2. Cody Ford vs. Kyle Van Noy
This season, the New England Patriots aren’t winning thanks to their offense. For the first time in a long time, Tom Brady isn’t scaring opponents the way he used to. Much of that has to do with his lack of receiving options.
That doesn’t mean this team is a pushover though. It’s actually the opposite as they feature one of the more dominant defenses in the league. And that’s surprising given the fact that they rarely spend big money to retain their guys.
Recently this happened as they didn’t re-sign Trey Flowers or Malcom Brown. Even with those two now gone, the defense continues to shine. One of the reasons for that is the play of edge rusher Kyle Van Noy.
He proved how dangerous he could be in the last meeting, recording eight tackles and two sacks. This week, he will need to be watched closely by Cody Ford who is coming off a game against the Steelers where he saw some talented pass rushers as well.
Ford was battling with T.J. Watt in that one and Watt had some flashes and finished with a half-sack. What was important though is Ford didn’t allow him to take over the game. He will need to do that once again this weekend.