New England Patriots: 5 observations from defueling of New York Jets

3. Running game still hasn’t gotten going

Perhaps it is the makeshift offensive line, but the New England Patriots running game really hasn’t taken off so far this season.

Entering the game with both fullback James Develin and versatile running back James White both inactive, it was predictable that the running game would struggle a bit against a physical New York Jets front.

Again, Sony Michel couldn’t get anything going gaining just 11 yards on 9 attempts.  He did score the first touchdown of the game, but the one flaw in the Patriots offense is the lack of production in the first three games of the season out of a player projected to be a top 10 running back in the league.

Certainly, something to watch with 2019 third-round pick Damien Harris waiting in the wings.

Michel’s lack of production is getting Rex Burkhead some more touches.  On Sunday, the versatile Burkhead (another predicted X-factor in the game) rushed for 47 yards on 11 attempts and a touchdown.  He also had 6 receptions in the game.

While Sony Michel struggles, it appears Rex Burkhead is becoming that player the New England Patriots thought he’d be when they signed him as a free agent.

Of course, health is playing a large role in that.