Gonzalez Struggles as Packers Rout Patriots 45-27

On November 8, the Green Bay Packers beat the New England Patriots 45-27 at Gillette Stadium, scoring more points there than any visiting team had previously allowed the Patriots. New England’s defense struggled throughout, and cornerback Christian Gonzalez was a major part of the breakdowns against Green Bay’s receivers.

Christian Watson and Matthew Golden combined for 18 receptions, 335 yards and two touchdowns. Gonzalez gave up seven catches for 105 yards to Golden and three catches for 82 yards to Watson, according to Next Gen Stats. His 187 yards allowed in coverage ranked third among individual players this season, the outlet’s figures showed.

Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said the team needed more from Gonzalez and its other players, while also taking responsibility for the team’s preparation and execution. Gonzalez said he had a bad game, acknowledged he needed to finish plays, and said he would move on and prepare for the next week.

The performance came after Gonzalez had allowed just 196 yards in coverage across his first six games of the season. He had missed two games with a shoulder injury and had not recorded a pass breakup in his previous three games before facing Green Bay. The Patriots managed 387 yards of offense, while quarterback Drake Maye threw three interceptions.