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Stat check

Statistics can be both telling and deceiving after just two weeks of the NFL season. Here are some stats that we feel are more telling than deceiving:

* The Patriots rank second in the NFL in red zone offense, scoring five touchdowns in six trips. The other red zone trip resulted in a field goal.

* The Patriots are tied for last in the NFL in red zone defense, surrendering five touchdowns in five trips. That ties them with the Bills (3 touchdowns allowed in 3 trips) for the NFL’s worst mark.

* The Patriots kickoff return game hasn’t particularly missed the explosive Bethel Johnson –- the unit ranks 8th in the NFL and has an average drive start of the 30 yard line (actual average 30.4). Rookie Ellis Hobbs ranks eighth in the NFL with a 26.7 return average

* The Patriots’ kickoff coverage ranks 22nd in the NFL, allowing opponents an average drive start of the 29 yard line (actual average 28.9).

* The Patriots rank last in the NFL in average yards per rushing attempt –- 2.38 yards per carry. The team is 29th in rushing yards per game –- 56 per outing.

* The Patriots rank 25th in the NFL in third-down efficiency on offense –- 10 for 30.

Looking ahead, we’ll plan on posting our next update Wednesday after Bill Belichick’s 10:45 a.m. EDT press conference. There is no media access today. Also, a reminder to check out a Boston.com chat with Boston Globe Patriots beat writer Jerome Solomon today at 1 p.m. EDT.
--Mike