Belichick downplayed Francis’s individual numbers, again saying that it was a team effort to get to Tannehill. Francis said much the same but added, “It was fun. It’s fun taking the field and getting after the quarterback. As a group we are out there having fun together.”
It was the first shutout for the Patriots since their 59-0 domination of the Titans in October 2009.
Miami receiver Brian Hartline said he was “very disappointed. Embarrassed more than disappointed” over not just losing but not posting a single score.
New England, of course, felt quite differently.
“It was great,” Gregory said. “Any time you can look up at the end of the game and see that zero up there on the scoreboard it’s a good thing. We’re proud of our guys and proud of the way we played.”
Shalise Manza Young can be reached at syoung@globe.com. Follow her on Twitter @shalisemyoung.
