The New England Patriots improved to 2-0 after a 43-0 drubbing of the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. Here are the grades for the Patriots defense.
Defensive Line
The Patriots defensive front led the way in holding Miami to just 42 rushing yards, while also tallying seven sacks on Miami quarterbacks Ryan Fitzpatrick and Josh Rosen.
Adam Butler, a situational inside rusher, jumped off the screen as a menace on passing downs, tallying two sacks. Michael Bennett also played fewer snaps than many would imagine, but added a sack himself.
Danny Shelton, who is known for pushing the pile as a run stuffer, also added a surprising sack.
This unit was flawless.
Grade: A+
Linebackers
Jamie Collins continues to impress in his second stint as a Patriot.
For the second straight week, the athletic linebacker leveled a running back in the backfield. Collins also added two interceptions — one returned for a touchdown — and a share of a sack. If he continues his play well into the season, he will be in the running for a spot on the All-Pro team.
John Simon and rookie Chase Winovich, who are stand-up edge rushers with somewhat similar skill sets, also combined for 2.5 sacks.
Don’t Hightower, Kyle Van Noy, Elandon Roberts and Ja’Whaun Bentley also helped shore up any running lanes for the Dolphins, while also pressuring Fitzpatrick (and Rosen) often.
Grade: A+
Defensive Backs
The deepest position group in perhaps the NFL continued it’s solid play in Miami.
Stephon Gilmore reasserted himself as the league’s best cornerback with a pick-six and another athletic tip that resulted in a Devin McCourty interception.
Jonathan Jones also delivered another solid performance. Jones is on the fast track to becoming a star. Like Collins, Jones may be a surprise All-Pro candidate this season.
Grade: A
