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HOUSTON -- The eye-popping interception that New England Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler snagged during a Super Bowl victory two years ago made him an instant hero in franchise history. Butler famously undercut and picked off a pass from Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson intended for Ricardo Lockette to preserve the win in the final minutes.
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It was the first interception of his career and the launching pad for Butler establishing himself as one of the top corners in the NFL.
As a shutdown corner, Butler has the Texans' respect and full attention as they prepare for a Thursday night game against the Patriots at Gillette Stadium
"He's played a lot of good football since two years ago," Texans Pro Bowl wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins said of the former undrafted free agent from West Alabama. "The guy's made more plays than just that one play in the Super Bowl, that's just the one that sticks out to a lot people. He's a very smart football player, very talented. Just have to go out there and compete with him."
Butler became a starter last season and was named to the Pro Bowl, recording 82 tackles, 18 pass deflections and two interceptions.
"Malcolm Butler is one of the best corners in our league," Texans coach Bill O'Brien said. "He's physical, he's got really good ball skills, he plays the ball well, instinctive player, he's a strong football player and he's very well-coached. He's one of the better corners in our league."
Meanwhile, the Patriots' defensive preparations revolve heavily around trying to contain Hopkins.
One season removed from a career breakthrough with 111 catches for 1,521 yards and 11 touchdowns, Hopkins has already caught 12 passes for 167 yards and two touchdowns.
"Honestly just trying to compete, you're not going to stop every play," Patriots free safety Devin McCourty said of Hopkins. "You've just got to try to be on point all night and hope that you make more plays than he makes because he's a tough cover."
