Vince Wilfork came alive in Week 13

Patriots defensive tackle Vince Wilfork had been having a down statistical year until last week’s win over the Colts.

During that game, Wilfork came alive. He had a sack and 10 tackles, drawing double teams and making the defense revolve around him. No doubt he will be a focus for the Redskins this week. But Wilfork’s stats don’t tell the whole story.

In reality, he’s having one of his best seasons as a pro. The Pro Bowler has two interceptions – always a crowd favorite – but it’s his ability to be disruptive while drawing two blockers that make him special.

Perhaps the best attribute is that Wilfork creates a run-stuffing unit that has stood out against even the best rushing attacks. Along with defensive tackle Kyle Love and ends Andre Carter and Brandon Deaderick, they are making life easy for linebackers like Jerod Mayo. It has also changed the entire complexion of the defense.

Because of their brute force up front, the Patriots have been able to use cornerbacks as safeties, without worrying about giving up physicality. They’ve gotten away with players like Sterling Moore and Nate Jones on the back end because they don’t have to stop the run. The added speed has helped the entire group.



(sportingnews.com)