Patriots Talk: Reasons Why Team Will Win Super Bowl LI

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Dec 12, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Logan Ryan (26) during the second half against the Baltimore Ravens at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /

The Defense Can Play at an Elite Level

The Patriots defense played one of their best games on Monday against a team that had been rolling. They allowed 23 points, but 14 of those were given up on a short field following special teams fumbles.

After Cyrus Jones muffed on a punt, the Ravens were set up inside the five yard line. They recieved a short field on the next series as well after a Matthew Slater return fumble. So, if you take away those situations, the Ravens would have totalled just 9 points, all field goals. Malcolm Butler showed why he is the top corner on the team, and the line finally got some pressure up front.

The run defense was stellar most of the game, including Malcolm Brown stuffing Kenneth Dixon for a loss and a safety. The Ravens are not one of the top tier offenses in the NFL, but New England showed they can shut down a smart QB. Logan Ryan was also consistent over the course of the game, as he was in on a number of tackles and pass deflections.

The defense may be on the rise towards the tail end of the season, and that will be huge for the Patriots in the playoffs. The Raiders, Chiefs, Broncos, and Steelers are all likely playoff matchups in the AFC, and only Pittsburgh has a strong offense.

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