New England Patriots: Four Takeaways From Win Over Buffalo Bills
By Cyrus Geller
Oct 12, 2014; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Robert Woods (10) is tackled by New England Patriots free safety Devin McCourty (32) and outside linebacker Jamie Collins (91) during the 2nd half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Patriots beat the Bills 37-22. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
2. Front seven has solid outing
Coming into this matchup, the Patriots were already without Sealver Siliga, Dominique Easley, and Dont’a Hightower. All three of these guys are excellent in the run game, and made good contributions in the passing game as well.
But then one quarter into the game, New England lost their best linebacker, and their leader, Jerod Mayo. After number 51 went down, I was expecting the Bills to run roughshod over the Patriots’ depleted front seven. Buffalo has two extremely talented backs, who are each capable of going off for over 100 yards whenever they feel like it.
But that’s not what happened. Instead, Vince Wilfork and company stepped up, and made sure to win this one for Mayo. They held Buffalo to 68 rushing yards on 23 carries, and got to Kyle Orton four times. It was impressive to see this weakened group hold their own at the line of scrimmage, and make important tackle after important tackle.
With Mayo most likely done for the year, this unit must continue to step up like this all season long.