Film Room

Just when it seems as if every team in the league is spreading the field and putting the quarterback in shotgun, the Patriots are winning with an old-school attack. Derrik Klassen shows how fullbacks, tight ends, pre-snap motion, and play-action passing have been so effective for New England -- and why the Rams seem ill-prepared for such a scheme.

The New England Patriots used disguised blitzes and coverage schemes to pressure Philip Rivers and Patrick Mahomes and blanket all their receivers in their first two playoff wins. That could be bad news for the L.A. Rams and their quarterback, who struggled with blitz reads against the Saints.

New England doesn't have the fantasy superstars or explosive playmakers that Kansas City has -- but they do have the kind of versatile pieces and deceptive schemes that will give the Chiefs headaches on Sunday.

Take a young Pro Bowler such as Zach Ertz, add a second-round rookie in Dallas Goedert, and you get one of the the NFL's most versatile and dangerous personnel groups. Few teams can match up with Philadelphia's 12 personnel, and they're the Eagles' best bet at another playoff upset this weekend.

Two weeks ago, Los Angeles scored only 10 points in a loss to Baltimore that ultimately cost them home-field advantage in the AFC playoffs. Derrik Klassen examines how the Chargers can reverse strategic mistakes and overcome injuries when the two teams meet again in the wild-card round this weekend.

Derrik Klassen grinds the tape and shows that the defensive improvement in Indianapolis is legitimate -- and why it may still not be enough to win games in the postseason.

A New Orleans offense that looked unstoppable for 11 games has now scored only four touchdowns in its last three outings. Derrik Klassen looks at everything that has gone wrong with the offensive line, Drew Brees' performance, and Sean Payton's play calling.

In a year when offenses are running wild like never before, one defense stands out from the pack as the best in the league -- and it's not just because they traded for Khalil Mack. Derrik Klassen shows how the stars in Chicago's secondary are just as important as their pass-rushers.

The Broncos' three-game winning streak has been keyed by an undrafted rookie running back and an offensive line full of backups and journeymen. Derrik Klassen shows how Bill Musgrave has found a home for his misfit toys.

With Joe Flacco on the shelf, the Ravens have been forced to play their rookie quarterback earlier than they might have wanted to -- but that hasn't stopped them to tailoring their offense to make the most of his unique talents. Derrik Klassen shows how Marty Mornhinweg has put Jackson's mobility on display.