New England Patriots: Brian Flores continues to be a positive for Patriots

Brian Flores is the “unofficial” defensive coordinator for the New England Patriots, and in a quick period of time has garnered a lot of praise from his players.

Being the guy who has to replace Matt Patricia isn’t easy. The former New England Patriots defensive coordinator became a cult hero in New England, but so far Brian Flores has stepped up to the plate and seems to be beloved by his players.

Dont’a Hightower has spoken about his love for Flores before but talked about the defensive coordinator again on Thursday.

"“Coach is definitely different. I think guys are learning a lot better, a lot easier. A lot of young guys are stepping up and able to pick up for some of the older guys. It definitely works in our favor.”“Maybe it’s just the way that he teaches it,” Hightower said about Flores. “The way that the guys kind of absorb it a little bit different. We meet a little different, talk about things a little different. It’s just small quirky things that you can’t necessarily put a finger on, but it’s obvious whenever you can kind of have first-year guys come in or even guys who maybe got signed that can pick things up.”"

If Flores is as good as his players make him out to be, the Patriots may not give up a single point this season. Hightower has spoken before about how Flores has a more aggressive approach. I think this will suit this year’s defense.

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Will the Patriots finally have a top defense?

The Patriots are primed to have a great pass rush. They signed Adrian Clayborn who will be a beast on the edge, as will as Deatrich Wise, and Trey Flowers. It will be hard to gain yards as an opposing running back.

Then you add the fact that Hightower is returning, and the Patriots should have a solid front seven.

The Patriots defense will have a humongous chip on their shoulder this season. The last time we saw New England’s defense they were struggling to stop Nick Foles and the Philadelphia Eagles. If the Patriots defense performs like they did in February, Tom Brady will have to throw for 500 yards every game.

One of the main issues that the Patriots defense had last season was getting to the quarterback. Since they struggled so much, opposing quarterback’s had all the time in the world. The Patriots secondary can’t be perfect when the quarterback has 15 seconds to throw the ball.

We all know that the Patriots offense will show up when needed, but under Flores guidance, Bill Belichick may be able to rely on his defense the same way.