New England Patriots: Grading Position Groups Bills’ Game

Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports

Special Teams

Grade: A

Although Stephen Gostkowski misses his first field goal of the season, the Patriots special teams is still the best special teams unit in football. Despite the miss, Gostkowski still nailed two field goals in the game. Ryan Allen was able to pin Buffalo inside their own 20 multiple times.

The kickoff coverage remains stout, as most kicks that are returned end usually end up inside the 20 yard line. Not only that, but special teamer Brandon King was able to force a fumble on a punt, which was then recovered (and then fumbled, although the Patriots maintained possession) by Jonathan Freeny.

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While the Patriots only managed a field goal out of it, the Patriots stretched the lead from 17-10 to 20-10. The Bills could have potentially tied it at that point, and the Patriots offense was really struggling to move the ball. It gave them the cushion they needed for the victory.