The Patriots received some coal In their stocks Sunday. The team suffered its second consecutive loss at the hands of the Buffalo Bills. Two weeks ago, the Patriots defeated Buffalo. With that loss, they fall to 9-6. Overall, the club failed in all three facets of the game. In this post, we will review three ways the team needs to improve going forward.
Stronger Defensive Stands
The Patriots kept the score close. They just could not capitalize on missed opportunities. Cornerback JC Jackson whiffed on an interception. reserve corner, Myles Bryant played a horrible game. Bills, receiver Isaiah had a career game catching eleven passes. The most he’s ever caught is seven.
Backs Devin Singletary and Zach Moss ran straight through the defensive line. Wideout Stephon Diggs had a huge day ripping apart the secondary. But the real story belonged to quarterback Josh Allen. Allen came to Foxborough with his bag of tricks. For the most part, the Patriots could not stop him.
Eliminate Foolish Penalties
Costly penalties hurt New England Sunday. Christian Barmore got charged with encroachment. David Andrews was flagged for unsportsmanlike. Calls like this helped Buffalo Sunday the Patriots committed eight penalties.
As we have seen in recent years, the Patriots continue to make adjustments. The playoffs are three weeks away. Things need to change.
Receivers Need To get Open
Mac Jones had a long afternoon. His total numbers were 14/32 145 yards passing. Clearly his worst day of the season. Compared to the Saints loss, a 55 % passer rating vs 34 % Sunday against Buffalo. Jones needs receivers open.
Against the Bills, Nelson Agholor was out. That left N Keal Harry, Gunner Olszewski, and Kendrick Bourne. Tight Ends Hunter Renfroe and Jonnu Smith were non _existent. Basically, he had no one to throw to..
Any chance of winning in post _season Jones needs receivers to be open.
Conclusion
Sunday, was the worst played game of the season. Everything from coaching to the defense needs to get better. Blaming Mac Jones is easy. trying, to get him receivers that can get open is another story.