One statistic that was charted over the course of the 16-game season was how often the Patriots had quarterback Tom Brady in the shotgun.

The idea for keeping the statistic was sparked after the season opener against the Titans when Brady was in the 'gun just 13 times. That was the first sign of a shift of sorts from what we've seen in recent years from the Patriots, and the feeling here is that it's tied to a greater focus on balance between the run and pass.

On the season, when including penalties, the Patriots were in the shotgun 47.1 percent of the time (585 of 1,240, including penalties). That is a lower percentage than the norm and reflects, from this view, a commitment to the running game that hasn't been as consistent in the past.

Usage of the shotgun

vs. Dolphins: 31 of 80 (3 runs, 26 passes, 2 pre-snap penalties)

at Jaguars: 36 of 73 (4 runs, 32 passes)

vs. 49ers: 59 of 96 (5 runs, 54 passes)

vs. Texans: 31 of 73 (4 runs, 27 passes)

at Dolphins: 35 of 79 (3 runs, 32 passes)

at Jets: 20 of 68 (2 runs, 16 passes, 2 Jets pre-snap penalties)

vs. Colts: 21 of 61 (0 runs, 21 passes)

vs. Bills: 38 of 72 (6 runs, 32 passes)

at Rams: 36 of 69 (4 runs, 32 passes)

vs. Jets: 42 of 80 (6 runs, 36 passes)

at Seahawks: 60 of 87 (7 runs, 52 passes, 1 false start)

vs. Broncos: 45 of 94 (7 runs, 37 passes, 1 false start)

at Bills: 30 of 77 (6 runs, 24 passes)

at Ravens: 41 of 82 (6 runs, 34 passes, 1 fumbled snap)

vs. Cardinals: 47 of 82 (9 runs, 38 passes)

at Titans: 13 of 67 (0 runs, 13 passes)

(Brady scrambles included in runs category.)