FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Quick-hit thoughts and notes around the New England Patriots and NFL:
1. To stress the importance of tackling, and in hopes of improving on-field results, Patriots coach Bill Belichick has turned to an unconventional approach this season. He’s introduced flag football at some practices.
“It helps you focusing staying on the hip, and correct angles in tackling,” cornerback Stephon Gilmore explained.
Fellow cornerback Jason McCourty said working with the flags also can help with leverage, balance and stressing the importance of defenders looking at a runner’s hips.