Joe Vellano post's -6.1 rating against the run

photo by the Associated Press

With Wilfork out, it is time for the rookies to step it up, and that is what they are trying to do. But on Sunday, the best wasn't good enough, not by a long shot. Rookie Defensive tackle Joe Vellano is a prime example. He posted a -6.1 grade against the run, a grade that proved costly to the Patriots in their 13-6 loss against the Bengals. One of the first plays that Velano faced was a handoff to Benjarvus Green-Ellis, and as we all saw, Vellano was pushed to the side, and Green-Ellis was gone for thirteen yards.

Sunday was Vellano's first official start in the National Football League, and he aims to get better after playing for Maryland for four years. In three games this season, he has rotated in with Wilfork and seen some snaps, but on Sunday he saw a season high 59 at defensive tackle.

I personally do not think that there is to much to worry about here, as Vellano is still young and he still has some things to learn. but that will all come with time and he will be fine in the long run. Just like everyone else, it takes some time to get used to the Patriots way, and with time he will be an ample replacement for Wilfork. I know that some, if not most of you think that what i am saying is nuts, but trust me, he shows that he has a desire to learn, and that he wants to correct his mistakes the very next play, not the very next game, which is something that the Patriots desperately need.