Image Source: Brian Hines
Key Takeaways
- The New England Patriots won their playoff opener against the Los Angeles Chargers with a final score of 16-3
- DT Milton Williams and ED K’Lavon Chaisson led the Patriots’ pass rush, combining for four sacks and several quarterback pressures
- CB Christian Gonzalez played like an All-Pro in his playoff debut, not allowing a reception on five targets, but was ruled out with a head injury
- RB Rhamondre Stevenson continued his strong play, totaling 128 yards from scrimmage and making several key plays
- The Patriots’ rookie left side of the offensive line, LT Will Campbell and LG Jared Wilson, struggled against the Chargers’ front, allowing several pressures and sacks
Introduction to the Game
The New England Patriots moved on to the divisional round on Sunday night, taking down the Los Angeles Chargers at Gillette Stadium with a final score of 16-3. As reported, "the Patriots pass rush had the ability to take over Sunday night’s game" against a beat-up Chargers offensive line. This was evident in the team’s performance, with several players standing out for their impressive plays. As the article notes, "the unit prevailed and ended the night pressuring Justin Herbert on nearly half of his drop backs."
Standout Players on Defense
The Patriots’ defense was led by DT Milton Williams and ED K’Lavon Chaisson, who "got home for a pair of sacks — the second on the Chargers’ final play of the game — and worked well in line games where he also freed Anferee Jennings for another takedown." Chaisson also "recorded a pair of sacks himself and added an additional QB hit and forced fumble in the fourth quarter." CB Christian Gonzalez also played a crucial role, not allowing a reception on five targets and recording a pair of pass breakups. However, his availability for the next game is uncertain due to a head injury. As the article states, "Gonzalez did not allow a reception on five targets his way — three while working against Quentin Johnston." Rookie S Craig Woodson also brought physicality to the defense, with 11 total tackles and one for a loss.
Offensive Performance
On the offensive side, RB Rhamondre Stevenson continued his strong play, totaling 128 yards from scrimmage. As the article notes, "Stevenson took a check-down 48 yards behind a big downfield block by Kyle Williams to kickstart New England’s first field goal drive." This play was a significant factor in the Patriots’ victory, and Stevenson’s ability to make big plays was a key aspect of the team’s offense. Stevenson’s performance was impressive, with 53 yards on 10 carries and 75 yards on three receptions.
Struggles on the Offensive Line
However, the Patriots’ rookie left side of the offensive line, LT Will Campbell and LG Jared Wilson, struggled against the Chargers’ front. Campbell allowed a team-high six pressures and a pair of sacks, while Wilson allowed two sacks and four pressures in his first game back from a two-week absence due to a concussion. As the article states, "the Chargers got home on a number of line games off the left side." This could be a concern for the Patriots moving forward, and the team may consider turning to Ben Brown next week if they believe Wilson’s issues were more than just rust.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Patriots’ victory over the Chargers was a testament to the team’s strength and resilience. With standout performances from players like Milton Williams, K’Lavon Chaisson, and Rhamondre Stevenson, the team was able to overcome the challenges posed by the Chargers’ offense. However, the struggles on the offensive line are a concern that will need to be addressed in the coming weeks. As the Patriots move on to the divisional round, they will need to continue to play at a high level if they hope to advance further in the playoffs.
https://www.patspulpit.com/new-england-patriots-opinion/118929/winners-losers-chargers-nfl-playoffs-wild-card-game
