In three games this season, opponents have scored 34 points against the Patriots, which is impressive (and also the fewest allowed by the Patriots through three games since 1979). But then when considering that seven of those points came on a fumble return for a touchdown, while another seven came after an interception deep in their own territory, it reflects well on the defense. One theme that was heard after Sunday’s win was how having so many returning players has helped the unit start at a higher point in 2013.