Up
Buchanan – Has been exploding off of the LOS all night. Consistently a step ahead of everyone else, and had a lot to show for it. Best of all, he wasn’t just doing it against scrubs.
Bequette – I’ve hated this pick from day one, but Bequette has shown up in a big way. He set the edge perfectly on one play, allowing Harmon to get a TFL. On Buchanan’s sack, Bequette was at least partly responsible, as he came forcefully (and in control) off the edge, forcing the QB to step up into Buchanan’s arm. It’s a good example of the notion that sacks are rarely the result of one single player’s effort.
Boyce – Just on account of the long TD. The offense needs that element, and he brought it in the first half.
Thompkins – He was the go-to guy at the goal line. Has done a great job of beating press coverage, and the Pats need someone who can do that.
Down
Collins – Looked lost, a step slow - a lot of these rookies are spoiling us, so maybe it’s unfair to judge him at this point, but I’m expecting minimal contribution from him based on his contributions so far. Optimistically, maybe it’s because he’s playing out of position.
Cole – Didn’t turn around to attempt a play on that underthrown ball by Manning. Ended up being a ~35 yard completion. Had another notably bad play, as well as defending two passes especially well that I can recall (one on the first drive, another in the drive after Boyce’s touchdown).
Benard / Forston – Not liking the interior DL depth at all, but that’s hardly news at this point. I think we all realize that DT and CB are both positions of need on this team, and Benard and Forston didn’t do anything to dispel that notion.
Dobson – Mixed bag. Had a nice catch and run, but had a costly penalty and then bobbled a pretty easy catch that led to an interception.
