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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Jordy McElroy

New record under Bill Belichick proves Patriots defense is elite

This iteration of the New England Patriots may not be the team of destiny, but they’ve certainly been the team of defensive dominance, especially when they’re healthy.

The unit has totaled 50 sacks on the season, which is the most sacks ever by a Patriots defense under coach Bill Belichick.

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It’s a staggering statistic considering the team is currently sitting at 7-8 and one more loss away from seeing their playoff hopes go up in smoke. Defense has been the Patriots’ calling card throughout the season.

The unit has managed to help at certain points, but when it’s all said and done, it may not be able to save the team.

Matthew Judon is three sacks away from surpassing legendary Patriots linebacker Andre Tippett for most sacks in franchise history.

He has 15.5 sacks on the season, while Josh Uche has exploded with 11.5 sacks. The duo has arguably been the best pass-rushing tandem in the NFL this season. One can only imagine how good the team would have been if the offense held up its end in a year where the defense has clearly been Super Bowl caliber.

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