New England Patriots: 5 reasons team’s best football is ahead of them
Sony Michel and the running game
It is no coincidence that the New England Patriots have had their best offensive games when they have some semblance of a running game. Just the threat of the run opens up things for Tom Brady and the passing game.
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We saw it on Sunday. Julian Edelman was wide open at times and that came off the play action. But, because the team couldn’t maintain a consistent running game, the Tennessee Titans were able to tee off on Brady and force him into bad decisions.
With Sony Michel now back, the running game should once again open up things in the passing game.
Before he went down with an injury against the Chicago Bears in Week 7, Michel was really starting to hit his stride and become a weapon on the ground. In those games, the Patriots scored 38, 38 and 43 points.
With Rex Burkhead also due to return, the depth at running back gives Tom Brady other options. It sets up draw plays as well as play action. Most importantly, it keeps opposing team’s defenses off balance.
Also, with the colder weather setting in, the running game will become even more important. Not only will it establish some kind of flow to the Patriots’ offense, it will also keep their 41-year-old quarterback off his back.