Patriots Defense shows Flashes,Faces Challenges in Week 7 Loss to Bills
FOXBOROUGH,MA – Despite a competitive showing,the New England Patriots defense struggled to contain Buffalo Bills tight end Dalton Kincaid and faced costly penalties during their Week 7 matchup against the Bills,ultimately contributing to a loss. while individual players demonstrated positive contributions, inconsistencies in coverage and run defense remain areas for enhancement as the Patriots navigate a challenging season.
The Bills’ offense exploited vulnerabilities in the Patriots’ defensive scheme, notably through Kincaid, who finished with six receptions for 108 yards. Safeties Jaylinn Hawkins and Craig Woodson were both beaten on in-breaking routes by Kincaid in man coverage, with Hawkins allowing a 20-yard reception on an extended play. Kincaid also gained 53 yards against zone coverage, highlighting a broader issue for the Patriots in defending pass-catching tight ends. Hawkins did contribute with a run stuff, half-sack, and fumble recovery, while Woodson added a run stuff and showcased play speed and physicality in run support, though he requires further development in coverage technique and instincts.
Defensive tackles Joshua Farmer and Cory Durden committed personal fouls on the Bills’ fourth-quarter touchdown drive, gifting Buffalo 30 of its 76 yards. Brenden Schooler was also flagged for a personal foul on a late hit.
With edge-rusher Keion White sidelined due to an elbow injury, undrafted rookie Elijah Ponder saw increased playing time alongside veteran Anfernee Jennings. Ponder lost contain on an 8-yard Josh Allen scramble and was credited with one hurry in seven pass-rush snaps.
The Patriots’ edge rush mechanics against the run are evolving, with rushers slanting inside to penetrate the backfield while linebackers loop around to replace them on the outside - a departure from the previous system focused on setting a sturdy edge. this new approach has yielded mixed results in recent weeks.
Individual Performance Stats:
* QB Pressures: Davon Godchaux (5), Matthew Judon (3.5), Christian Barmore (2), Cory Durden (2), Lawrence Guy (2), Joshua Farmer (1), Elijah Ponder (1), Jaylinn Hawkins (1), Anfernee Jennings (1).
* Run Stuffs: Daniel ekuale (2), Ja’Whaun Bentley (2), mack Wilson (2), Joshua Farmer (1), Craig Woodson (1), Keion White (1), Matthew Judon (1), Jahlani Tavai (1), Chris Williamson (1).
* Coverage: Mack Wilson (6/5/59 yards), Myles Bryant (7/5/48 yards/INT/PBU), Jaylinn Hawkins (4/4/43 yards/TD), Jonathan Jones (5/4/42 yards/TD), Jalen Mills (4/1/23 yards/PBU), Matthew judon (1/1/17 yards), Craig Woodson (1/1/15 yards), Marte Mapu (1/1/6 yards), Marcus jones (DPI).
