There are three things that the Patriots need to do if they plan on hosting another playoff game next weekend.
STOP GROUND GAME- Defensively, the Patriots' plan should be to force Mariota to beat them in the air. The fact that he really struggles with accuracy, yet can scramble with the best of them should mean that Patricia is planning to focus on stopping the run. With DeMarco Murray out of the lineup, stopping the run becomes a lot easier. With Mariota being able run, containing him in the pocket and being happy with incomplete passes and maybe getting a coverage sack or should be the goal. While it might not be sexy, back to back rings are.
KEEP AWAY FROM BYARD- Offensively, the Patriots should be able to move the ball and put up points on every possession. Other than the usual "do your job" mentality, not throwing the ball in Kevin Byard's (mouthy rookie with 8 picks) direction is probably a good plan.
SOLID THIRD PHASE- The final key to a Patriots victory is not imploding on special teams. Year in and year out the Patriots are always strong with their special teams. This year has been no different.
SOLID THIRD PHASE- The final key to a Patriots victory is not imploding on special teams. Year in and year out the Patriots are always strong with their special teams. This year has been no different.
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