New England Patriots team grades vs Los Angeles Chargers

The Patriots special teams were very good for the most part against the Chargers. It was a big part of the Patriots getting the victory, but also a reason for the game being as close as it was.

First, the positives. Punter Ryan Allen had an excellent game. All three of his punts were inside the 20-yard line, giving the Chargers a long field to work with. The coverage teams were good, forcing Benjamin into a boneheaded play as he retreated back into the end zone for a safety on one of the punts.

Danny Amendola was solid in the return game, going for 24 yards on four punt returns and 18 yards on his lone kickoff return. Dion Lewis had a huge kickoff return, going for 71 yards for his long.

Stephen Gostkowski was called upon six times and made four of his attempts. That kept the Chargers in the game, but they were unable to capitalize on the opportunities. Gostkowski has now missed three kicks in the past three games, but he did knock through his only point after attempt.

Next: Patriots Defense Steps Up Against Chargers

Those missed field goals did not hurt the Patriots, but you can be sure Bill Belichick was not happy about leaving points on the board.