The Patriots defense turned in another strong effort in Sunday’s win over the Steelers, allowing just 14 total points and shutting out Pittsburgh on their final two drives, giving New England’s offense the opportunity to close out the win, which they did.
Through two games, the Pats defense has shown they’ve evolved since a lackluster finish to 2021. Not only have they added speed at the second level, but they’re getting rejuvenated and even surprising performances from some of their long-time veterans. Steve Belichick and Jerod Mayo have done an excellent job rejiggering the attack and should continue to do so. With a number of new options to play with, we’re only scratching the surface of the defense’s potential.
What’s changed? Well, let’s start with Deatrich Wise. It might have surprised some when Wise signed a four-year deal last offseason, but now that deal looks like a smart one, as Wise’s play has elevated to a new level while he’s also earned the respect of his teammates with his first captaincy. The vet played 90 percent of the snaps against Pittsburgh, easily a team high as far as front seven defenders go, and was again a near-constant thorn in Pittsburgh’s side.
The defensive line has carried over their stout play from the summer, as they continue to consistently win the line of scrimmage with notable performances from Lawrence Guy, Davon Godchaux and Christian Barmore.
Mack Wilson is a new face whose play time dramatically increased this week, going from 35 percent of the defensive snaps to 64 percent, and he delivered with an athletic pass deflection that fell into the waiting arms of Jalen Mills for a key interception. Many were clamoring for improved speed at the second level and the Patriots have shown serious dedication to making it happen, often using Wilson with a member of their deep safety group as what were traditionally off-the-ball linebackers.
A corresponding move has been to experiment with both Ja’Whaun Bentley and Jahlani Tavai on the…
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