Seau played 32 of a possible 50 snaps against the Bills, while Bruschi played 22, a breakdown that sheds light on how the Patriots are employing their linebackers. Bruschi played more early (18 first-half snaps), while Seau had 22 of his snaps in the second half.
Bruschi started at the weak-side inside spot, lining up next to strong-side inside linebacker Adalius Thomas. When a sub defense was called upon in passing situations, Bruschi would come off the field in favor of Seau.
"We've broken it up differently from time to time, but we have confidence in all three guys," said coach Bill Belichick of the inside linebacker rotation. "They can all play the run, play the pass, rush, they're all instinctive, they communicate well, they can run the defense. I think that Tedy, AD, and Junior have given us good play in there, physical play."
The Bruschi-Seau mix is of particular interest because both players are nearing the end of distinguished careers - Bruschi now 34 and Seau 38. They aren't playing as much as they did in some previous years, willing to swallow their ego for the betterment of the team, but are still productive when called upon.
The 6-foot-1-inch, 247-pound Bruschi has been credited by the team's coaches with 13 tackles (8 solo) and one quarterback hit, while the 6-3, 250-pound Seau is tied for third on the team with 16 tackles (12 solo) and one quarterback hit.
Former Patriots linebacker Ted Johnson said the combination reminds him of how the team used to employ veteran Roman Phifer in the 2001-04 seasons, often rotating him with Bruschi at inside linebacker. Johnson likes the 1-2 punch of Bruschi and Seau.
"They both bring different attributes, both are unique, but I also see some similarities," he said. "I think they're both risk takers, they'll take their chances, and both are playmakers. They'll still come up with the big play."
