Defense continues to be the foundation of this Patriots team
As offensive inconsistency continues to plague the Patriots, it has been the defense that has provided some stability. During Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals, it was the defense once again that kept the team in the game, even as the Tom Brady led offense could not get much done. Limiting QB Andy Dalton to 212 yards passing and the entire offense to just one touchdown, the effort by Matt Patricia's defense should be applauded.
Even without captain and All-Pro D-Lineman Vince Wilfork the Pats were able to keep the Bengals' running game in check while their passing game also struggled. When the Bengals did score their only touchdown, the Pats were able to stuff them on the goal-line on three straight plays before BenJarvus Green-Ellis was able to finally make it into the end zone on 4th down.
The running game did gain some momentum against the Patriots though, especially when DT Tommy Kelly unfortunately injured his knee. Even still, the bend-but-don't-break defense came through in the clutch once again, with Devon McCourty forcing a fumble on RB Giovani Bedard and the key stop with minutes left in the 4th quarter. On both of these drives the Bengals were trying to run down the clock and clinch the game. The Patriots defense gave their offense a chance but the offense just failed to get the job done.
As the offense continues to make headlines for the Patriots, whether it is criticism or praise, the defense has continues to be the foundation of this 4-1 team. Very high praise for a squad that has been considered to be the weakness of the Patriots since the dynasty era ended. Though injuries have been a concern, early word on Tommy Kelly is more positive, saying that the injury may not be major:
In a game that the Patriots did not necessarily need to win, it was fairly disappointing to see them perform the way they did. However, defensive play in the clutch and overall effort by Matt Patricia's squad against a dangerous and young Bengals offense should leave Pats fans with some optimism. If the offense can establish a more consistent performance level, this team could be a powerhouse.
Stats via NFL.com
Anthony Aidonidis
@aidonidis18
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| Jamie Sabau |
The running game did gain some momentum against the Patriots though, especially when DT Tommy Kelly unfortunately injured his knee. Even still, the bend-but-don't-break defense came through in the clutch once again, with Devon McCourty forcing a fumble on RB Giovani Bedard and the key stop with minutes left in the 4th quarter. On both of these drives the Bengals were trying to run down the clock and clinch the game. The Patriots defense gave their offense a chance but the offense just failed to get the job done.
As the offense continues to make headlines for the Patriots, whether it is criticism or praise, the defense has continues to be the foundation of this 4-1 team. Very high praise for a squad that has been considered to be the weakness of the Patriots since the dynasty era ended. Though injuries have been a concern, early word on Tommy Kelly is more positive, saying that the injury may not be major:
Early word on Kelly's knee is it's not believed to be anything serious.
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) October 6, 2013
In a game that the Patriots did not necessarily need to win, it was fairly disappointing to see them perform the way they did. However, defensive play in the clutch and overall effort by Matt Patricia's squad against a dangerous and young Bengals offense should leave Pats fans with some optimism. If the offense can establish a more consistent performance level, this team could be a powerhouse.
Stats via NFL.com
Anthony Aidonidis
@aidonidis18
