New England Patriots: 5 observations from statement win over Vikings

Rex-in-effects

The New England Patriots solved the Minnesota Vikings defensive scheme mainly with the short passing game involving their running backs.  James White did his part, but impressively Rex Burkhead got back into the mix after stepping on the field for the first time since Week 3.

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Burkhead only rushed the ball for 20 yards on seven carries and contributed in the passing game with two passes for 21yards, but his aggressive running really set the tone for the game.  Of course, he felt great just being back out there helping his team win a big game.

"“Whenever you get out there, get the ball back into your hands [and] get a feel for it, it starts to come back quickly,” Burkhead said after the game.  “That was a great opponent that was faced so that was a big win for us.”"

Overall, Rex Burkhead showed he is effective when healthy.  His presence also enables the team to run two running back sets in different ways.  They can have the combo either Burkhead, James White and Sony Michel on the field at any time and have the defense guessing on whether they will run or pass the ball.

The versatility of all three running backs is an offensive weapon the New England Patriots offense has really for the first time this season.