New England Patriots: 5 observations from electric win over Chargers

The New England Patriots defense is showing progression

This shutout victory can only add to the confidence of the New England Patriots defensive unit.

Not only did Stephon Gilmore and veterans like Lawrence Guy and John Simon come through, Bill Belichick saw production out of his younger players.  Linebacker Terez Hall and safety Kyle Dugger were everywhere, and the team actually applied some pressure on rookie quarterback Justin Herbert.

While the Los Angeles Chargers did a lot to shoot themselves in the foot, they do have a pretty talent offense, so the Patriots defense does deserve credit in yielding a shutout.  As Belichick noted, the entire defensive unit is getting better by the week.

"“There is still plenty of room for improvement,” Belichick said.  ‘I’m not saying we are there yet or anything by any means, but we just do things better.  Our anticipation is better.  Our reactions are quicker and better.  That’s true in all phases of the game.  Definitely true on defense.”"

And speaking of reactions, it was good to see Chase Winovich snag his first career interception with a great reaction to a throw by Hebert at the start of the third quarter.  It was also good to see players like Josh Uche, Deatrich Wise and Adam Butler getting after and to the quarterback.

An overall great performance let’s see if the defensive unit as a hole can build on the confidence because they will need it with the high-scoring Los Angeles Rams next on the schedule.