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Health & Fitness

How Change Has Been the Consistency for the Patriots' Defense.

Change.

It’s been the Patriots' theme in 2013 and no unit has felt its cruel impact more in-season than the defense. Take for example how the Patriots' 4-3 defense--their base defense to begin the year-- now allows almost 2 yards more per play than when top defenders Vince Wilfork, Tommy Kelly and Jerod Mayo were on the field.

Is change a cause for concern as we head into the playoffs? Um, hell yes.

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Without falling asleep to the sweet sound of statistics, we must at least consider a few numbers that prove change has been constant and concerning. According to ProFootballFocus.com, the Patriots' defense ranks hideously low (30th overall) in Adjusted Line Yards, which accounts for almost every ridiculous facet in a running game. 

So, in Boston layman terms, the Patriots' defensive line is wicked bad at stopping the opposing running game. Yet, their defense does rank higher (17th overall) in 2nd level yards and 4th overall in Open Field Yards.

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Yawn. So anyways. What does this all mean?

Basically, their defense gives up the singles, but not the home runs. They let running backs push the pile, but not dictate the pace of the game. Still, though, the former is not something we should ignore. After all, I'd rather my secondary covering receivers and tight ends and my linebackers setting the tone up front.

So what has New England done to fix the problem? They've tried to change by adapting.  

Recently, they swapped veteran nose tackle Issac Sopoaga with second year journeymen Sealver Siliga and placed him next to newcomer Chris Jones. Siliga accounted for nine tackles and one sack against the Bills in the season finale. Further, the Patriots have placed more faith in faster linebackers Jamie Collins and Dane Fletcher, the former accounting for a measly 14.2% playing time in early November.

Certainly not the most exciting news, but something we should watch. Belichick will place players not named Vince Wilfork or Jerod Mayo into situations that emphasize their strengths. I get that. He will also ensure each opponent faces a new defensive look. But trusting their assets more is an important, recent constant for the Patriots as they shift into playoff mode.

With mobile quarterbacks such as Andrew Luck, Andy Dalton and Alex Smith on the horizon, it is important to have a consistent group of starters who can set the edge, push the line and play disciplined. Although the defense has suffered due to unforeseen changes, Patriot Nation certainly hopes they've adapted enough to weather the storms ahead. 

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