Sacks are a rush for improving Warren
KANSAS CITY -- When third down comes around, Patriots defensive end Ty Warren can usually be seen trudging to the sideline as the Patriots' defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel shuttles in pass rushers and defenders. The Patriots first-round draft pick in 2003 hasn't become an instant Pro Bowler or a life-threatening danger to NFL quarterbacks, but he has become another vital cog in a tremendous defense, especially on running downs.
The Patriots' defense did a great job against the top running team in the NFL in last night's 27-19 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs and Warren was a big part of that, but, lo and behold, big No. 94 found himself wrapping his arms around Chiefs quarterback Trent Green for two sacks.
"It felt good to get a piece of the quarterback," said Warren. "I'm usually a run down guy so I'm glad to get them [sacks] when I get the chance."
Warren's first sack came in the first quarter after the Chiefs had moved into scoring position at the Patriots 34 following a 34-yard kickoff return by the dangerous Dante Hall and a 22-yard pass play from Green to Pro Bowl tight end Tony Gonzalez. On second and 10, Warren, working against Chiefs right tackle John Welbourn dumped Green for a nine-yard loss.
On third down, Green completed a 17-yard pass to Johnnie Morton but it was short of a first down and the Chiefs had to settle for a field goal.
Warren's second sack came in the fourth quarter on a first-and-10 play when he once again muscled his way to Green, nailing him for a 6-yard loss and forcing a fumble. The Patriots couldn't capitalize, however, as Green recovered the loose ball and eventually hit Eddie Kennison for a 26-yard touchdown pass.
First-round draft picks are expected to develop into stars, of course. Warren hasn't become one yet, but he's filling an important role, and after last night he has 3 1/2 sacks this season.
"I'm getting better week to week," he said.
Last night there was significant improvement. Warren also recorded seven tackles to accompany his two sacks. Warren and the entire Patriots defense did a remarkable job shutting down the Chiefs' running game, holding tailback Derrick Blaylock to 58 yards.
"We did the job collectively," Warren said. "We just built a wall and did what we planned to do. We had to execute."
The staunch run defense was offset by Green's 381 passing yards, but the Patriots made a commitment to stop the run.
"The front seven did a good job in the running game," said Patriots coach Bill Belichick. "Our interior people, for the most part, did a pretty good job. We did not get our safeties involved in the running game."
"It's our job on defense to help each other," said Warren. "The defensive line can help the secondary and they can help us. If we put pressure on the quarterback, it helps them."
