How Mike Vrabel Had Patriots Match Buccaneers’ Energy In Practice

Sunday at 1 p.m. ET may just be the New England Patriots’ biggest test of the season.

That challenge is not just facing a Baker Mayfield-led Tampa Bay Buccaneers team that is off to a 6-2 start and has one of the more talented offenses in the NFL. It’s also a Buccaneers team coming off a bye

Since Tampa Bay’s 23-3 win over the New Orleans Saints on October 26th, it’s had 14 days off from an NFL game. That’s seven more days than the Patriots, who squeezed out a win over the Atlanta Falcons last Sunday.

So what did Mike Vrabel do to combat a Buccaneers team with ample rest? He shortened practice for the Patriots.

“It somewhat slipped under the radar last week, but Vrabel tightened up the team’s practices so players weren’t on the field as long.” ESPN’s Mike Reiss wrote in his Sunday notes article.

“It’s the Patriots’ 10th straight week with a game coming out of training camp, and then they also have a quick turnaround with a home game Thursday against the Jets.”

Vrabel is taking the smart approach here. An NFL season can be a grind, not just because of the games, but also all the practice and prep from summer training camp leading right into the regular season. He chose to cut back on practice time, not just for his players but also keeping the opponent in mind.

“Vrabel said part of the approach was tied to matching the Buccaneers’ energy, as they are coming off their bye week,” Reiss continued.

It also wasn’t a decision that Vrabel made on his own. He received input from his athletic training, strength and nutrition staff on what they view as best for the team.

The Patriots will already be without one of their top playmakers against the Buccaneers, but their head coach made sure they won’t be without rest.