The Patriots' performance on special teams played a major factor in Sunday's win over the Jets as the Patriots dominated in the battle for field position.
“I think just in terms of managing the game it's a lot easier to move the ball 50 yards or sometimes 15 yards into scoring position than it is to move it 60,” Patriots coach Bill Belichicktold the Boston Globe.
Randy Moss' leadership is also a hot topic. The first-year captain helped guide Matt Casselthrough his first NFL start.
"Once you get voted captain by your teammates, it makes you understand how your teammates feel about you, and you tend to feel like you have to step up sometimes as a person," running back Kevin Faulktold the Boston Herald.
The Patriots also benefited from the performance of their running backs. They had all five at their disposal for the first time this season, which helped them keep fresh legs on the field at all times.
“We had a lot of backs who all contributed,” Belichick said told the Providence Journal.
The victory helped the Patriots silence those who doubted their ability to win without Tom Brady.
“We just have to take care of what we have to take care of,” nose tackle Vince Wilforktold the Worcester Telegram & Gazette.
Sunday's win also proved the Patriots are the ultimate team. They don't just rely on one player.
“We're going to continue to take our lunchpail, fill it up, go to work,” Patriots safety Rodney Harrisontold the New Bedford Standard-Times.
Harrison also spoke about the Patriots' red-zone defense, which has come up with two key stops in as many weeks.
“A lot of times that's where you win or lose ball games is in the red zone,” Harrison told the Standard-Times.
Cassel's performance shouldn't go unnoticed. The inexperienced backup stepped in and played well Sunday despite not starting a game since high school.
“He was enthusiastic. He was vocal. That's what you need out of your quarterback,” fullback Heath Evanstold the MetroWest Daily News.
“I think he did a great job,” tight end David Thomastold the Quincy Patriot Ledger.
Quick hits
The Miami Dolphins remained winless following Sunday's loss to Arizona and are now preparing to travel to New England to face the unbeaten Patriots.
Dolphins head coach Tony Sparano says Chad Pennington will start at quarterback despite being pulled late in Sunday's loss to the Cardinals.
"It's natural that a quarterback, when you're trying to get off to a good start, probably tries to do a little [too] much," Sparano told the Miami Herald.
The Dolphins are also sticking with their plan in the secondary despite getting torched for 31 points by Arizona.
"I don't want to overreact or panic," Sparano told the Florida Sun-Sentinel.
