BROWN HAS KEY SACK IN NFL DEBUT

Former Brenham Cub and Texas Longhorn defensive tackle Malcom Brown made his NFL debut last night as Brown’s New England Patriots defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers, 28-21.

Brown, the Patriots’ first-round pick in the 2015 Draft, recorded two tackles—including his first-ever NFL sack.

Brown’s sack came at the most opportune time for New England, as he dropped Steelers’ receiver Antonio Brown as he attempted an option pass.  Pittsburgh had been driving down field on their opening drive, but Brown’s sack forced the Steelers to attempt a 44-yard field goal, which was missed by Josh Scobee.

Injuries to two other Patriots’ defensive linemen thrust Brown into an expanded role in his NFL debut.

Brown told The Boston Herald his teammates were a great influence: “The guys did a great job.  They calmed me down during the game.”

Brown and the Patriots hit the road next Sunday for a noon kickoff at Buffalo.