One of the many reasons why the New England Patriots have had a successful season is their much-improved defense. Coming into Week 17, the Patriots rank 14th in passing yards allowed, and third in rushing yards allowed.
The rushing defense has been a real bright spot for the Patriots, and a lot of their success has to be credited to defensive tackle Alan Branch. This is Branch’s third season with the Patriots and his 10th season overall.
Branch has never been a big pass rusher in the NFL, but he has proven to be good against the run.