FOXBORO — Aqib Talib left a pretty memorable first impression on the New England fan base during his Patriots debut Sunday. Apparently the Patriots have left a rather remarkable impression on him, too.
“I’ve never been a part of an organization like this,” Talib said Tuesday. “It’s good to feel it in the air, the confidence that’s in this building.”
Talib’s Patriots debut was one for the old memory bank, as the 26-year-old corner helped ignite a 59-24 trouncing of the visiting Colts. The crowd at Gillette Stadium bounced with excitement over the new defensive playmaker, who returned an interception 59 yards for an electrifying touchdown that had folks comparing Talib to Ty Law and Asante Samuel.
While the cheers may have been nice, Talib said he was thrilled just to be part of a winning team — a tradition the talented defensive back didn’t become too accustomed to during his four-plus seasons in Tampa Bay.
“It’s a different team,” Talib said, comparing the Patriots and Buccaneers. “You just feel it walking around here — the atmosphere. A winning organization. You can feel it in the air.”
Talib was already talking about making New England more than just a stopgap in his career.
“Man, I would love for it [this place] to be home,” Talib said of the Patriots.
If Sunday’s effort was anything close to what Talib could add to this secondary in the long run, then his wish could come true after all.
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