FOXBORO -- The Patriots have played one game without injured tight end Rob Gronkowski. Seems like a small sample size for an opposing coach to gauge just how much his absence has affected the Patriots.
But Miami Dolphins coach Joe Philbin gave it a shot on Wednesday's conference call, saying that he sees a New England team that has found -- and will continue to find -- a way to survive.
"Well, they looked pretty good the other night when I saw them," said Philbin. "I didn't watch a whole lot on Thanksgiving night, but I've watched it since. And they played very, very well.
"Obviously Gronkowski's a heck of a football player. And what he's done in his short career is extremely impressive. But they've got good players, and as you guys know, when injuries occur, teams have to adjust and move on. And they moved on quite well against the Jets."