Vince Wilfork coming on strong down the stretch

Patriots defensive tackle Vince Wilfork has come on strong as of late, making four tackles and pouncing on a fumble against the Redskins. He’s been more active than he was earlier in the season, pushing the pocket on passing plays even while drawing two blockers.

Wilfork’s prowess at preventing the quarterback from stepping up in the pocket will be huge on Sunday against the Broncos.

Quarterback Tim Tebow is more dangerous with his legs than with his arm, and teams can’t simply go after him like they can most passers. Instead, they must be cautious, walling him in with defensive ends and pushing the pocket with tackles.

Wilfork’s ability to build a barrier himself will never be more important. If the Patriots limit Tebow's ability to scramble, that takes away his biggest weapon. Tebow has 517 rushing yards, with 220 yards coming from scrambles. If he has to run into Wilfork enough times, he will be less likely to scramble. Then, he’s just another quarterback.



(sportingnews.com)