ANALYSIS: One area that stood out was how the Patriots were utilizing their nickel rushers more in the second half. Burgess played just five snaps in the first half, before playing 34 in the second. Banta-Cain played four first-half snaps and 23 in the second. It seemed like the Patriots wanted to get more pressure on Kyle Orton in the final 30 minutes, but the results weren't there. ... That also explains why Warren's playtime numbers were down as he primarily plays only in the base defense, only occasionally staying on the field in sub packages. ... Guyton remained the defensive signal-caller and had the communication device in his helmet. ... The Patriots played a base 4-3, while mixing in both nickel (5 defensive backs) and dime (6 defensive backs) packages. ... The 77 defensive snaps were a season-high (previous high was 70, vs. Baltimore). ... Thomas subbed out at times in the 4-3 and nickel packages, and isn't part of the dime, which contributed to his lower playtime total. ... Ninkovich played one series. ... Moss was on for the Hail Mary attempt at the end of the first half.
