First, we should all thank DI for starting a rational discussion.
We played one of the best running games in the NFL. Reid/Childress and the others had one of the best game plans ever, with play-calling to match. There were plays that Tirico gads never seven seen.
MOST SERIOUS PROBLEMS - COACHING, COACHING AND COACHING
How would YOU defense a team with 2 top runners, one of who is one of the very best in the game, especially with their 3rd down back out? What would YOU try to take away? A novice like me might focus on taking away the run. I would rarely be in nickel, especially when KC was ahead a trying to eat up the clock. It seemed as if KC coaches had written the game plan they wanted to play against.
And just BTW, why were so many defenders out of place, faked out of their shorts, and actually falling down without being hit. The defensive front was unprepared for what KC had to give.
IMHO, I think that this set of talent would have done much, much better if there had been a better game plan and better coaching during the game, and better adjustments.
This is the very worst coached patriot defensive games I've seen in this century.
TALENT
First, the defensive front talent is better than last year when we were a 10 ten defense in points allowed. Sure I'd prefer more depth at DE and LB, but we are better.
Compared to last year, the DL has added Wilfork and Easley. This week, we lost Siliga and replaced him with another UDFA wide body. We should be even more improved as Easley developed. Compared to last year, we have added Mayo and Skinner & lost Spikes and Fletcher. Personally, I think that this is a net plus. Obviosuly, we could tweak the backup LB position, as has already been done.
DEFENSIVE BACKFIELD
Our talent is much better. It will even be more improved when we add Browner. I mention the DB's for context. The DL is playing with better defensive backs. They even have LB and dime help from Arrington and Ebner.