Patriots Coach Mike Vrabel Addresses Penalty Issues
The New England Patriots have been known for their tenacity, but this season, penalties have become a significant concern.
As of week five, they faced 43 penalties, making it the second-highest number in the league. Coach Mike Vrabel took the time to address this issue at a recent press conference.
The Need for Discipline and Aggression
Vrabel acknowledged the need for discipline, especially regarding pre-snap penalties. However, he emphasized that aggression is a vital part of their game strategy.
“It’s not that we don’t care about penalties,” he stated. “We want our players to make smart decisions.”
Understanding Competition Fouls
While aiming for better pre-snap discipline, Vrabel defended the nature of competition fouls. He sees them as part of the game.
“We ask them to play full tilt to the tackle, but there’s a line there,” he explained.
Recent Games Highlight Penalty Problems
The Patriots’ game against the Buffalo Bills exemplified their challenges. The team received several penalties, raising eyebrows.
The penalties not only disrupted their defense but also extended drives for the Bills, impacting the game’s momentum.
Specifics of the Game Penalties
One notable incident involved linebacker Cory Durden, who was flagged for roughing the passer. This penalty led to a costly drive for the Bills.
In another instance, rookie Joshua Farmer was penalized for hitting a player after the whistle, signifying a lack of awareness.
Vrabel’s Perspective on Player Decisions
In discussing Farmer’s penalty, Vrabel attempted to put things into context, suggesting the timing of the whistle was questionable.
“It’s hard to fault Josh from last week,” he noted, advocating understanding of the game’s chaotic nature.
Coaching for Better Outcomes
Despite the penalties, Vrabel highlighted the importance of coaching players on correct responses under pressure.
“We’ll keep coaching it,” he assured, recognizing that penalties must be reduced but acknowledging their context.
The Importance of Playing to the Whistle
Vrabel reinforced that playing to the whistle is crucial in professional football.
He stated, “I don’t understand how a professional athlete could assume that play is over.”
Overall Team Performance
Despite being second in penalties, the team’s performance, highlighted by an upset win against Buffalo, shows potential.
The Patriots are working hard to establish themselves as contenders in a competitive AFC.
Reflection and Future Aspirations
The balance between aggressive play and discipline will be critical as they move forward.
Vrabel’s leadership will be crucial in reinforcing team values and minimizing penalties as they strive for excellence.
Conclusion: The Path Ahead
As the Patriots face upcoming games, how they manage their aggression will shape their season.
With Coach Vrabel at the helm, the focus will remain on aligning discipline with their hard-nosed approach.