"Santonio Holmes' belief that the Patriots' defensive numbers "speak for themselves" isn't entirely accurate: Their 18th-ranked rush defense may actually be worse than the statistics reveal.

New England's high-octane offense has masked glaring defensive holes through the first four weeks. Tom Brady has helped disguise the deficiencies of a defense giving up 4.8 yards per carry.

Bill Belichick's team, which ranks last in total defense and pass defense, has led at halftime by an average of 9.5 points. The Patriots' winning formula is maddening for opponents: Get an early lead and force them to abandon the run."