Let's say we DO get into the playoffs...

[Rob0729]

the patriots defense is not horrible, their run defense is good. I rather have the patriots defense be horrible on 3rd downs and redzone, rather than be horrible on 1st downs, and 2nd downs.

The patriots do not want to play against the jets or the colts, because they can pass the ball, and the pats pass defense is not that great. It would be bad matching the pats weakness against the jets or colts strength.

If you are horrible on third downs and give up third and longs on a regular basis, who cares how well you do on first and second downs. If the Pats give up 3rd and 10s as easily as 3rd and 1s, the opposing teams can take a knee on the first two downs if they want.

 

[mesoslo]

well if the patriots are good on 1st, 2nd, and 3rd downs, they would be the steelers would they not?
and we wouldnt even be debating right now would we? but we are, so I rather be bad on 3rd downs than be bad on 1st and 2nd downs.