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Patriots Blog: Belichick Praises Players

FOXBORO (CBS) - Proud of his players after a very tough victory, Patriots head coach Bill Belichick did something reporters don't normally see him do on Sunday night.

In the press conference following New England's 37-16 win over the Jets, he applauded his players for their toughness and perseverance.

"Really, everybody that dressed tonight played a huge role in the victory," Belichick said. "All the credit needs to go to the players. ... They were the better team tonight."

Read: Belichick Mocks Jets D After Win

The team had injuries coming into the game and saw key players go down during it.  Offensive guard Brian Waters went down but was able to return. Already without safety Patrick Chung, the secondary suffered a huge blow when Devin McCourty went down with a separated shoulder. It looks like the corner is going to be out for some time.

It made no difference though, as guys stepped up and the Pats did more than enough to secure the victory.

"Who knows who will be playing where, but I know one thing. These guys are tough; mentally and physically," Belichick said of his players. "They'll stand up to the challenge and give their best. That counts for a lot. The game's not too big for them."

Read: Brady Makes History In Win Over Jets

That means a lot, since he is talking about mostly undrafted free agents and practice squad players.

The Patriots started 10 undrafted free agents on Sunday, but none of that seemed to matter.

Tune in to the Patriots-Chiefs Monday Night showdown on 98.5 The Sports Hub. Pregame coverage begins at 5 pm, and after the game tune in to the postgame show on 98.5, and Patriots Fifth Quarter on My TV38.

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