New England Patriots: Running back tandem key to success

The New England Patriots offense must adapt weekly to keep up with the league’s best, and here’s why the running back group can help solve that.

If this season has shown New England Patriots fans anything, it’s shown us that the norms we’re used to are a thing of the past.

Losing to inferior teams, not converting in the red zone, and failing to be in the Top 5 in total offense have been the some of the negative changes. However, the offense is still clearly evolving, even late in the season.

This isn’t the “spread and shred” Patriots of years before. Instead, New England has relied heavily on James White in the passing game and Sony Michel between the tackles.

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This season, Michel has 706 yards on 164 attempts and 5 TD in the running game. Meanwhile, James White has a career-high 76 catches 674 yards and 6 TD through the air.

This two-headed-monster has proven integral for the Patriots given that it puts less pressure on Tom Brady to throw 45+ times every game.

This strategy could become even more beneficial if Rex Burkhead can find his way back into the fold. His contribution will take carries away from White and Michel and keep all three fresh and ready to go.

Additionally, this will help to wear down linebackers early in the game while keeping three dual-purpose backs in the mix. Further, it will open it up vertical passing down the field to the wide receivers and Rob Gronkowski.

It’s clear that the Patriots will need to win games differently down the stretch. This team, when firing on all cylinders, is still very talented and able to beat anyone anywhere.

But to achieve their goals and meet expectations, the Patriots offense will have to perform very well to cover the defense’s holes. This is why utilizing the three running backs both aerially and on the ground is key to the team’s success.

Something tells me that there is still some Foxboro magic left.

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