The New England Patriots are preparing for their most difficult road game of the season this Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens. Unfortunately for Tennessee, they’ll be without breakout linebacker Robert Spillane, who’s out with a left ankle injury. This news hits especially hard at the Patriots’ defense. Spillane is already tied for the team lead with 97 tackles on the year.
Spillane wound up playing in the Week 15 loss to the Buffalo Bills. He did not dress for the game and was only active in case of an emergency. His absence and the resulting offensive production he has given up have forced the Patriots to make massive changes to their starting defensive lineup. Jack Gibbens would be expected to start in Spillane’s place, picking up where he left off from last week’s game.
The Patriots’ struggles have been apparent in recent weeks, leading to discussions about the team’s performance and strategies moving forward.
“Obviously we’re struggling a little bit, it’s been down these last couple weeks. We have to get back to what we were at the beginning of the year.” – Mike Smith
The Patriots are preparing to host the Ravens on short rest. Beyond that, they have to figure out how to make up for Spillane’s absence on the field. The team will need Gibbens to improve his play and fill the role of their most productive tackler. Other defensive players will need to step up.
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