Vince Wilfork big part of win

FOXBORO — With depth issues on the defensive line, the Patriots [team stats] called on nose tackle Vince Wilfork [stats] to add to his usual responsibilities.

In Sunday night’s 31-27 win against the Green Bay Packers at Gillette Stadium, the 6-foot-2, 325-pounder wasn’t just a run-stuffer on first and second downs.

Coach Bill Belichick estimated Wilfork played 74 of the 80 defensive snaps, making six tackles and recovering the final fumble. But statistics don’t come close to discussing his effectiveness.

“I thought Vince did a terrific job for us,” Belichick said. “I thought he played hard. He really had an outstanding game. They had a lot of attention directed at him, which is understandable, but he had a bunch of double-teams and slides on the protection coming his way. He really played hard, played well and did a lot of things to help us win. I thought he was outstanding — probably one of the best games he’s played.”

Considering Wilfork is a two-time Pro Bowler who may need to pack for a third trip, that’s saying a lot.

“He’s played a lot of good ones,” Belichick said, “but I’d say that’s one of the best ones he’s played around here.”

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(boston.com)