The New England Patriots, who last week clinched their 11th consecutive AFC East title, could opt to rest some starters on Sunday against the visiting Miami Dolphins. “Look, this is very simple now,” Patriots coach Bill Belichick told his players in a locker-room speech that was broadcast on NFL Network. … So, it’s a playoff game.”The Patriots (12-3) got off to an 8-0 start this season, dominating the Dolphins 43-0 in Miami during that streak. Dolphins quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick was intercepted three times in that 43-0 game, completing 11-of-21 passes for just 89 yards. Defensively, the Patriots lead the NFL with 36 takeaways and have two Pro Bowl players in linebacker Dont’a Hightower and cornerback Stephon Gilmore.

Source: National Post December 25, 2019 17:26 UTC