FOXBORO — For the Patriots to reach their desired destination, cornerbacks Malcolm Butler and Stephon Gilmore need to establish some positive momentum Sunday against the Jets and have it snowball through January.
The star corners hit a lull during the past two victories against the Steelers and Bills, but the doctor ordered up a dose of Bryce Petty for the regular-season finale at Gillette Stadium. This would be a good time to build confidence before the playoffs, as it will be Gilmore’s maiden voyage to the postseason and could be Butler’s final ride with the Pats before collecting a big payday in free agency.