"The unit performed well during the preseason, but became more of a liability once the regular season finally began. The biggest problem continued to be at kicker, with rookie Andy Borregales looking like a potential mistake, on top of issues with the typically reliable punter Bryce Baringer, and tackling becoming more of a problem each week. What hasn't been problematic, however, is the return game, which has now been officially taken over by cornerback Marcus Jones."
"Fortunately, Jones' performance didn't stop there, either, and there's still plenty of time for him to add even more impressive play to the game. Marcus Jones is proving to be the special teams weapon the Patriots have long needed Adding to an already standout day for the cornerback, Jones added another incredible return late in the second quarter with a 61-yard run that was just inches away from being another touchdown."
There was offseason optimism about the Patriots' special teams after coordinator Jeremy Springer remained on staff, but the unit became a liability once the regular season began. Kicking proved the biggest problem as rookie Andy Borregales struggled and reliable punter Bryce Baringer faced issues, while tackling problems increased each week. The return game, however, is strong under cornerback Marcus Jones. Jones returned an 87-yard kickoff for a touchdown to put New England ahead and later produced a 61-yard return that nearly scored. Jones' explosiveness swung momentum and provided a much-needed boost amid broader special teams concerns.
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