Dan Orlovsky, a former NFL quarterback and current ESPN commentator, has made a bold statement regarding the New England Patriots. He suggested that the Houston Texans could have secured a victory against the Patriots with any quarterback except for C.J. Stroud. This assertion has sparked discussions, particularly given the strength of the Patriots’ defense.
Patriots’ Defense Dominates
The Patriots’ defense has performed impressively during the playoffs. In the wild-card round, they limited the Los Angeles Chargers and their quarterback, Justin Herbert, to just three points and 207 total yards. This defensive effort showcased the Patriots’ ability to control the game and secure critical turnovers.
- They forced five turnovers against the Texans.
- Stroud was intercepted four times during the match.
Despite Orlovsky’s comments, the Patriots’ defense has received little recognition in the national media. This unit ranked among the top-five defenses in the NFL earlier in the season, despite struggling with injuries later on. As key players returned, the defense regained its dominance.
Key Performances
The Patriots’ defense has had notable successes against strong opponents. For example, they contained Buffalo Bills’ quarterback Josh Allen in Week 5, restricting running back James Cook to under 50 yards rushing. According to Patriots’ wide receiver Stefon Diggs, the team plays better when they are underestimated.
- “We’re playing with a chip on our shoulder,” Diggs stated.
- He acknowledged that many commentators had predicted a Houston win.
As the Patriots prepare for the AFC Championship Game against the Denver Broncos, they are determined to capitalize on their recent momentum. The team’s defensive prowess stands as a critical factor in their playoff success. The clash in Mile High promises to be intense as the Patriots aim to continue their journey towards the Super Bowl.
