Aqib Talib: 'Preparation makes up for lost players'

New England Patriots cornerback Aqib Talib believes that his side's preparation off the field is making up for the absence of key players on the pitch.

The Patriots have lost defensive tackles Vince Wilfork and Tommy Kelly this season along with linebacker Jerod Mayo, while tight end Rob Gronkowski was ruled out for the campaign with a torn ACL and MCL last week.

"The preparation makes up for a lot of stuff," Talib told reporters.

"You lose those bodies, man, it just makes you have to work harder in the classroom, more guys have to step in and learn their stuff at a fast rate.

"They have to just hop right in and learn it and count on the guys around them to help them out, and if they're wrong, you've got to make them right."

Bill Belichick's side face the Miami Dolphins on Sunday where a victory will see them clinch a playoff place.