The NFL is still pursuing sanctions against Brady for his alleged involvement in deflating footballs during last year’s playoff run.
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Though Watkins was hampered by an assortment of injuries during the first seven weeks of the season, the game against the Patriots marked the fourth time in the six full games he has played that Watkins has had four or fewer receptions and held under 50 yards. “That’s what we’re imparting on our players”.
And Brady had better stay off the injured list. The reality is that the defense has been able to pick up some of the slack.
Patriots Nation can let out a collective sigh of relief, as Danny Amendola isn’t expected to miss much time with a knee injury he suffered in Monday night’s win over the Bills. And the coach ruled out starting right guard John Miller (high left ankle sprain) and backup receiver Marcus Easley (concussion).
Obviously the most enjoyable sight is watching the Bills celebrate a victory, but of course, even with Brady not at his best, the Bills still lost to the Patriots as they nearly always do. But is that really the point? What do you see as the strengths and weaknesses of your defense? Williams did not return after being hurt in the second half.
Against winning teams it’s even more dramatic.
Unless otherwise noted, all advanced statistics obtained via Pro Football Focus. The end result was more of the same.
Ryan was less troubled about any personal slight than losing to his longtime nemesis for the 11th time in 15 games.
New England often shaded a safety over the top on Watkins.
The last meeting between the teams was in November of 2014 with the Patriots taking a 43-21 win in Foxboro. Third cornerback Justin Coleman won’t be active this week due to a wrist injury, and that means that Rashaan Melvin is the only other corner on the roster. Several of those were of the teeth-rattling variety, including one to the chin late in the game from defensive end Jerry Hughes, from which it appeared Brady needed a beat to recover. It was recipe for success, we definitely have something to build off of now.
On offense, serious props have to be given to rookie fouth-round guard Shaq Mason. Left tackle Nate Solder is out for the season with torn biceps.
But, then, the competition will be better, too.
On defense, cornerback Logan Ryan deserves a lot of credit. 500 mark on the season with the same 5 and 5 record as the Bills.
“We are going to do anything it takes to win the game, whether we have to run the ball or throw the ball, ” receiver Brandon LaFell said.
It was a mistake-filled game for the officials. He was one of two healthy receivers for the Patriots when Monday’s game ended.
The Pats next face the Broncos on Sunday night in Denver to try to keep their ideal season alive. “We need everybody every week, and he made some plays for us today”.
White will continue to get opportunities if he performs, as the Patriots are thin at running back behind LaGarrette Blount after Lewis’ season-ending injury.
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After years of faltering against tight ends, the Broncos are muzzling them this year.
