Patriots defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth knows that he has to step his game up

By Nick Underhill masslive.com

AP Pittsburgh Steelers running back Isaac Redman (33) is tackled by New England Patriots linebacker Brandon Spikes (55) and Albert Haynesworth (92) in the second quarter during NFL action Sunday, Oct. 30, 2011 in Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh won the game 25-17.

FOXBOROUGH – The Albert Haynesworth era in Foxborough hasn't been as impactful as most hoped, but he still believes there's time to turn it around.

The 350-pound defensive tackle has accumulated six tackles, eight quarterback pressures and no sacks while appearing in five games, and has had little impact in the run defense while serving as Kyle Love's backup in the base defense.

He's done other things to help the defense that don't show up on the stat sheet, such as swallowing up multiple blockers on the line, but he knows that those moments have been too scarce to make up for his other shortcomings.

"I want to do everything better," Haynesworth said. "I'd like to rush the passer and get after the quarterback more. Instead of just getting the pressures, I want to get the sacks."

As for why that hasn't happened yet, Haynesworth said that he's "still knocking off rust" and believes his play will improve as his comfort level rises.

He also said that the back injury that knocked him out of two games is no longer an issue.

"I feel fine," he said. "I'm starting to learn the scheme and how we play it. That's it. Anyway I can help the team, that's my goal."

Source: http://blog.masslive.com