New England’s defense slowed Buffalo tight end Dalton Kincaid in Week 4, but the Patriots will face another demanding matchup over the middle when they meet the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 5.
The Raiders bring a two-tight-end threat that will test the Patriots’ coverage depth and discipline. Las Vegas has leaned on its 1-2 combination at the position, creating another assignment for a New England defense coming off its work against Kincaid.
Quick facts
- The Patriots contained Bills tight end Dalton Kincaid in Week 4.
- New England faces the Raiders in Week 5.
- Las Vegas enters the matchup with a notable two-tight-end tandem.
- The Patriots’ ability to defend tight ends remains a key storyline heading into the game.
Containing Kincaid gave New England a useful recent benchmark, but the Raiders present a different challenge with multiple tight ends capable of affecting matchups. The Patriots will need to account for the position in both coverage and run-game personnel decisions.
Week 5 will show whether New England can carry over its success against Buffalo’s tight end into a game where Las Vegas can stress defenses with more than one option at the spot.
