New England Patriots team grades vs Los Angeles Chargers
Check out our slideshow of the New England Patriots full team grades from their victory over the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 8.
The New England Patriots faced off with the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 8 and kept their winning streak going. The Patriots defeated the Chargers 21-13 at sloppy Gillette Stadium on Sunday afternoon, running their winning streak to four games. While their winning streak continued, the Chargers winning streak was snapped at three.
With the victory, the Patriots move their record to 6-2 on the season and 3-2 at home. The Chargers fall to 3-5 on the season and 2-2 on the road. This was the already the fourth time that the Chargers have lost by eight or fewer points this season, and sixth overall.
The weather seemed to have a real impact on the players. It was raining throughout the game, making for unfavorable conditions. The game was sloppy at times for both teams, but the Patriots found a way to pull out the victory.
Despite the tough conditions, there was only one turnover in the game; a Philip Rivers fumble, which was self-inflicted. The Patriots dominated the time of possession game, as they had the ball for 36:59 compared to 23:01 for the Chargers. That kept the Chargers potent offense on the sidelines, while the Patriots were able to control the clock and tempo.
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It wasn’t the prettiest game, but the Patriots coming away with the win is what matters. Their defense stepped up for a second consecutive week despite being shorthanded; four starters in Dont’a Hightower, Malcolm Brown, Stephon Gilmore and Eric Rowe sidelined. It took a team effort to replace those players and Bill Belichick received it.
There is some stuff to be worked on, but the Patriots have to be happy about going into the bye week with a 6-2 record. It will give them a chance to get healthy and work out some of the wrinkles they have.
However, before we get to the bye week, let’s take a look back at the game against the Chargers. Check out our slideshow handing out some team grades for the Patriots in their win over the Chargers.