Originally Posted by Rob0729

Anyone actually surprised? In recent weeks before the game, the Bears' offense has shown signs of marked improvement because of the legs of Forte not the arm of Cutler. Of course the Pats were going to stop the run and force Cutler to throw because they knew if they asked Cutler to win the game, he would make mistakes.

As for Meriweather, I wouldn't read too much into his playing time for this week. It is clear they had their best run defenders on the field for most of the time. If we see a continuing trend, then we can read into it. The Patriots are about gearing their team to the opposition. They would sit Wilfork, Mayo, and McCourty if they thought that other players for a particular game gave them a better chance of winning.

Originally Posted by JoeShmoe

also

CB Kyle Arrington -- 44 of 45

shows how much he's improved week on week, he's been excellent the last 2 games

Originally Posted by The Dynasty

45 defense snaps is pretty good too. Good 3rd down play and the turnovers helped with that. Wilfork has shown that he can be a 3 down lineman as well. Sanders quietly has had a very very good season.

Originally Posted by jmt57

Yeah, that's the biggest stat that jumped out at me. A defense is typically on the field for what, about 65-75 snaps per game? Only have to be out there for 45 plays is great work.