New England Patriots: Belichick’s defense is a special kind of dominant
The New England Patriots defense continues to suffocate opponents by tossing a shutout in Miami against the Dolphins.
The New England Patriots seemed to overcome their “South Beach Blues” in a 43-0 throttling of their AFC East division rival Miami Dolphins. A victory fueled by their amazing defense.
The Pats are known for their woes when playing in Miami, going 1-5 in their last 6 visits. Including the heartbreaking loss last season coming as a result of Kenyan Drake‘s 68-yard last-second touchdown known as the “Miami Miracle.” But Sunday’s game was an entirely different story.
They smothered Miami’s offense all day long, holding Miami quarterbacks Ryan Fitzpatrick and Josh Rosen to a combined 18/39 (46 percent) for 142 yards and a total 20.8 passer rating, adding 7 sacks and 4 interceptions, two of which were returned for touchdowns in the fourth quarter.
More from New England Patriots
- Former Patriot Stevan Ridley Put Kevin Hart in a Wheelchair
- 3 Patriots Who Can Clinch a Roster Spot in Final Preseason Game
- Patriots Get Win Over Division Rivals Before Season Even Begins
- New Massachusetts Sportsbook Promos: $450 Bonus to Bet on Your Patriots at Caesars + DraftKings
- Ezekiel Elliott Reveals 3 Reasons Why He Signed With Patriots
A standout performance came from star cornerback Stephon Gilmore who is continuing to cement himself as one of, if not the best corner in football. He recorded 3 pass breakups and an interception, which he returned for a touchdown, the first pick-six of his career.
Per NFL Next Gen Stats, when Gilmore was the closest in proximity to the intended receiver, Miami was 1-7 for 15 yards and the aforementioned interception.
Another highlight from this win was Jamie Collins Sr.. Originally drafted by New England in 2013, and spent some time in Cleveland from 2016-18, Collins had his first big performance since returning to the fold. He went on to tally 5 total tackles (1.5 for loss), 2 pass breakups, and picked off both Fitzpatrick and Rosen in the fourth quarter alone, the former which he returned for a touchdown.
Young members of the front seven got in on the fun as well. Third-year defensive tackle Adam Butler would record two sacks, with rookie pass rusher Chase Winovich adding 1.5 sacks, as well.
Miami was also only able to convert 2-of-15 (13 percent) of third-down attempts. One astonishing statistic from this match-up: The New England Patriots had 128 interception return yards while the Dolphins had 184 yards of total offense, which it by itself shows how good this defense can be all season long.
Next. New England Patriots: 5 observations from mauling of Miami Dolphins. dark
This unit may be the best under Bill Belichick’s tenure, and may not even be in mid-season form yet. Only time will tell.
New England looks to improve to 3-0 next week when they host Le’Veon Bell and the New York Jets next Sunday.