Before we completely let go of last Sunday’s game, here are a few things that I haven’t seen mentioned:

* - The Patriots “lost” the first down battle, 25-24, Sunday night. They have now lost their last 4 games (0-2 this year and 0-2 last year) when they have fewer first downs than their opponent. Since 2004, Indianapolis is now 52-3 when they have more first downs than their opponent. None of that would have happened if… well, you know.

* - Including the playoffs, the Patriots have now lost 2 games since 1994 when they scored 34+ points. Both losses came at the hands of the Colts. The other was a 38-34 loss at Indianapolis in the AFC Championship Game on January 21, 2007.

* - Since the start of the 2005 season, the Pats are 25-2 when scoring 34+ points (including playoffs), by far the most such games by any NFL team in that span:

27 - New England Patriots (25-2)
21 - Indianapolis Colts (19-2)
21 - Minnesota Vikings (18-3)
20 - Green Bay Packers (19-1)
20 - Denver Broncos (18-2)

* - The Patriots are now 15-9 in games decided by 3 points or less since 2003 (including playoffs) and have lost 5 of their last 7 such games. They are 10-6 away from home in those games in that span, losing 4 of their last 5.

TOP WINNING % IN GAMES DECIDED BY 3 OR FEWER POINTS (since 2003; includes playoffs):

.714 - Indianapolis Colts (20-8)
.679 - Denver Broncos (19-9)
.652 - Chicago Bears (15-8)
.643 - Carolina Panthers (18-10)
.625 - New England Patriots (15-9)

Buffalo, at .292 (7-17) has the worst such record.

* - Both teams put up 400+ total yards on Sunday night, the first time in a Patriots (or Colts) game since 2005. Prior to Sunday, the Patriots had won 6 straight games in which both teams had 400+ yards of offense, their last loss coming back in 1994. By the way, there were 3 games last weekend where both teams eclipsed 400 yards (Cardinals/Seahawks and Saints/Rams in addition to Patriots/Colts) making 9 already this season in the NFL. That’s as many as there were during all of last season and more than occurred in 2005 (8), 2006 (7), and 2007 (8). Every team has played in at least one such game this decade except Washington.

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Now let’s move on to Week 11 and the game against the Jets. The other great thing about Week 11? No more bye weeks! Here come the nuggets:

* - The Jets continue to lead the NFL in Fewest Yards/Play Allowed:

4.62 - New York Jets
4.67 - Pittsburgh Steelers
4.75 - Philadelphia Eagles

* - The Patriots are 4th in Offensive Yards/Play:

6.48 - New Orleans Saints
6.36 - Indianapolis Colts
6.33 - Dallas Cowboys
6.01 - New England Patriots

* - Here’s a stat that will probably receive some scrutiny this week: The Jets have the highest 4th down conversion percentage in the NFL this season (77%) and have allowed the lowest conversion percentage (11%). The Pats are a middle-of-the-pack 5-11 (46%) on offense and have allowed just 3-9 (33%), tied for 5th best.

* - Until last Sunday, the Patriots were one of six teams that had not allowed any points during a “two-minute drill” (drives that begin in the final two minutes of a half) this season.

* - New England has allowed their opponent to begin a drive on the Patriots’ side of the 50 just 4 times this season (including one big one last week) and have allowed just 7 points on those drives (yep, those seven). The Jets have allowed just 9 points on 7 such drives this year. When on offense, both teams have started a lot of drives beyond the 50 (Pats-17 and Jets-16) but neither has done much with them. The Jets average 2.81 points on those drives (24th) while the Pats average 2.47 (26th).

* - Jets opponents have started inside their own 20 yard line 44% of the time (14-32) over the last 4 weeks, the most in the NFL in that span. That’s quite an improvement, as they pinned their opponent back just 19% of the time (13-68) prior to that.

* - The Patriots have been bad at pinning opponents back all season, forcing their opponent to start inside their 20 just 18% of the time, the 2nd lowest percentage in the NFL. What’s more, then they DO pin them back, they’ve given up an average of 1.7 points per drive, the 2nd highest average in the league.

DO YOU KNOW?: Which team leads the NFL in average points scored per game over the last 4 weeks? If you answered the Tennessee Titans, move to the head of the class. The Titans have averaged 35.0 over the last 4 weeks, ahead of the Saints (34.8) and Patriots (32.0).

* - OK, look, I know about all of the hand-wringing over “4th and 2″ last week, but the game changed when Maroney fumbled into the end zone. It was just the 7th fumble all season by the Pats (and the 3rd recovered by the defense) in 973 offensive touches, a league-leading rate of 0.72%. It’s the only time that the Patriots have failed to score in a goal-to-go situation this season (they are 14 out of 15 now).

* - The Jets have run the ball an average of 36 times per game, by far the most in the NFL (Miami is 2nd at 33.7). They average 4.7 yards per carry (5th).

* - On first down, the Jets have run the ball over 72% of the time this season, the highest percentage in the NFL since they began tracking the stat in 1991:

72.9% - New York Jets, 2009
69.9% - Atlanta Falcons, 2008
69.6% - Baltimore Ravens, 2008
68.6% - New York Giants, 1993
68.3% - Washington Redskins, 1991

* - New England has allowed 4 or more yards on 49.5% of opponent rushing plays, the worst percentage in the league. Here are the last three teams that finished last in this category (and their final record):

2008 - Atlanta Falcons (11-5)
2007 - Jacksonville Jaguars (11-5)
2006 - New York Jets (10-6)

The last 7 straight such teams have ended the season with a record of .500 or better.  Yes… that was unexpected.

* - Here’s a nice matchup: The Patriots lead the NFL in first down efficiency, gaining 4 or more yards on 56% of their first down plays this season. But the Jets rank 2nd in defensive first down efficiency, allowing 4+ yards just 39% of the time. And it works the other way, too, as the Jets offense ranks 29th in that category (40% success rate), while the Patriots defense checks in 24th (48%). Of course, the Pats weren’t helped when Indy gained 4+ yards on 24 of 32 first down plays (75%) last Sunday.

* - How bad was New England’s first down defense last Sunday? They allowed 11 first downs (plays of 10+ yards) on first down plays. It was just the 4th time that they have allowed 11 such first downs since the start of the 2005 season. The last time they allowed more? October, 2001… against the Colts.

* - The Jets are one of only two NFL teams that have not allowed a “quick strike” (4 plays or less) score all season (along with SD). Meanwhile, the Patriots have scored 42 points in that fashion (5th). 29 of those have come in their last 3 games.

* - When the Patriots get to 2nd down and short (1 to 3 yards to go), and they do that a lot based on their league-leading first down efficiency, they’ve been quite good at converting right then (and not risking third down at all). The Pats have converted 71% of 2nd and short this season (1st), while the Jets have allowed just 44% conversions in those spots (2nd lowest percentage allowed).

DID YOU KNOW?: The Texans are the only team that has not scored on their first possession of any game this season. Conversely, the 49ers are the only team that has not ALLOWED a score on their opponent’s first possession.

* - The Patriots have been very good all season at avoiding 3 and outs, as just 18% of their possessions have gone 1-2-3-punt (or go for it instead of punt, sometimes). The Jets, though, have been a different team lately. Over their first six games, they went 3 and out 23 times in 78 possessions (29%), but just 6 out of 35 (17%) in their last three games.

* - The Jets have blitzed on 57% of their opponents’ pass plays (highest percentage in the NFL) this season, although just 47% of the time over their lst three games. Will they continue to blitz Sunday? Over the Pats last three games, they’ve TORCHED blitzes to the tune of 77% completions and 9.78 yards/attempt (both NFL highs in that span).

* - Only 57% of passes thrown by Jets’ quarterbacks have been classified as “catchable” this season, 2nd worst in the league (Cleveland is 0.1% worse). New England is at 73% (4th). The Colts (75%) have taken over the top spot.

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I’m throwing a new wrinkle at you this week, showing Air Traffic Control and Ground Transfers stats over just the past five weeks instead of the season to date. The notes will cover the entire season as well as the last five weeks.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL - LAST 5 WEEKS ONLY
Week 11 vs New York Jets

NEW YORK JETS PASS OFFENSE - 111 Att / 50% Completions / 6.66 YA / 4 TD / 8 INT

LEFT: 31% of tries / 50% / 7.35 / 1 / 5
MIDDLE: 13% of tries / 57% / 9.00 / 0 / 0
RIGHT: 57% of tries / 48% / 5.76 / 3 / 3

BEHIND LINE: 13% of tries / 36% / 2.57 / 0 / 2
1 TO 10 YDS: 50% of tries / 63% / 6.91 / 1 / 1
11 TO 20 YDS: 26% of tries / 48% / 9.69 / 2 / 1
21 TO 30 YDS: 0 of 6 / 0% / 0.00 / 0 / 2
31 TO 40 YDS: 1 of 4 / 25% / 8.75 / 1 / 1
41+ YDS: 0 of 2 / 0% / 0.00 / 0 / 1

NOTES: 50% completions over the last five weeks is 30th and interception percentage (7.2%) is NFL’s highest… 14 passes thrown behind the line of scrimmage are the fewest in the league as is their 36% completions… On the season, the Jets completed 19 of their first 30 passes behind the line (63%), but just 5 of their last 14 (36%).

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS PASS DEFENSE - 125 Att / 49% Completions / 5.70 YA / 6 TD / 7 INT

LEFT: 46% of tries / 47% / 5.18 / 3 / 4
MIDDLE: 11% of tries / 64% / 6.21 / 1 / 0
RIGHT: 43% of tries / 46% / 6.11 / 2 / 3

BEHIND LINE: 12% of tries / 60% / 2.47 / 1 / 0
1 TO 10 YDS: 47% of tries / 54% / 4.53 / 2 / 2
11 TO 20 YDS: 27% of tries / 47% / 8.41 / 1 / 1
21 TO 30 YDS: 2 of 10 / 20% / 5.40 / 1 / 2
31 TO 40 YDS: 2 of 6 / 33% / 11.33 / 1 / 1
41+ YDS: 0 of 1 / 0% / 0.00 / 0 / 1

NOTES: Over the last 5 weeks, New England’s defense has allowed the lowest completion percentage (49%) and yards per attempt (5.70) in the NFL… On the season, 44% of opponent pass attempts have gone to the left side, the 2nd highest rate in the league… 54% completions and 4.53 yards/attempt on short throws (1 to 10 yards) are both league bests over the past 5 weeks.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS PASS OFFENSE - 156 Att / 74% Completions / 9.28 YA / 13 TD / 4 INT

LEFT: 40% of tries / 69% / 8.87 / 6 / 2
MIDDLE: 13% of tries / 95% / 11.95 / 1 / 1
RIGHT: 47% of tries / 72% / 8.89 / 6 / 1

BEHIND LINE: 21% of tries / 82% / 6.94 / 2 / 0
1 TO 10 YDS: 50% of tries / 81% / 6.77 / 5 / 0
11 TO 20 YDS: 17% of tries / 67% / 14.26 / 2 / 1
21 TO 30 YDS: 3 of 7 / 43% / 16.86 / 2 / 0
31 TO 40 YDS: 3 of 6 / 50% / 20.67 / 1 / 1
41+ YDS: 1 of 5 / 20% / 12.60 / 1 / 2

NOTES:  After completing 21 of their first 34 passes over the middle (62%), the Patriots have completed 19 of 20 (95%) over the last four games… The Pats are also leading the league with 81% completions on short throws (1 to 10 yards) and 67% on intermediate throws (11 to 20 yards) over the last five weeks… After starting the season 0-8 on passes thrown 31+ yards, New England has completed 4 of 11 over the last four games.

NEW YORK JETS PASS DEFENSE - 108 Att / 55% Completions / 6.02 YA / 3 TD / 3 INT

LEFT: 52% of tries / 55% / 5.93 / 1 / 1
MIDDLE: 11% of tries / 42% / 6.17 / 0 / 2
RIGHT: 37% of tries / 58% / 6.10 / 2 / 0

BEHIND LINE: 19% of tries / 81% / 5.57 / 0 / 1
1 TO 10 YDS: 46% of tries / 62% / 6.40 / 3 / 1
11 TO 20 YDS: 22% of tries / 38% / 6.46 / 0 / 0
21 TO 30 YDS: 2 of 9 / 22% / 6.44 / 0 / 0
31 TO 40 YDS: 0 of 1 / 0% / 0.00 / 0 / 1
41+ YDS: 0 of 3 / 0% / 0.00 / 0 / 0

NOTES: Jets have allowed just 59 completions over the last 5 weeks, fewest in the NFL… 5.80 yards/attempt allowed during the season as a whole is the lowest in the league, as are the 79 passing first downs allowed… The Jets have been stingy on short throws (1 to 10 yards) this season, allowing a league-low 42% completions.

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GROUND TRANSFERS - LAST 5 WEEKS ONLY
Week 11 vs NY JETS

NEW YORK JETS RUSHING OFFENSE - 163 Att / 5.34 Avg / 7 TD / 25% First Downs / 6% Stuffs

1st DOWN - 95 / 5.72 / 4 TD / 14% FD / 6% Stuffs
2nd DOWN - 51 / 4.04 / 1 TD / 31% FD / 8% Stuffs
3rd DOWN - 13 / 6.85 / 1 TD / 54% FD / 0% Stuffs

2nd/3rd & SHORT (2 yds or less) - 9 / 2.11 / 0 TD / 33% FD / 22% Stuffs
2nd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 27 / 4.48 / 1 TD / 44% FD / 0% Stuffs
3rd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 6 / 3.33 / 0 TD / 50% FD / 0% Stuffs
2nd & LONG (8+ yds) - 19 / 4.47 / 0 TD / 16% FD / 11% Stuffs
3rd & LONG (8+ yds) - 3 / 16.67 / 1 TD / 67% FD / 0% Stuffs

Versus BLITZ - 6 / 4.17 / 1 TD / 33% FD / 33% Stuffs
Versus 6+ Defenders on Line - 35 / 4.00 / 0 TD / 20% FD / 0% Stuffs

NOTES: The Jets have 324 rushes this season, the most in the NFL… They rank 6th in rushing average (4.73) on the season and are 4th (5.34) over the last five weeks… The Jets were stuffed on 12% of their runs over the season’s first five weeks but have improved to just 6% (2nd best in the league) over the last five weeks… The Jets have run on 2nd/3rd and short (2 yards or less) 9 times over the last 5 weeks but have picked up the first down just 33% of the time, the lowest percentage in the NFL over that span.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS RUSHING DEFENSE - 111 Att / 4.56 Avg / 2 TD / 19% First Downs / 11% Stuffs

1st DOWN - 59 / 3.47 / 1 TD / 8% FD / 15% Stuffs
2nd DOWN - 41 / 5.59 / 0 TD / 24% FD / 7% Stuffs
3rd DOWN - 9 / 7.22 / 1 TD / 56% FD / 0% Stuffs

2nd/3rd & SHORT (2 yds or less) - 10 / 5.80 / 1 TD / 80% FD / 0% Stuffs
2nd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 14 / 2.86 / 0 TD / 14% FD / 7% Stuffs
3rd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 2 / 18.00 / 0 TD / 50% FD / 0% Stuffs
2nd & LONG (8+ yds) - 22 / 7.23 / 0 TD / 18% FD / 9% Stuffs
3rd & LONG (8+ yds) - 2 / 0.50 / 0 TD / 0% FD / 0% Stuffs

Versus BLITZ - 6 / -0.67 / 0 TD / 0% FD / 50% Stuffs
Versus 6+ Defenders on Line - 18 / 3.50 / 0 TD / 39% FD / 0% Stuffs

NOTES: While the Jets have rushed for 13 TD’s this season (4th), the Patriots have allowed just 3 rushing touchdowns (also 4th)… 7.23 average allowed on 2nd and long (8+ to go) is the highest in the NFL over the last five weeks, but only 18% of those runs went for first downs… On the season, opponents have run against a Patriots blitz 14 times, gaining just 1.36 yards per carry (2nd best in the league).

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS RUSHING OFFENSE - 110 Att / 4.75 Avg / 5 TD / 24% First Downs / 9% Stuffs

1st DOWN - 58 / 4.48 / 1 TD / 10% FD / 7% Stuffs
2nd DOWN - 39 / 5.36 / 4 TD / 33% FD / 8% Stuffs
3rd DOWN - 12 / 4.50 / 0 TD / 58% FD / 17% Stuffs

2nd/3rd & SHORT (2 yds or less) - 12 / 3.08 / 3 TD / 92% FD / 0% Stuffs
2nd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 19 / 6.00 / 1 TD / 26% FD / 11% Stuffs
3rd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 2 / 5.50 / 0 TD / 0% FD / 0% Stuffs
2nd & LONG (8+ yds) - 14 / 5.86 / 0 TD / 21% FD / 7% Stuffs
3rd & LONG (8+ yds) - 4 / 4.75 / 0 TD / 25% FD / 50% Stuffs

Versus BLITZ - 4 / 6.25 / 0 TD / 25% FD / 0% Stuffs
Versus 6+ Defenders on Line - 6 / 2.67 / 1 TD / 17% FD / 0% Stuffs

NOTES: Things have improved recently in the Patriots run game: Their rushing average has gone from 3.62 over the first five games to 4.75 over the last four… Over the last four games, the Pats have converted the first down 11 times in 12 rushing attempts on 2nd/3rd and 2 yards or less (92%).

NEW YORK JETS RUSHING DEFENSE - 116 Att / 3.90 Avg / 2 TD / 19% First Downs / 11% Stuffs

1st DOWN - 59 / 3.98 / 0 TD / 8% FD / 8% Stuffs
2nd DOWN - 43 / 3.26 / 1 TD / 21% FD / 12% Stuffs
3rd DOWN - 14 / 5.50 / 1 TD / 57% FD / 21% Stuffs

2nd/3rd & SHORT (2 yds or less) - 16 / 4.25 / 1 TD / 56% FD / 31% Stuffs
2nd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 15 / 4.33 / 1 TD / 40% FD / 7% Stuffs
3rd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 3 / 3.00 / 0 TD / 33% FD / 0% Stuffs
2nd & LONG (8+ yds) - 20 / 3.20 / 0 TD / 0% FD / 5% Stuffs
3rd & LONG (8+ yds) - 3 / 3.67 / 0 TD / 33% FD / 33% Stuffs

Versus BLITZ - 6 / 2.83 / 1 TD / 17% FD / 17% Stuffs
Versus 6+ Defenders on Line - 39 / 4.74 / 2 TD / 31% FD / 13% Stuffs

NOTES: While the Patriots have been very good at running on 2nd down over the last 5 weeks (5.36 average; ranked 3rd), the Jets have been very good at stopping 2nd down runs (3.26 average allowed; ranked 5th)… 31% stuffs on 2nd/3rd and 2 yards or less leads the NFL over the last 5 weeks. They’ve stuffed 5 of 16 such runs in that span after recording just 1 stuff on 12 such runs during their first five games.

In today’s installment, we examine the pitchers who faced the fewest batters in 2009 as members of the Red Sox.  Also, I’ve added a couple of stats for each player as we go forward:

A)  Most and Least Effective Pitch (for 2009):  The awesome website FANGRAPHS tracks the result (and type) of each pitch thrown and, using a statistical approach called “linear weights”, is able to assign a “run” value.  Over the season, they add those values and arrive at a cumulative “runs saved above average” (and runs saved per 100 pitches) for each pitch type.  Obviously, small sample sizes don’t help us too much, but it still allows a peek inside each pitcher’s repertoire.  For pitchers that pitched for multiple teams, the stats shown are “Red Sox only”.  Note that for hitters, the same stats are presented for which pitches they “handle” and are expressed in “runs produced above average” (or per 100 pitches).

B)  Fastball average velocity (and usage).

C)  Versus the Best and Worst Hitters (for 2009):  How each pitcher fared against the league’s best hitters (those with an OPS of 850+) and the league’s poorest (less than a 700 OPS).  This is an emphasis in scouting.  Is this pitcher able to handle the best hitters?  Or does he make his living by retiring the weak ones?  Conversely, for hitters, we will examine results against the best and worst pitchers.

* - Before we get into the individual pitchers, note that the Red Sox had five pitchers in 2009 that finished the season with an ERA above 9.00, the 2nd most ever by a Red Sox staff (the ‘95 Red Sox had seven).  The most ever in MLB?  The 1996 Tigers had 9 such pitchers.

* - Red Sox pitchers who ended the season with a 9.00+ ERA faced 227 batters in 2009, 2nd most in the majors:
 
291 - New York Yankees (206 from Chien-Ming Wang)
227 - Boston Red Sox
194 - Kansas City Royals
178 - Los Angeles Angels
 
It was also the 2nd most ever by a Red Sox team:

275 - 1980 Red Sox (Hurst, Billingham over 100 each)
227 - 2009 Red Sox
223 - 1995 Red Sox
203 - 1925 Red Sox
 
TRIVIA QUESTION:  What was the last year that the Red Sox didn’t have a pitcher end up with a 9.00+ ERA for them?  Any guesses?  I’ll put the answer in the next installment of Red Sox Reviews.

DUSTIN RICHARDSON - 2009 PITCHING STATS - 14 BF / 3.1 IP / 0.00 ERA / 1.200 WHIP / 0 K / 1 BB / 0 HR

Most Effective Pitch (per Fangraphs): Fastball - Saved +1.02 runs above average per 100 thrown (FB was only pitch that he threw more than 10 times)
Fastball Velocity: 91.1 mph (68% of pitches were fastballs)

Vs Good (850+ OPS) Hitters: 2 BF (14%) - 000 AVG / 000 OBP / 000 SLG / 000 OPS
Vs Poor (less than 700 OPS) Hitters: 3 BF (21%) - 333 AVG / 333 OBP / 333 SLG / 667 OPS

* - Opponents got to a three-ball count against Richardson three times last season. The results were a 1.000 OBP (2 hits and a walk).

* - What are the odds that in 3 appearances last season, Richardson pitched to 3 different catchers, and none of them were named Varitek? He threw to Martinez, Kottaras, and Brown.

* - Has yet to throw a pitch when the Red Sox were less than 5 runs ahead or behind.

ENRIQUE GONZALEZ - 2009 PITCHING STATS - 18 BF / 3.2 IP / 4.91 ERA / 1.909 WHIP / 1 K / 2 BB / 1 HR

Most Effective Pitch (per Fangraphs): Changeup - Saved +11.21 runs above average per 100 thrown (he threw 12)
Fastball Velocity: 91.8 mph (68% of pitches were fastballs)

Vs Good (850+ OPS) Hitters: 12 BF (67%) - 200 AVG / 333 OBP / 500 SLG / 833 OPS
Vs Poor (less than 700 OPS) Hitters: 2 BF (11%) - 2 for 2 (both singles)

* - 2009 was the third consecutive season in which Gonzalez has pitched fewer than 4 innings, making him one of just six pitchers to do that in three straight seasons since at least 1952 (and Gonzalez is the only one to do it with three different teams):

Jim Foor - 1971-1972 (Detroit); 1973 (Pittsburgh)
Jeff Kaiser - 1987-1989 (Cleveland)
Vance Lovelace - 1988-1989 (California); 1990 (Seattle)
Colter Bean - 2005-2007 (New York Yankees)
Juan Morillo - 2007-2008 (Colorado); 2009 (Minnesota)
Enrique Gonzalez - 2007 (Arizona); 2008 (San Diego); 2009 (Boston)

No pitcher has had 4 different seasons of fewer than 4 innings pitched, much less 4 consecutive seasons.

BILLY TRABER - 2009 PITCHING STATS - 20 BF / 3.2 IP / 12.27 ERA / 2.727 WHIP / 1 K / 1 BB / 2 HR

Most Effective Pitch (per Fangraphs): Changeup - Saved +4.92 runs above average per 100 thrown (he threw 17)
Fastball Velocity: 84.3 mph (61% of pitches were fastballs)

Vs Good (850+ OPS) Hitters: 18 BF (90%) - 471 AVG / 500 OBP / 882 SLG / 1382 OPS
Vs Poor (less than 700 OPS) Hitters: None Faced

* - The composite OPS of the 20 batters faced by Billy Traber was .880, the highest composite OPS of batters faced by any pitcher in the majors last season (min. 20 BF):

.880 - Billy Traber, BOS
.849 - Alfredo Simon, BAL
.839 - Bob McCrory, BAL

The lowest composite OPS faced by any pitcher was .716, by Kelvim Escobar (LAA; same minimums).

FERNANDO CABRERA - 2009 PITCHING STATS - 28 BF / 5.1 IP / 8.44 ERA / 2.063 WHIP / 8 K / 4 BB / 0 HR

Most Effective Pitch (per Fangraphs): Slider - Saved +2.48 runs above average per 100 thrown (he threw 46)
Fastball Velocity: 91.3 mph (54% of pitches were fastballs)

Vs Good (850+ OPS) Hitters: 4 BF (14%) - 2 for 3 (both hits doubles)
Vs Poor (less than 700 OPS) Hitters: 7 BF (25%) - 143 AVG / 143 OBP / 143 SLG / 286 OPS

* - Cabrera’s first pitch was a ball to 50% of the batters he faced last season. In those 14 plate appearances, the opposing batter’s OBP was .714, the highest such OBP in the majors last season (min. 14 such BF):

.714 - Fernando Cabrera, BOS
.667 - Lenny DiNardo, KC
.636 - Jhoulys Chacin, COL

* - None of the 28 batters that Cabrera faced put the first pitch in play last season. In fact, none of the last 39 batters (dating back to 2008) have put the first pitch in play. Here are the pitchers who faced the most batters without one putting the first pitch in play in 2009:

52 - Randy Flores, COL
28 - Fernando Cabrera, BOS
16 - Esmil Rogers, COL

In Cabrera’s career, 11.3% of opposing plate appearances have lasted just 1 pitch. That’s about the same as the MLB average (11.1%).

HUNTER JONES - 2009 PITCHING STATS - 63 BF / 12.2 IP / 9.24 ERA / 1.816 WHIP / 9 K / 7 BB / 3 HR

Most Effective Pitch (per Fangraphs): Slider - Saved -0.77 runs above (below) average per 100 thrown (he threw 102)
Fastball Velocity: 86.9 mph (59% of pitches were fastballs)

Vs Good (850+ OPS) Hitters: 18 BF (29%) - 400 AVG / 500 OBP / 733 SLG / 1233 OPS (6 hits included 2 doubles and a HR)
Vs Poor (715 or less OPS) Hitters: 15 BF (24%) - 250 AVG / 308 OBP / 250 SLG / 558 OPS

* - When opponents put the first pitch in play, they went 6 for 9 with 2 doubles and 2 HR (and a HBP), good for an OPS allowed of 2.156. That’s the highest such OPS allowed by a Red Sox pitcher since they began tracking the stat in 1988 (min. 10 such batters faced):

2.156 - Hunter Jones, 2009
2.095 - Kip Gross, 1999
1.970 - John Halama, 2005
1.814 - John Smoltz, 2009

Jones’ 2.156 would rank as the 6th highest in MLB since 1998.

* - When the first pitch of an AB was a strike, Jones went on to record 8 strikeouts (33% of opponent AB). But when the count started 1-0, he fanned just 1 (5% of AB). That difference of 28% was the 4th highest in the AL among pitchers with at least 20 opponent AB through each count:

30.8% - Daniel Bard, BOS (52% after 0-1; 21% after 1-0)
28.4% - Octavio Dotel, CWS (46% ; 18%)
28.4% - Carlos Torres, CWS (37% ; 9%)
28.3% - Hunter Jones, BOS (33% ; 5%)

JAVIER LOPEZ - 2009 PITCHING STATS (RED SOX) - 64 BF / 11.2 IP / 9.26 ERA / 2.486 WHIP / 5 K / 9 BB / 1 HR

Most Effective Pitch (per Fangraphs): Fastball - Saved -2.78 runs above (below) average per 100 thrown (he threw 157)
Fastball Velocity: 86.6 mph (63% of pitches were fastballs)

Vs Good (850+ OPS) Hitters: 20 BF (31%) - 375 AVG / 474 OBP / 563 SLG / 1036 OPS
Vs Poor (715 or less OPS) Hitters: 12 BF (19%) - 375 AVG / 583 OBP / 500 SLG / 1083 OPS

* - Lopez’ 2.486 WHIP in 2009 is the highest by a Red Sox reliever with more than 10 IP since 1964, when Dave Gray put up an astronomical 2.923 WHIP in 13 innings, allowing 18 hits and 20 walks.

* - Lopez finished his Red Sox career ranked 20th in games pitched in relief as a Red Sox with 172. He finished 5 appearances behind 19th place Dick Drago, 1 game ahead of Rheal Cormier, and 2 ahead of Keith Foulke.

* - Lopez has faced an average of 3.12 batters per appearance in his career, the 4th lowest figure ever (min. 300 relief appearances):

2.70 - Mike Myers (883 games including 25 with the Red Sox in 2004)
2.95 - Ray King
3.09 - Mike Holtz
3.12 - Javier Lopez
3.13 - Will Ohman

Check back soon for the next edition of Red Sox Reviews!

Great matchup this weekend. Should be fun to watch. Let’s get to the nuggets:

* - POINTS ON THE BOARD: While it SEEMS that this rivalry is generally about two great quarterbacks and offenses, the two defenses are getting it done this year. Indianapolis is allowing the fewest points per game in the NFL this season (13.5), while New England ranks 2nd (14.4). Don’t get the wrong idea, though. The offenses can play a little, too. The Patriots are #2 in scoring (28.1) while Indy is 5th (27.1).

* - RECENTLY, HOWEVER: Over the past three games, they are still 1-2 in scoring defense, but it’s New England ranked first (8.1) followed by the Colts (12.3).

* - SECOND QUARTER COLLISION: New England leads the NFL in second quarter scoring per game (12.3), while Indianapolis leads the NFL in second quarter scoring defense per game (3.5).

* - LONG DRIVES: The Pats (21) and Colts (18) rank 1st and 3rd in drives of 10+ plays this season. The Colts have cashed in to a bit greater extent, though (4.17 average points vs 3.90 for NE). Over the last 4 weeks, though, New England has ranked 1st in the NFL in average points per long drive (5.67) while Indy (4.29) is 9th. Neither team ranks in the top half of the league in preventing long drives, but when opponents have the ball for 10+ plays, the Colts have allowed just 2.88 points on average (9th) while the Pats (4.31) rank 26th.

* - 1ST DOWN SUCCESS: Over the last 4 weeks, the Patriots have gained 4+ yards on 67% of their first down plays, the best in the league by far (the Saints are 2nd at 53% during that span). Also, the Pats have allowed 4 or more yards on just 33% of opponents first down plays over the last 4 weeks, 4th best.

* - THREE AND OUT: The Patriots have gone three and out an NFl-low 4 times in their last 3 games (none last week against Miami), while Indy’s defense has forced 12 three and outs, the 3rd highest rate in the league during that span.

* - COLTS LIMIT BIG PLAYS: The Colts have allowed just 14 plays of 20+ yards this season, the fewest in the league. Two of those were rushing plays (tied for the fewest) and only 19% of pass yards allowed by the Colts this season have come on those big plays, the lowest percentage in the league. By contrast, 32% of New England’s pass yards have come on plays of 20+ yards (22nd). Who leads the league? Dallas, with 50% of their pass plays coming on big gainers.

* - THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: Not surprisingly, the Colts come in having converted 51% of their 3rd down opportunities, the highest percentage in the NFL. The Pats come in 6th (45%). How do you convert at a high rate? Stay out of 3rd and long. Indy has done that, facing only 17 third-and-10+ yards all season, the fewest in the league. Every other team has at least 20.

* - STOPPING THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: New England’s defense has fared quite well in both 3rd and short categories. They’ve allowed 46% with 3 yards to go or less (4th) and 40% on 3rd and 5 or less (also 4th). The Colts defense has been particularly nasty in 3rd and long (6 yards or more), allowing only 20% conversions (2nd). However, they have looked soft otherwise, allowing 67% conversions on 3rd and 5 yards or fewer, the highest rate in the league this year. That matches up with the Patriots, who are just 5 for their last 20 in 3rd and 6+ (25%) but 12 for their last 16 (75%) in 3rd and 5 or fewer to go.

* - GOTTA TAKE ADVANTAGE OF GIFTS: The Pats have started 15 drives in opponent territory, but have averaged just 2.13 points on those possessions, 30th in the NFL.

* - IF YOU GET ‘EM: The Colts and Patriots have allowed opponents to begin just 3 possessions each inside the 50 yard line, tied for the NFL lead. What’s more, the Pats allowed zero points on those possessions while the Colts have allowed 6 (two FG).

* - FIELD POSITION DON’T MATTER TO PEYTON: When forced to start a drive inside their own 20 yard line, the Colts have averaged an NFL-high 2.33 points on 21 drives. The Pats have averaged 1.27 points (12th) on those possessions. New England has allowed 1.60 points on opponent drives started 80+ yards from paydirt this season, the 4th highest average allowed. However, they’ve shut out their last three opponents on seven such drives.

* - TO BLITZ OR NOT TO BLITZ?: Only 27% of the Colts pass plays have come against blitzes, the 2nd lowest percentage in the league (only the Packers are lower). However, Peyton and company have completed a league high 72% when there is NO blitz (vs 66% vs blitzes) and gained an average of 7.84 yards per pass play against non-blitzes vs a slightly lower 7.78 vs a blitz. Oh, and when the Pats DON’T blitz, opponents are just 17-45 (38%) over the last three games (NFL low) vs 44% (16-36) when they have blitzed (also an NFL low).

* - COLTS DONT BLITZ MUCH: Despite the results (just 58% completions and and league low 4.22 yards per pass play), the Colts don’t blitz much on defense (20% of opponent pass plays; 4th lowest percentage). When they DON’T blitz, opponents have completed 64% for 5.09 yards per pass play. Might be for the best, though, as New England has TORCHED blitzes over the last three games, completing 82% on 33 passes and averaging 12.85 yards per pass play. Both marks are league highs during that span BY FAR (no other team has averaged more than 8.68 yards per pass against blitzes).

* - TWO MINUTE OFFENSE/DEFENSE: Both offenses have been fairly proficient in the two-minute drill, as Indianapolis has scored 20 points in 10 tries while the Pats have 16 points in 9 tries (starting a possession during the final two minutes of a half). However, the Patriots have not allowed a score to an opponent in the two-minute drill in 12 tries.

* - COLTS PASS PROTECTION NOTES: The Colts have allowed just 7 sacks this year, tied (with Tennessee) for the fewest in the NFL… The Colts have 88 pass attempts this season in the 1st quarter without allowing a sack… Finally, they have allowed only 1 sack on 3rd down this season, the fewest in the league (78 third-down pass attempts). The fewest third-down sacks allowed in a full season since 2000 is 2, by the 2006 Colts.

* - PUNTING SUCKS IN PATRIOT GAMES: The Patriots continue to have the worst punting in the NFL with an average of just 38.9 yards. But Pats opponents have punted poorly all season as well, with an NFL-low average of just 40.3 yards.

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.
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL - 2009 PASSING STATS
Week 10 vs Indianapolis Colts

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS PASS OFFENSE - 315 Att / 70% Completions / 8.15 YA / 17 TD / 6 INT

LEFT: 50% of tries / 72% / 8.97 / 5 / 5
MIDDLE: 14% of tries / 75% / 6.32 / 5 / 0
RIGHT: 36% of tries / 67% / 7.73 / 7 / 1

BEHIND LINE: 19% of tries / 84% / 5.20 / 2 / 0
1 TO 10 YDS: 47% of tries / 81% / 7.43 / 7 / 3
11 TO 20 YDS: 21% of tries / 62% / 12.14 / 2 / 2
21 TO 30 YDS: 8 of 24 / 33% / 9.75 / 4 / 1
31 TO 40 YDS: 3 of 16 / 19% / 7.94 / 2 / 0
41+ YDS: 0 of 1 / 0% / 0.00 / 0 / 0

NOTES: Colts rank 2nd in completion percentage (70%) and in TD passes (17)… On passes thrown 1 to 10 yards the Colts have completed 81.1%, the highest percentage on those throws since they began tracking the stat in 1991 (2005 Rams completed 80.4%)… Throwing to the left, the Colts have completed 72% for 8.97 yards/attempt, both league highs. However, their TD/INT ratio is just 5/5 on those throws… On throws to the right side, the completion percentage is just 67% for an average of 7.73 yards/attempt, but the TD/INT ratio is 7/1… Finally, their 44 attempts over the middle leads the NFL as do the 5 TD (and 0 INT) on those throws.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS PASS DEFENSE - 251 Att / 56% Completions / 6.19 YA / 9 TD / 7 INT

LEFT: 45% of tries / 54% / 5.29 / 4 / 4
MIDDLE: 6% of tries / 56% / 5.38 / 1 / 0
RIGHT: 49% of tries / 58% / 7.11 / 4 / 3

BEHIND LINE: 17% of tries / 63% / 4.05 / 1 / 0
1 TO 10 YDS: 51% of tries / 60% / 5.42 / 6 / 3
11 TO 20 YDS: 23% of tries / 56% / 9.53 / 1 / 1
21 TO 30 YDS: 3 of 13 / 23% / 5.31 / 0 / 1
31 TO 40 YDS: 2 of 6 / 33% / 11.33 / 1 / 0
41+ YDS: 0 of 3 / 0% / 0.00 / 0 / 2

NOTES: 56% completions allowed and 6.19 yards allowed/attempt are both 4th best in the NFL… While the Colts lead the league in attempts over the middle, the Patriots have allowed the fewest (16; on pace to allow the fewest such passes since 1994) and the 2nd fewest yards/attempt (5.38) on those throws… The Pats have allowed just 60% completions on throws from 1 to 10 yards, the 2nd lowest in the NFL (note that the Colts are on pace to set a record for highest completion percentage on those passes)… While the Colts offense leads the league with 8.97 yards/attempt on passes to the left side, the Patriots defense leads the NFL, allowing only 5.29 yards/attempt this season.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS PASS OFFENSE - 321 Att / 66% Completions / 7.53 YA / 16 TD / 5 INT

LEFT: 41% of tries / 64% / 7.42 / 6 / 2
MIDDLE: 16% of tries / 73% / 8.39 / 2 / 1
RIGHT: 43% of tries / 67% / 7.31 / 8 / 2

BEHIND LINE: 17% of tries / 76% / 6.17 / 2 / 1
1 TO 10 YDS: 54% of tries / 75% / 6.41 / 5 / 0
11 TO 20 YDS: 19% of tries / 57% / 11.64 / 5 / 1
21 TO 30 YDS: 4 of 16 / 25% / 8.31 / 3 / 1
31 TO 40 YDS: 3 of 9 / 33% / 13.78 / 1 / 0
41+ YDS: 0 of 7 / 0% / 0.00 / 0 / 2

NOTES: 66% completions ranks 6th while 7.53 yards/attempt ranks 9th this season… However, the Pats have completed 75% of their passes over the last 3 games (1st) for 9.40 yards/attempt (2nd)… Neither team has completed a pass thrown 41+ yards this season. At 0-7 on those throws, only the Panthers (0-9) have more 41+ yard throws this season without a completion… New England has gained a first down on 30% of their passes thrown behind the line of scrimmage, the highest mark by any NFL team since 2005.

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS PASS DEFENSE - 296 Att / 63% Completions / 5.79 YA / 4 TD / 9 INT

LEFT: 43% of tries / 61% / 5.35 / 2 / 2
MIDDLE: 8% of tries / 54% / 5.96 / 0 / 0
RIGHT: 49% of tries / 66% / 6.15 / 2 / 7

BEHIND LINE: 22% of tries / 69% / 2.49 / 1 / 0
1 TO 10 YDS: 51% of tries / 66% / 5.33 / 3 / 4
11 TO 20 YDS: 20% of tries / 60% / 10.02 / 0 / 4
21 TO 30 YDS: 3 of 14 / 21% / 5.07 / 0 / 1
31 TO 40 YDS: 2 of 3 / 67% / 31.67 / 0 / 0
41+ YDS: 0 of 5 / 0% / 0.00 / 0 / 0

NOTES: Only 4 TD passes allowed and 1.4% TD passes allowed are both league lows this season… In fact, the Colts have allowed just 10 passing touchdowns in their last 24 games since the start of last season. Every other NFL team has allowed at least 20 passing touchdowns in that span… The Colts have allowed 65 passes behind the line of scrimmage, 3rd most in the league, but have allowed only 2.49 yards/attempt, the lowest average in the league and the lowest by any NFL team since 2004.

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GROUND TRANSFERS - 2009 RUSHING STATS
Week 10 vs Indianapolis Colts

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS RUSHING OFFENSE - 183 Att / 3.73 Avg / 8 TD / 20% First Downs / 11% Stuffs

1st DOWN - 110 / 3.96 / 2 TD / 11% FD / 12% Stuffs
2nd DOWN - 46 / 3.76 / 2 TD / 26% FD / 9% Stuffs
3rd DOWN - 24 / 3.17 / 4 TD / 50% FD / 13% Stuffs

2nd/3rd & SHORT (2 yds or less) - 23 / 3.26 / 5 TD / 65% FD / 4% Stuffs
2nd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 18 / 3.78 / 1 TD / 28% FD / 11% Stuffs
3rd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 6 / 1.67 / 0 TD / 33% FD / 17% Stuffs
2nd & LONG (8+ yds) - 20 / 4.20 / 0 TD / 10% FD / 10% Stuffs
3rd & LONG (8+ yds) - 3 / 4.00 / 0 TD / 0% FD / 33% Stuffs

Versus BLITZ - 11 / 6.55 / 0 TD / 27% FD / 9% Stuffs
Versus 6+ Defenders on Line - 9 / 2.44 / 1 TD / 33% FD / 11% Stuffs

NOTES: It should come as no surprise that the Colts rank poorly (29th) in rushing yards considering their passing prowess. What should be a concern for the Colts is their 3.73 yards per carry (27th)… 60% of the Colts rushing plays have come on 1st down, the 4th highest percentage in the NFL (#1 is last week’s Pats opponent, Miami, at 63%)… Colts have run 23 times on 2nd/3rd and 2 or less, getting the 1st down, 65% of the time (15th).

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS RUSHING DEFENSE - 202 Att / 4.45 Avg / 2 TD / 18% First Downs / 10% Stuffs

1st DOWN - 115 / 4.00 / 2 TD / 10% FD / 11% Stuffs
2nd DOWN - 68 / 5.18 / 0 TD / 25% FD / 9% Stuffs
3rd DOWN - 16 / 5.00 / 0 TD / 44% FD / 6% Stuffs

2nd/3rd & SHORT (2 yds or less) - 16 / 4.38 / 0 TD / 63% FD / 0% Stuffs
2nd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 26 / 3.65 / 0 TD / 19% FD / 12% Stuffs
3rd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 4 / 9.25 / 0 TD / 50% FD / 25% Stuffs
2nd & LONG (8+ yds) - 33 / 6.45 / 0 TD / 18% FD / 9% Stuffs
3rd & LONG (8+ yds) - 5 / 3.40 / 0 TD / 20% FD / 0% Stuffs

Versus BLITZ - 14 / 1.36 / 0 TD / 0% FD / 36% Stuffs
Versus 6+ Defenders on Line - 54 / 3.41 / 0 TD / 22% FD / 6% Stuffs

NOTES: The Pats finally allowed their 2nd rushing TD of the year last week and both have come on 1st down runs… Opponents have run 54 times with 6+ Patriots on the line of scrimmage, the most in the league but have averaged just 3.41 yards/carry (10th lowest average)… Patriots are one of just four teams without a stuff on 2nd/3rd and 2 yards or less this season… On 2nd down rushes, Patriots have allowed 5.18 yards/carry, 2nd highest average in the NFL.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS RUSHING OFFENSE - 221 Att / 4.14 Avg / 8 TD / 22% First Downs / 11% Stuffs

1st DOWN - 116 / 4.21 / 3 TD / 12% FD / 11% Stuffs
2nd DOWN - 72 / 4.51 / 5 TD / 26% FD / 8% Stuffs
3rd DOWN - 29 / 3.38 / 0 TD / 48% FD / 17% Stuffs

2nd/3rd & SHORT (2 yds or less) - 24 / 3.79 / 3 TD / 83% FD / 8% Stuffs
2nd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 35 / 4.60 / 2 TD / 26% FD / 11% Stuffs
3rd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 7 / 3.14 / 0 TD / 14% FD / 0% Stuffs
2nd & LONG (8+ yds) - 29 / 4.41 / 0 TD / 7% FD / 7% Stuffs
3rd & LONG (8+ yds) - 6 / 3.50 / 0 TD / 17% FD / 50% Stuffs

Versus BLITZ - 11 / 5.91 / 0 TD / 27% FD / 9% Stuffs
Versus 6+ Defenders on Line - 12 / 4.00 / 1 TD / 33% FD / 8% Stuffs

NOTES: The Patriots are now 10th in rushing attempts (221) and 18th in yards/carry (4.14)… Their 8 rushing TD is tied (with the Colts) for 11th… New England has rushed on 2nd and short (2 yards or less) eight times this season and have converted the first down all eight times, averaging 4.50 yards/carry… The Pats have run just 11 times against the blitz (2nd fewest), but have averaged 5.91 yards/carry (10th).

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS RUSHING DEFENSE - 201 Att / 4.30 Avg / 6 TD / 20% First Downs / 5% Stuffs

1st DOWN - 98 / 3.82 / 1 TD / 8% FD / 7% Stuffs
2nd DOWN - 72 / 4.96 / 2 TD / 18% FD / 4% Stuffs
3rd DOWN - 30 / 4.23 / 2 TD / 63% FD / 3% Stuffs

2nd/3rd & SHORT (2 yds or less) - 22 / 3.36 / 2 TD / 82% FD / 5% Stuffs
2nd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 33 / 5.45 / 2 TD / 24% FD / 3% Stuffs
3rd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 7 / 6.00 / 0 TD / 57% FD / 0% Stuffs
2nd & LONG (8+ yds) - 35 / 4.49 / 0 TD / 6% FD / 6% Stuffs
3rd & LONG (8+ yds) - 5 / 6.20 / 0 TD / 0% FD / 0% Stuffs

Versus BLITZ - 15 / 2.87 / 0 TD / 13% FD / 13% Stuffs
Versus 6+ Defenders on Line - 19 / 5.47 / 2 TD / 53% FD / 5% Stuffs

NOTES: Opponents have rushed just 98 times on 1st down (4th fewest) and averaged just 3.82 yards/carry on those rushes (8th lowest average)… Opponents are 18-22 (82%) in converting 1st downs on 2nd/3rd and 2 yards or less to go this season… Indy’s defense has just 11 stuffs this season (5% of carries). Both marks are league lows.

Welcome (or, rather, welcome back) to Nuggetpalooza’s Red Sox Reviews!

In 2009, the Red Sox used 52 different players (the 4th time since 2004 that they’ve used 50+).  Over the next 20 weeks or so, I will provide a statistical review of each player. Not just the numbers. You can find those anywhere. I will bring you the stuff that you won’t find anywhere else! The reviews will be posted in reverse order based on playing time. So during November, expect mostly “bit” players. All along, if you see something that you need clarified, or if you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment or fire off an email to gmarbry@weei.com.

GIL VELAZQUEZ - 2009 Batting: 3 PA / 000 BA / 333 OBP / 000 SLG / 333 OPS

* - Has come to the plate 11 times over the last two seasons and has not struck out or walked, the most PA in the majors without doing one or the other. He’s tied for 2nd most career PA without a K or BB (since 1970). Jim Kennedy, a shortstop for the Cardinals in 1970, ended his (one year) career with 24 plate appearances, no strikeouts, and no walks.

["Hey! Where are you going? Well... YOU try finding anything earthshaking when you have 11 plate appearances over two seasons to work with!"]

DUSTY BROWN - 2009 Batting: 3 PA / 000 BA / 333 OBP / 000 SLG / 333 OPS

* - Brown caught just 12 innings but recorded 2 assists, one on a nubber and one to complete the strikeout on a dropped 3rd strike. So, how about some insight into dropped third strikes:

Most “Dropped” Strikeouts (Completed By Throw To 1B) - 2009

34 - Bengie Molina, SF
32 - Russell Martin, LAD
29 - Yadier Molina, STL
27 - Miguel Montero, ARI
25 - Jeff Mathis, LAA

Lowest % Of Strikeouts “Dropped” - 2009 (min. 400 Strikeouts)

0.17% - Ivan Rodriguez, HOU (1 out of 582)
0.41% - Omir Santos, NYM (2 out of 484)
0.65% - Matt Wieters, BAL (3 out of 456)

CHRIS CARTER - 2009 Batting: 6 PA / 000 BA / 000 OBP / 000 SLG / 000 OPS

* - Most PA In A Season - Never Reached Base - Boston Red Sox:

11 - Gary Gaetti, 2000
9 - Rick Lancelotti, 1990
8 - Hoot Evers, 1954
8 - Ed Connolly, 1929
7 - Lee Graham, 1983
6 - Chris Carter, 2009
6 - Royce Clayton, 2007
6 - Doug Griffin, 1977
6 - Heywood Sullivan, 1955

* - Carter was one of 5 major leaguers that failed to record a hit in 2009 but did drive in at least one run. That group includes the Astros’ Jason Smith, who went 0-25 this season, but did have a sacrifice fly.

* - Carter was drafted in the 17th round of the 2004 draft and is one of only 7 position players to play in the majors from the 17th round or later of that draft. Here are the others in addition to Carter:

Chris Giminez, Indians (19th)
JR Towles, Astros (20th)
Wyatt Toregas, Indians (24th)
Justin Ruggiano, Dodgers (25th)
Tyler Flowers, Braves (27th)
Chris Davis, Yankees (50th)

AARON BATES - 2009 Batting: 12 PA / 364 BA / 417 OBP / 545 SLG / 962 OPS

* - Bates did quite a lot with the 12 plate appearances that he got in 2009:

LAST 4 RED SOX WITH 12 OR FEWER PA IN A SEASON BUT 6+ TOTAL BASES AND 2+ RBI:

Aaron Bates, 2009 (12 PA / 6 TB / 2 RBI)
Adam Hyzdu, 2004 (11 PA / 8 TB / 2 RBI)
Juan Diaz, 2002 (8 PA / 6 TB / 2 RBI)
Ted Williams, 1952 (12 PA / 9 TB / 3 RBI)

1952 was the year that Williams was called into service for the Korean War on May 1.

* - Bates obviously bought into the Red Sox’ “Patience at the Plate” mantra. Bates saw 4+ pitches in each of his first 10 plate appearances and he never put a first pitch in play. He reached 2 strikes in 10 of his 12 plate appearances (83%), the highest percentage in the league:

2009 HIGHEST % OF PA REACHING 2 STRIKES (Min. 10 PA; Non-Pitchers Only)

83% - Aaron Bates, BOS (10-12)
80% - Shelley Duncan, NYY (12-15)
74% - Brian Bixler, PIT (34-46)

* - Bates put 7 balls in play last season and 3 of them (43%) were classified as line drives.

JONATHAN VAN EVERY - 2009 Batting: 13 PA / 364 BA / 462 OBP / 636 SLG / 1,098 OPS

* - Van Every now has 8 RBI in just 28 career at bats (3.50 AB/RBI), the 3rd highest career mark since 1952 (min. 25 career AB; keep that in mind):

2.97 - Ron Northey (1952-57; 39 RBI in 116 AB)
3.11 - Bob Skube (1982-83; 9 RBI in 28 AB)
3.50 - Jonathan Van Every (2008-09; 8 RBI in 28 AB)

Ranking 6th is the Phillies’ Ryan Howard, who is averaging an RBI every 4.20 AB even after 2,687 career AB.

* - Van Every is 5 for 9 (.545) with 7 RBI in his career with two or more runners on base and a perfect 2-2 with the bases loaded (1 for 1 in each of the last two seasons). He is one of 63 major leaguers since 1974 to have two different seasons with a 1.000 batting average with the bases loaded. Van Every is the only Red Sox.

* - Van Every is 2-2 with a HR and a 3.500 OPS in extra innings. He is one of four major leaguers with a MLB-career-high 3.500 OPS and more than one career AB in extra innings (along with Esix Snead, Jake Fox, and Jerry Brooks).  Just for fun, below are the REAL leaders in extra inning hitting:

HIGHEST CAREER OPS IN EXTRA INNINGS SINCE 1974 (min. 50 such PA):

1.320 - Adam Dunn (.364 average; 9 HR in 87 PA)
1.304 - Carlos Pena (.353 average; 7 HR in 66 PA)
1.262 - Albert Pujols (.324 average; 11 HR in 89 PA)

DID YOU KNOW?: Jack Clark hit 18 HR in extra innings during his career. No other player has more than 12 such HR since 1974. And the two guys with 12 (Mark McGwire and Rafael Palmeiro) stir controversy, so I’ll let you decide on them.

Be sure to check back soon for the next installment of Red Sox Reviews!

Some items I found while combing the Celtics boxscores from Friday and Saturday night’s games:

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6 - PHOENIX SUNS 110 BOSTON CELTICS 103

* - For just the 5th time in the Garnett/Allen/Pierce era, the Celtics allowed 110+ points at home. They are 1-4 in those games.

* - The Celtics entered Friday with a 51-2 record since start of ‘07-’08 season when they scored 103 or more points at home. Counting Friday’s loss, Boston has the NBA’s 3rd best record when scoring 100+ points at home over the last 2+ seasons:

1.000 - San Antonio Spurs (38-0)

.955 - New Orleans Hornets (42-2)

.944 - Boston Celtics (51-3)

NBA home teams have won 77% of games when they score 100 or more points since the start of the 2007-2008 season.

* - Phoenix’ Jason Richardson went 6-7 from three point range on Friday, becoming the 3rd opposing player since 2005 to make 6 or more three-pointers with just 1 or fewer misses. The Celtics have lost all three of those games. The other two were Feb. 21, 2007, when Phoenix’s Leandro Barbosa made 6 of 7, and Dec. 17, 2005, then Chicago’s Chris Duhon went 6-7.

* - Phoenix shot 50.0% from the field and 54.2% from three on Friday. Since 1986, Boston is now 3-23 when an opponent shoots 50% or better from the field AND from three point range (with 10+ threes). They’ve given up 110+ points in 18 of those 26 games.

* - Rasheed Wallace was 0-6 on three-point attempts, just the 3rd time that he has gone 0-6 or worse in his career:
Friday - (0-6)
12/31/06 - (0-7)
2/24/06 - (0-8)

* - Boston mananged just 50% free throw shooting on Friday. When Celtics have shot 50% or worse from the free throw stripe at home, they’ve now lost 13 of 14 dating back to 12/26/93.

* - Of course, in order to shoot 52% for the game from the floor despite the poor showing (4-18) from behind the arc, the Celtics were very good at making their two-point shots (59.4%; 41-69). Only once since the ‘04 season have they shot better on two-pointers and lost at home: January 7, 2005, when they lost, 110-104 to Detroit despite shooting 62.1% (36-58) from two point range. One more note: On March 11, 2009, the Houston Rockets shot 70.8% (34-48) on 2’s, but lost to the Lakers, 102-86, the highest 2-pt shooting percentage by an NBA team in a home loss since the start of the ‘04 season.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 - BOSTON CELTICS 86 NEW JERSEY NETS 76

* - Boston recorded 20 steals on Saturday, just the 4th time in the last 23 seasons (at least) that they’ve had 20+ thefts in a game. It’s the only such game in the NBA so far this season. There was one last season (Portland got 21 against Washington on January 24) and one the previous season (Boston got 20 against Denver). One other note: The 86 points is the fewest by a winning team with 20+ steals in a game in at least 23 seasons and the fewest by ANY team with 20+ steals since the Celtics scored just 82 points despite 20 steals on January 10, 1998 at Orlando.

* - Boston’s 10% three-point shooting on Saturday made them just 10-47 (21.3%) from three over the last three games. Since the start of the ‘04 season, they’ve had only two worse three-game stretches:

19.5% - March 26-30, 2007 (9-41)
21.1% - December 5-9, 2004 (7-33)
21.3% - November 4-7, 2009 (10-47)

* - Paul Pierce played 32 minutes Saturday but failed to grab a rebound, just the 3rd time in his career that he’s been shut out on the boards despite 32+ minutes. Once in ‘07, once in ‘08, and now once this season. And the C’s are 3-0 in those games.

MOST GAMES WITH 32+ MINUTES PLAYED AND ZERO REBOUNDS SINCE START OF ‘06-’07 SEASON (FORWARDS/CENTERS ONLY)

4 - Kyle Korver
3 - Paul Pierce
3 - Shane Battier
3 - Gerald Wallace

* - Rasheed Wallace went 0-4 from beyond the arc, following an 0-6 night on Friday. It’s the first time since November, 2003 that Wallace has been unable to make a three-pointer despite 4+ attempts in back-to-back games.

* - Ray Allen went 0-3 on three-pointers Saturday, making him 5-20 (25%) this season on zero days rest. Although it’s early in the season, it’s the 2nd lowest such percentage in the league (min. 10 attempts on 0 days rest):

23.1% - Manu Genobli, SA (3-13)
25.0% - Ray Allen, BOS (5-20)
26.3% - Rasheed Wallace, BOS (5-19)

With 1+ days rest, Allen is 7-15 (46.7%) and Wallace is 12-31 (38.7%). As a matter of fact, the Celtics team is shooting just 29.3% on threes on zero days rest (23rd in the league) and 46.9% with 1 or more days rest:

NBA TEAM 3-POINT SHOOTING - 1 OR MORE DAYS REST - 2009

48.9% - Phoenix Suns
46.9% - Boston Celtics
43.0% - Cleveland Cavaliers

With the bye week behind them, the Patriots will play the next nine straight weeks looking not only to nail down a playoff spot, but also eyeing a high seed and home game(s) in January. They come in playing at a high level, even considering their soft recent schedule. Their passing game is humming. The running attack has been serviceable. And the defense appears to be better than originally thought and much improved from last season.

This Sunday, Miami brings their big-time running attack to Foxboro, which will be difficult to stop. However, the Dolphins also bring a porous pass defense that should be exploitable for Brady and Company.

Here are some other statistical nuggets regarding New England and Miami that caught my eye (followed as always by Air Traffic Control and Ground Transfers):

* - New England is winning the fumbles exacta for 2009 so far. They have fumbled less often (0.66% of their offensive touches) and forced fumbles more often (2.78% of opponent touches) than any team in the NFL. The last team to lead the league in lowest fumble rate and highest rate of fumbles forced was Tennessee in 1999. You might remember that team (I know Bills fans do) for a somewhat memorable kickoff return in the playoffs that season (”He’s got something. He’s got something. He’s got it. HE’S GOT IT! THERE ARE NO FLAGS ON THE FIELD!”).

* - The Patriots have been sacked just once all season against blitzes (in 107 pass plays). However, they’ve been sacked 7 times (in 185 pass plays) when there is no blitz. Conversely, Miami has been sacked 9 times versus blitzes (out of just 81 pass plays) and 12 times when there was no blitz (in 143 pass plays).

* - In the last two games, the Pats have punished blitzes to the tune of 15 for 17 (88%) for 13.76 yards per attempt and 5 touchdowns. This success may explain why they’ve only seen blitzes on 21% of their pass plays, the lowest percentage in the NFL during the past three weeks. Of course, New England’s pass offense torched Tennessee and Tampa Bay even when they didn’t blitz, completing 77%.

* - The Dolphins are one of only two teams (Cleveland is the other) that have yet to throw a touchdown pass against a blitz this year.

* - While on defense, the Pats have blitzed on 40% of opponent pass plays this season (just 14th most often), but have allowed only 4.32 yards per attempt when they blitz (3rd) and 6.18 yards when they don’t blitz (15th). Miami blitzes at about the same rate as New England (41%) and gives up 5.81 yards per attempt when they blitz (17th) and a league worst 7.94 yards when they don’t blitz.

* - Don’t expect too many long completions from the Dolphins. They have just 10 pass plays of 20+ yards this season (3rd fewest in the league) while the Pats have allowed only 13 such completions (also 3rd fewest in the league).

* - On the season, Miami’s defense has allowed 27 completions that gained 20+ yards (4th most) and those plays have made up 53% of all passing yards against the Dolphins this year, the highest percentage in the NFL.

* - New England has allowed just 11 drives of 10+ plays this year (tied for the 12th fewest in the league so far), but their opponent has scored points on 10 of those 11 drives (91%), the 2nd highest percentage in the NFL.

* - Offensively, New England leads the NFL with 19 drives of 10+ plays, halfway to last year’s league leading total of 38 and have averaged 4.0 points on those drives (11th). But note that Miami has allowed an average of just 2.2 points on the 10 such drives by their opponents, the 3rd best mark. This was weird: On the 59 Patriot possessions that have lasted FEWER than 10 plays, New England has averaged 2.9 points, the highest average on such drives in the NFL:

2.90 - New England Patriots
2.88 - Indianapolis Colts
2.76 - New Orleans Saints

* - The Pats have gained 4+ yards on first down a ridiculous 71% of the time in their last 2 games (45 out of 63), by far the highest percentage in the league in that span (Pittsburgh is 2nd at 56%). That has brought their season-to-date percentage to 57%, also first in the NFL. Miami has been effective as well on first down, gaining 4+ yards on 52% of their tries (ranked 4th), but have just been successful 46% of the time over their last two games. Defensively, the Pats have allowed 4+ yard gains on first down 45% of the time this season (13th), but just 30% (4th) in their last two contests.

* - New England has gained 10+ yards on 20% of their first down plays (43 out of 220), just the 12th highest percentage in the league. But Miami has done it just 11% of the time (22 out of 192), the lowest percentage in the NFL. It’s been even worse (3 out of 46; 7%) in the Dolphins’ last two games. Miami ranked 2nd in this category last season.

* - Both teams have been very good at preventing conversions on 2nd and short (5 yards or less) this season. Miami has allowed just 32% conversions (the best percentage in the league) while New England has allowed 42% (4th best). Compare those to the Carolina Panthers, who have been the NFL’s worst at preventing those conversions (65%).

* - And after they’ve stoned their opponents on 2nd and short, they’ve both been very good on 3rd and short (5 yards or less) as well.  Miami has allowed 39% conversions (3rd) to New England’s 40% (4th). So which offense has converted 3rd and short the best? Miami (77%) has been the NFL’s best so far, while the Patriots (53%) rank 14th.

* - The Dolphins offense went 3 and out six times last week against the Jets. The Pats have gone 3 and out just 13 times all season (7 games).

* - In the Patriots’ last two games, only 11 of their 77 passes were considered uncatchable, an accuracy percentage of 85.7%, the highest in the league over the past three weeks. After a slow start, their season-to-date accuracy percentage is now 72.5%, 5th best in the league. Pittsburgh (mostly Rothlisberger) has the top accuracy percentage (75.6%) while the Jets (behind Sanchez) have the worst (57.0%).

* - Both teams have done well recently in winning the field position battle as the Pats have had the best average starting field position in the league over the last three weeks (two games), starting at the 40. Miami has started at the 34 over that span (5th).

* - Part of Miami’s field position success comes from their ability to limit opposing kickoff returners. Miami has allowed only 2 kickoff returns of 30+ yards this season. Only Cleveland and Tampa Bay (1 each) have allowed fewer and let’s face it, neither of those teams kicks off very often.

* - Last week, Miami’s Ted Ginn returned 2 kickoffs for touchdowns against the Jets. The Patriots have not allowed a kickoff return for a touchdown this season, but allowed 2 last season and one in 2007.

Longest Current NFL Streaks Without Allowing A Kickoff Return For A Touchdown:

90 games - Green Bay Packers (12/7/2003 vs Bears)
66 games- Seattle Seahawks (10/9/2005 vs Rams)
56 games - Cincinnati Bengals (12/24/2005 vs Bills)

* - The Patriots are averaging 23.9 first downs per game so far this season. Not only does that lead the league, but only one team since 2005 had a higher average per game: The Patriots of 2007 (24.6).

* - New England has gained 17 first downs via penalty this season, the most in the league, while Miami has just 3 such first downs, the fewest in the league and the lowest average per game (0.42) since at least 2000. The Patriots had just 25 first downs by penalty during all of last year, so they are well ahead of last season’s pace.

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AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL - 2009 STATS
Week 9 vs Miami Dolphins

MIAMI DOLPHINS PASS OFFENSE - 203 Att / 62% Completions / 5.94 YA / 5 TD / 5 INT

LEFT: 46% of tries / 63% / 6.81 / 1 / 3
MIDDLE: 8% of tries / 41% / 3.41 / 0 / 0
RIGHT: 45% of tries / 65% / 5.51 / 4 / 2

BEHIND LINE: 25% of tries / 70% / 4.60 / 0 / 0
1 TO 10 YDS: 47% of tries / 73% / 6.09 / 4 / 2
11 TO 20 YDS: 16% of tries / 56% / 9.03 / 0 / 1
21 TO 30 YDS: 2 of 15 / 13% / 3.20 / 0 / 2
31 TO 40 YDS: 0 of 5 / 0% / 0.00 / 0 / 0
41+ YDS: 1 of 5 / 20% / 10.60 / 1 / 0

NOTES: 203 total pass attempts by Dolphins is 2nd fewest in NFL… Completion percentage (62%) ranks a respectable 13th, their yards/attempt (5.94) is 26th… Have gained a first down on 44% of their 1 to 10 yard passes, the 2nd highest percentage in the league… 53% of Miami’s passing yards have come on passes to the left, the 2nd highest percentage in the league.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS PASS DEFENSE - 214 Att / 57% Completions / 6.23 YA / 8 TD / 7 INT

LEFT: 45% of tries / 54% / 5.30 / 3 / 4
MIDDLE: 7% of tries / 64% / 6.14 / 1 / 0
RIGHT: 49% of tries / 58% / 7.10 / 4 / 3

BEHIND LINE: 17% of tries / 64% / 4.28 / 1 / 0
1 TO 10 YDS: 52% of tries / 61% / 5.59 / 5 / 3
11 TO 20 YDS: 22% of tries / 53% / 8.98 / 1 / 1
21 TO 30 YDS: 3 of 11 / 27% / 6.27 / 0 / 1
31 TO 40 YDS: 2 of 6 / 33% / 11.33 / 1 / 0
41+ YDS: 0 of 3 / 0% / 0.00 / 0 / 2

NOTES: The Pats’ pass defense has allowed just 57% completions (4th best) and 6.23 yards per attempt (3rd best) this season… 14 opponent attempts over the middle is the fewest in the league… 54% completions allowed on passes thrown to the left (see Miami comment above) is the 4th lowest in the NFL and 5.30 yards/attempt on those throws is the 3rd lowest allowed… Opponents have thrown 3 bombs of 41+ yards and the Patriots have intercepted two of them.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS PASS OFFENSE - 284 Att / 66% Completions / 7.34 YA / 15 TD / 4 INT

LEFT: 42% of tries / 64% / 7.03 / 5 / 2
MIDDLE: 17% of tries / 73% / 8.58 / 2 / 0
RIGHT: 41% of tries / 66% / 7.14 / 8 / 2

BEHIND LINE: 17% of tries / 76% / 6.18 / 2 / 1
1 TO 10 YDS: 55% of tries / 75% / 6.50 / 5 / 0
11 TO 20 YDS: 18% of tries / 54% / 10.50 / 4 / 1
21 TO 30 YDS: 4 of 14 / 29% / 9.50 / 3 / 1
31 TO 40 YDS: 2 of 8 / 25% / 11.00 / 1 / 0
41+ YDS: 0 of 5 / 0% / 0.00 / 0 / 1

NOTES: Patriots have thrown 48 passes over the middle (1st), completed 73% (6th), for 8.58 yards/attempt (7th)… Their last interception on a throw over the middle was last December 14 vs Oakland… 59 first downs gained on short passes (1 to 10 yards) leads the league… Pats have 3 TD on 14 throws of 21 to 30 yards (21%), the highest percentage in the NFL.

MIAMI DOLPHINS PASS DEFENSE - 215 Att / 57% Completions / 8.20 YA / 9 TD / 6 INT

LEFT: 39% of tries / 55% / 9.54 / 2 / 2
MIDDLE: 10% of tries / 64% / 11.09 / 1 / 0
RIGHT: 51% of tries / 56% / 6.60 / 6 / 4

BEHIND LINE: 20% of tries / 67% / 4.53 / 0 / 1
1 TO 10 YDS: 42% of tries / 58% / 5.76 / 6 / 2
11 TO 20 YDS: 25% of tries / 57% / 11.60 / 3 / 1
21 TO 30 YDS: 5 of 17 / 29% / 10.06 / 0 / 2
31 TO 40 YDS: 3 of 7 / 43% / 15.43 / 0 / 0
41+ YDS: 3 of 5 / 60% / 31.00 / 0 / 0

NOTES: 8.20 yards per pass attempt is the 2nd highest mark in the league… 3 completions allowed on throws of 41+ yards is the most in the NFL as is the completion percentage allowed on those throws (60%)… Allowed just 58% completions on short passes (1 to 10 yards), the lowest percentage in the league… Allowed 11.60 yards/attempt on intermediate throws of 11 to 20 yards, 4th highest in the NFL.

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GROUND TRANSFERS - 2009 STATS
Week 9 vs Miami Dolphins

MIAMI DOLPHINS RUSHING OFFENSE - 236 Att / 4.55 Avg / 12 TD / 29% First Downs / 10% Stuffs

1st DOWN - 115 / 5.85 / 6 TD / 17% FD / 10% Stuffs
2nd DOWN - 87 / 3.24 / 1 TD / 28% FD / 10% Stuffs
3rd DOWN - 32 / 3.66 / 4 TD / 72% FD / 9% Stuffs

2nd/3rd & SHORT (2 yds or less) - 32 / 3.53 / 4 TD / 84% FD / 3% Stuffs
2nd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 47 / 2.94 / 1 TD / 28% FD / 11% Stuffs
3rd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 4 / 4.00 / 0 TD / 25% FD / 25% Stuffs
2nd & LONG (8+ yds) - 29 / 3.72 / 0 TD / 14% FD / 10% Stuffs
3rd & LONG (8+ yds) - 7 / 3.43 / 0 TD / 29% FD / 29% Stuffs

Versus BLITZ - 13 / 1.38 / 0 TD / 8% FD / 23% Stuffs
Versus 6+ Defenders on Line - 29 / 2.97 / 2 TD / 21% FD / 14% Stuffs

NOTES: Miami is 3rd in the NFL in rush attempts (236) and 1st in rushing first downs (68)… They’ve averaged 5.85 yards/carry on 1st down (2nd), gaining another first down on 17% of those carries (3rd)… On 3rd and short (2 yards or less), they have gotten the first down on 20 of 21 tries (95%), the best percentage in the NFL… Versus blitzes, the ‘Fins have averaged just 1.38 yards/carry (31st) on 13 tries.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS RUSHING DEFENSE - 171 Att / 4.48 Avg / 1 TD / 18% First Downs / 9% Stuffs

1st DOWN - 99 / 4.24 / 1 TD / 10% FD / 10% Stuffs
2nd DOWN - 57 / 4.95 / 0 TD / 26% FD / 9% Stuffs
3rd DOWN - 13 / 4.54 / 0 TD / 38% FD / 8% Stuffs

2nd/3rd & SHORT (2 yds or less) - 13 / 3.85 / 0 TD / 62% FD / 0% Stuffs
2nd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 23 / 3.39 / 0 TD / 17% FD / 13% Stuffs
3rd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 4 / 9.25 / 0 TD / 50% FD / 25% Stuffs
2nd & LONG (8+ yds) - 26 / 6.15 / 0 TD / 19% FD / 8% Stuffs
3rd & LONG (8+ yds) - 4 / 4.00 / 0 TD / 25% FD / 0% Stuffs

Versus BLITZ - 12 / 2.00 / 0 TD / 0% FD / 25% Stuffs
Versus 6+ Defenders on Line - 46 / 3.41 / 0 TD / 20% FD / 7% Stuffs

NOTES: Patriots have allowed just 1 rushing TD (fewest in the league) and just 17% of opponent carries have resulted in first downs (3rd best)… 46 opponent rushes have come against a New England 6-man front (the most against any team in a 6+ man front) and opponents have been relatively successful on those carries, averaging 3.41 yards/carry (12th highest average allowed)… On 3rd and short (2 yards or less), opponents have very few carries (5), but have gotten the 1st down just twice (40%), the lowest percentage in the NFL. Check out the Miami comment on 3rd and short above and THAT should be an interesting matchup.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS RUSHING OFFENSE - 197 Att / 4.09 Avg / 7 TD / 23% First Downs / 13% Stuffs

1st DOWN - 103 / 4.23 / 2 TD / 13% FD / 13% Stuffs
2nd DOWN - 65 / 4.46 / 5 TD / 28% FD / 9% Stuffs
3rd DOWN - 25 / 3.04 / 0 TD / 48% FD / 20% Stuffs

2nd/3rd & SHORT (2 yds or less) - 22 / 3.59 / 3 TD / 82% FD / 9% Stuffs
2nd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 32 / 4.53 / 2 TD / 25% FD / 13% Stuffs
3rd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 6 / 2.67 / 0 TD / 17% FD / 0% Stuffs
2nd & LONG (8+ yds) - 25 / 4.36 / 0 TD / 8% FD / 8% Stuffs
3rd & LONG (8+ yds) - 5 / 3.40 / 0 TD / 20% FD / 60% Stuffs

Versus BLITZ - 11 / 5.91 / 0 TD / 27% FD / 9% Stuffs
Versus 6+ Defenders on Line - 9 / 4.00 / 1 TD / 44% FD / 11% Stuffs

NOTES: This aspect of New England’s attack has been very average thus far, ranking 16th in carries, 18th in average yards/carry (4.09), and 10th in first down percentage (12%)… They have run for 5 touchdowns on 2nd down, the most in the league.

MIAMI DOLPHINS RUSHING DEFENSE - 180 Att / 3.59 Avg / 8 TD / 17% First Downs / 11% Stuffs

1st DOWN - 110 / 3.52 / 6 TD / 9% FD / 8% Stuffs
2nd DOWN - 59 / 3.66 / 1 TD / 25% FD / 12% Stuffs
3rd DOWN - 8 / 0.50 / 1 TD / 38% FD / 50% Stuffs

2nd/3rd & SHORT (2 yds or less) - 8 / 2.13 / 0 TD / 50% FD / 13% Stuffs
2nd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 24 / 4.08 / 1 TD / 38% FD / 13% Stuffs
3rd & MEDIUM (3 to 7 yds) - 4 / -0.50 / 1 TD / 25% FD / 50% Stuffs
2nd & LONG (8+ yds) - 28 / 3.68 / 0 TD / 11% FD / 11% Stuffs
3rd & LONG (8+ yds) - 3 / 1.33 / 0 TD / 33% FD / 67% Stuffs

Versus BLITZ - 7 / 4.86 / 0 TD / 57% FD / 29% Stuffs
Versus 6+ Defenders on Line - 30 / 3.00 / 0 TD / 20% FD / 7% Stuffs

NOTES: 3.59 yards/carry allowed is 5th best in the league and 17% first downs allowed is 3rd best… Opponents have rushed for a total of 4 yards on 8 third down carries (0.50 average), the fewest such carries and the lowest average allowed in the NFL… Their 3.52 average allowed on 1st down carries is 4th best in the league, but their 6 TD’s allowed on 1st down is the 4th most… Opponents have gained 10+ yards on 1st down runs just 6 times in 110 tries (5%), the lowest percentage in the NFL.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3 - BOSTON CELTICS   105    PHILADELPHIA 76ERS   74

* - Celtics’ streak of 27 consecutive quarters scoring 20+ points ended on Tuesday night when the Celtics managed just 19 in the first quarter. Of course, they scored 11 points in the final three minutes of the quarter to get to 19.

* - Ray Allen scored just 5 points in almost 31 minutes of playing time. It was the 4th time that he had scored 5 points or fewer while playing 30+ minutes in his career. Three of those have come since January 1, 2008.

* - Kevin Garnett scored 3 points in 23 minutes. It was just the 3rd time that Garnett has played 23+ minutes and scored 3 points or fewer in his career and the first time since 1996.

* - Boston’s bench went 13-16 from three, had just 1 turnover, and scored 62 points in 108 minutes. The Boston bench shot .704 (24-34) from the field, the first time that a Celtic bench has shot .700 or better while getting 20+ attempts since December 21, 1996, when the C’s bench went 17-22 against the Nets.

MOST 3-POINTERS BY BENCH IN NBA GAME SINCE 1991-92

14 - Denver Nuggets (3/16/08 vs Seattle)

14 - Sacramento Kings (3/30/99 vs Utah)

13 - Boston Celtics (11/3/09 vs Philadelphia)

13 - Milwaukee Bucks (3/25/09 vs Toronto)

13 - Orlando Magic (3/26/95 vs Golden State)

13 - Toronto Raptors (3/13/05 vs Philadelphia)

HIGHEST 3-POINT PERCENTAGE BY BENCH IN NBA GAME SINCE 1991-92 (min. 12 attempts)

.813 - Boston Celtics (11/3/09 vs Philadelphia; 13-16)

.786 - Phoenix Suns (1/7/08 vs Denver; 11-14)

.786 - Portland Trailblazers (4/15/09 vs Denver; 11-14)

.769 - Done three times; Most recently by Dallas (2/1/03 vs Denver; 10-13)

CELTICS - MOST BENCH MINUTES WITH 1 OR 0 TURNOVERS IN A GAME SINCE 1991-92

108 - Nov. 3, 2009 vs Philadelphia (1 turnover)

108 - Apr. 4, 1996 vs Orlando (1)

100 - Mar. 27, 1994 vs Philadelphia (1)

* - 76ers went 1-16 from three and shot just .363 from the field. It was just the 6th time that the Sixers have shot less than 10% on 3-pointers (min. 15 attempts) at home since 1991 and they are 0-7 in those games. It was also the 17th time dating back to 2003 that the Sixers have shot 36% or worse at home and they’ve lost all 17 of those games.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 - BOSTON CELTICS   92    MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES    90

* - Rajon Rondo led the team with 16 FG attempts (making 8). It was the 12th time that Rondo has led (or tied) for the most FG attempts in a game since the start of last season and Boston is a perfect 12-0 in those games, including 5-0 on the road.

* - Celtics won on the road despite shooting just .446 from the floor and .263 (5-19) from three. They had lost their last 5 road games (dating back to last November) in which they had shot that poorly.

* - Rasheed Wallace attempted 7 three-pointers (making 2) and no two-pointers. It’s just the 2nd time in his career that he has attempted 7 or more three-pointers and no two-pointers. Both have come this season already.

* - The Timberwolves shot .520 from the floor at home but lost for just the 8th time in the last 13+ seasons. Since the 1996-97 season, Minnesota is now 77-8 at home when they shoot 52% or better.

* - After holding Minnesota to 2-11 from three, opponents are now shooting just .247 from beyond the arc against Boston this season, the lowest percentage in the league so far:

.247 - Boston Celtics

.265 - Miami Heat

.280 - Los Angeles Lakers

* - Wednesday marked the 12th consecutive regular season game in which the Celtics have failed to make a three-pointer during the first three minutes of the game. They are a combined 0-6 from the bonusphere in that span.