Three-point stance: Pats at the bye – New England Patriots Blog – ESPN Boston

Interesting quote below but let’s remember Talib hasn’t played all that much in the last two games. I think his addition has enabled them to do some new things, but I wouldn’t say he and Dennard have been the defensive saviors. What I don’t get is why they can’t be this aggressive from the get-go?

New England’s aggressive defensive play calling has paid off. Week 17’s win against Miami marked New England’s fourth straight game with an interception using added pressure. Since Aqib Talib joined the Patriots in Week 11, they have sent five or more pass rushers on 35.1 percent of dropbacks. That number has jumped from 15.0 percent over the first nine weeks of the season, the most conservative number in the league. When healthy, Talib and rookie Alfonzo Dennard have provided quality cornerback play and enabled New England to commit extra pass rushers. Since the Talib addition, the Patriots have allowed opposing quarterbacks a 51.1 completion percentage, three touchdowns and five interceptions with at least five rushers (73.6 completion percentage, four touchdowns and no interceptions in first nine games).