MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Linebacker Albert McClellan has been with the Patriots for just over a month — he was signed on November 7 — but on Sunday, he showed why he was a man in demand after he was cut loose by the Ravens.
McClellan blocked a pair of Miami punts in the first half and did more than his share when it came to providing the Patriots with excellent field position in the early going. It was the second and third blocked punts on the season for New England, which has now tied a franchise record for most blocked punts in a year. (Dont’a Hightower blocked a punt at Chicago on Oct. 21.)
“It was big. Albert did a heck of a job,” said special teams captain Matthew Slater. “We saw a look that we liked, and we were able to take advantage of it. So hopefully, we can continue that play down the stretch.”
McClellan’s first came with just over minute to go in the first quarter, and the Patriots trailing 7-6. McClellan was able to make his way up the middle and get a hand on the ball. Ramon Humber recovered the fumble, which set the stage for a Patriots touchdown on the second play from scrimmage in the second quarter.
GOT IT!
Blocked by Albert McClellan, recovered by @Ramon_Humber53#NEvsMIA | #GoPats pic.twitter.com/kObNz6tM5q
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) December 9, 2018
AGAIN!!!
McClellan blocks his second punt of the game.#NEvsMIA | #GoPats pic.twitter.com/Mo2lmZuMgd
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) December 9, 2018