Patriots defense steps up in win over Broncos

The New England Patriots defense was able to stop Peyton Manning just enough and at the right times in order to take control of the game tonight to beat the Broncos 43-21 in Foxboro. The storyline of this game was the Broncos only converting 3 out 11 attempts and going 0 for 4 on fourth down attempts.

The Patriots defense was able to be aggressive and attack Manning on third down, as many times the Broncos were facing long third downs and desperate fourth downs. The Broncos were unable to run the ball effectively on first down and unable to make plays on second down, and were left in long third downs that were unmanageable.

The surprising part of this game was the Patriots rush defense holding the Broncos to only 43 total rushing yards in this game. Donta Hightower totaled six tackels in a solid defensive performance, as he continues to improve week to week.

With Revis locking down one side of the field, and Bronwer manning the other side the defense was able to contain Demaryius and Julius Thomas, the rest of the defense was able to get exotic and attempt to confuse Peyton Manning (look at Ninkovich's interception). The emergence of Patrick Chung solidifying the other safety position is a huge upgrade to the safety position, where the Patriots have been searching for that impact player opposite McCourty.

Akeem Ayers had a solid game against a tough quarterback for opposing pass rushers. He was able to get a sack on Manning and was pressuring him out of the pocket on many third down plays.

WIth the increased play from Chung, Ayers and Browner, the defense is rounding out to be an intimidating defensive unit. The rush defense has improved significantly and the secondary continues to look impressive against stiff competition.

What did you think gave the Patriots the advantage?


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