In his weekly Patriots mailbag column, Doug Kyed of NESN.com was asked who he thought would be Bill Belichick's focus on defense: RB Josh Jacobs or TE Darren Waller. "I would probably say tight end Darren Waller, though I could certainly understand if the Patriots stack the box and try to slow down running back Josh Jacobs," wrote Kyed.
"As for Waller, I think we’ll see a combination of cornerback/safety Joejuan Williams (with help) and cornerback Stephon Gilmore covering the big, speedy tight end. Kyle Dugger, Adrian Phillips and Terrence Brooks also could get some reps against Waller, but I think Williams and Gilmore are the best matchups for the Patriots."
It is no secret that Patriots head coach Bill Belichick has no problem shutting down one player on the opponent's offense. After Waller's double-digit catch performance on Monday Night Football, it is clear who QB Derek Carr likes to target. This could be an issue for the Raiders offense that is relying on two rookie wide receivers and a 7th-round slot receiver.
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