Belichick offers high praise for Hopkins: 'I think he defines NFL receiver'

Bill Belichick isn't often quick with the compliments, but he had effusive praise for one of his upcoming opponents.

As the New England Patriots prepare to face the Houston Texans on Sunday night, Belichick identified Texans receiver DeAndre Hopkins as the top threat.

"As good as there is. ... He's really never covered because there's always some place you could put the ball where he can catch it and he has the hands to catch it. Very hard guy to stop," Belichick said Wednesday.

"I think he defines NFL receiver. If you put NFL receiver in the dictionary, put his picture next to it."

Hopkins is second in the league with 81 receptions and torched the Indianapolis Colts' secondary for 94 yards and two touchdowns last Thursday night.

Unfortunately for Hopkins, he'll likely be matched up with Stephon Gilmore. The All-Pro corner has yet to allow a touchdown this season and held Dallas Cowboys star receiver Amari Cooper without a catch in Week 12.

Regardless, Belichick still considers Hopkins dangerous. In a lengthy breakdown of the receiver's strengths and usage, the six-time Super Bowl-winning head coach noted that double coverage usually isn't enough to contain Hopkins.

"He's been doubled his whole life so he knows how to attack it and get open and create separation, even when there are combinations on him," Belichick said.