Week 8 Snapshot: Patriots Edge Out Rams

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It was really a solid game on both sides of the ball, but big plays almost cost the Patriots a victory.  With the win, and Buffalo’s loss, the Patriots sit at the top of the AFC east, tied with the Bills at 5-2.  Here were a few of my thoughts from the game:

• Great game from Matt Cassel.  He had two mistakes in the second half, but overall, looked really solid.  He seemed poised throughout, and looked confident throwing 8-13 yards over the middle of the field.
• Another solid showing from Kevin Faulk.  Interesting that Faulk is the only “holdover” on offense from Super Bowl XXXVI for the Patriots, and he showed up big today.  He carried the load on the ground, and made some big plays in the receiving game as usual.
• Matt Light got OWNED by Chris Long.  Twice.
• The big plays by Donnie Avery were a killer.  They sucked.  And while the Patriots have played solid overall defense, the big plays are really killing.
• Nice play by Deltha O’Neal to seal the game.  He had left earlier with a head injury.  On another note, if Hobbs is hurt badly, we will need some more help in the defensive backfield.
• Monster game from Adalius Thomas.  We needed that.
• The Patriots got a nice pass rush starting late in the first half.  They constantly brought their linebackers and safeties on blitzes; a counter to giving up the big plays.  Overall, it was a stategy that seemed to work.

Game Balls

Offense: Kevin Faulk, RB: 107 total yards, 60 rushing, 47 receiving.  He also made a terrific game winning touchdown reception.  Lastly, with the Patriots operating out of the gun much of the game, he made some nice blocks in pass protection.

Defense: Adalius Thomas, LB: He had two big sacks, both of which were momentum changers.  Thomas also caused a third sack, which was recorded by Richard Seymour.  Overall, he has been the Patriots’ most consistent pass rushing threat this year.