Couple those facts with an NFL-best seven forced fumbles and four fumbles recovered, and it’s clear that this group has been a difference-maker for the Patriots in 2012.