SAN DIEGO -- Observed and heard in the locker room after the New England Patriots' 24-13 win over the San Diego Chargers:
Browner supports instant replay on big hits: Several players talked about how cornerback Brandon Browner's crunching hit on tight end Ladarius Green, which produced a 56-yard interception return for a touchdown by safety Devin McCourty in the third quarter that was called back because of a penalty for a helmet-to-helmet hit, galvanized the defense. Browner was asked if that type of play, where there didn't appear to be helmet-to-helmet contact, should be part of instant replay. "I think they should," Browner answered, "for the simple fact that it cost us six [points]. I was targeting his chest. Hopefully I don't get fined for it and I'm glad we didn't lose the game because of that play." As for the play itself, Browner said: "We were in thirds, my guy set short on it gave me time to check for the crosser coming over, and I happened to get there at the same time as the ball got there."
Browner swaps jerseys with Weddle: As Browner spoke to reporters, a powder blue No. 32 Chargers jersey was on the floor of his locker. He explained that he swapped jerseys with Weddle after the game. "I have a lot of respect for Weddle's game," he said. "I'm a fan of the game, I watch him, and he's one of the best safeties across the league. He comes from my area. We never really talked to each other like that, or known each other, but with respect I had to ask him for a jersey."
Bolden's blocked punt critical: When defensive tackle Vince Wilfork was asked about the Patriots rallying around after Browner's big hit, he pointed to a different play as the key. "I would say the blocked punt really got us started," he said of Brandon Bolden's second-quarter play that was turned into a touchdown. "Just getting a play like that, and with Browner coming in like that, we knew if we continued to work we'd be fine," he said. As for Bolden, he said he got big-eyed on the play and was afraid he might overrun it.
Revis credits Patriots fans: This was a terrific environment for football, with Patriots fans coming out in full force. There were times it seemed like a home game and many players acknowledged the crowd as they left the field. "We had a lot of fans, a lot of supporters out there," cornerback Darrelle Revis said. "Thank you, Patriots fans, for coming out and supporting us. It was kind of even out there with the fan support. It was great."