FOXBORO — The Patriots have shot themselves in the foot a bit too often with drive-killing offensive pass interference penalties. During the past four games, in fact, they’ve been nailed for the dreaded OPI a whopping six times.
That undesirable spurt has them tied with the Cleveland Browns for the most infractions in that category. For a little perspective, eight teams have yet to be called for the penalty, and the NFL is averaging 1.66 OPI calls per team.
Let’s just say it’s not the type of trend Bill Belichick is looking for. The penalties have rubbed out 87 yards in completions.