Didn't want to start a new thread but found this somewhat interesting: the last nine (9) touchdowns the Patriots have given up on defense have all been via the pass. The last rushing TD they gave up was to CJ Anderson to end the DEN game.
They've been susceptible of late against the pass, whether that's due to injuries, lack of depth, or both. CB3 Johnson has been hurting us badly, and L.Ryan has had 3 poor showings in a row with either McCourty on the sideline or playing hobbled. That potential return of Justin Coleman is far from the answer to our problems, however, although it would certainly help a good bit.
The biggest and most telling stat is the fact that our defense has only produced more than one turnover
once in the past 8 games/second half of the season. During that period, our offense gave up the same amount (9), so we didn't benefit in any way via positive ratio.
Another telling stat is that 4/8 past games have seen offensive yardage totals that would rank them at, or near, the bottom of the league. 422 to the NYG, 433 to DEN, 428 to the NYJ, and 438 to MIA. As we know, none of those occurred in garbage time, either.
Not taking anything away from the typical Belichick-coached defense, which has now finished in the top 10 in defensive scoring in 9/10 past seasons, because they deserve credit and praise in many ways. There have also been some glaring weaknesses that need to be addressed just the same.
