Bill Belichick got his start in the NFL on special teams. That phase of the game is rooted in his coaching history, always emphasizing the importance of being great not only on offense and defense, but special teams, too.
The Rams have not had much success in that all-important third phase of football this season, struggling to find consistency at kicker and in the return game. On Sunday against the Cardinals, Matt Gay missed a 37-yard field goal and Nsimba Webster lost a fumble on a punt return, allowing Arizona to stay in the game.
On the contrary, the Patriots absolutely wrecked the Chargers on special teams in their 45-0 win, blocking a field goal and returning it for a touchdown, as well as a 70-yard punt return for a score.