Cornerback Stephon Gilmore had played at a Defensive Player of the Year-like level throughout the first 16 weeks. His play provided a high level of confidence for the New England Patriots.
And then Gilmore had a bad day against a good receiver. Miami Dolphins receiver DeVante Parker caught eight passes for 137 yards in the Patriots stunning 27-24, Week 17 loss. Seven or those receptions and 119 of those yards came against Gilmore, via The Athletic’s Jeff Howe.
But that performance seemingly has not caused Patriots coach Bill Belichick’s confidence to waver.
“Yeah, Steph’s a very consistent player,” Belichick said during his press conference at Gillette Stadium on Thursday. “His performance, his preparation, his effort. So, I see the same thing from him week in and week out, day in and day out.”
It will be another challenge for Gilmore and the Patriots secondary this week going up against the Tennessee Titans on Saturday.
Led by quarterback Ryan Tannehill and receivers Corey Davis and A.J. Brown, the Titans were first in yards per pass attempt (9.64 yards) and fourth in scoring (30.4 points per game) since Tannehill took over Week 7.
Then again, Gilmore has put together a season worthy of DPOY honors as was tied for a league-lead in interceptions (six).
“He works hard,” Belichick said of Gilmore. “He always tries to do what’s best for the team. I think everybody has total respect for his commitment to the football team and his effort and dependability. Put me at the top of that list.”
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