NFL Week 5 Power Rankings: Patriots make winning ugly look pretty

BUFFALO, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 29: Jamie Collins #58 of the New England Patriots celebrates after sacking Josh Allen #17 of the Buffalo Bills during the first quarter in the game at New Era Field on September 29, 2019 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /

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New England Patriots Sony Michel (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) /

The Bad

The running game continues to be an issue for the New England Patriots.

Sure, there are offensive line problems, but the team really needs Sony Michel to get it going. Although it may be harder without fullback James Develin leading the way, Michel has shown the ability to find the right holes and create positive yardage.

This season, he has looked a little hesitant at times. That has to stop with Tom Brady and the passing game struggling a bit.

With 63 yards on 17 carries Sunday, Sony Michel wasn’t horrible. But, that 3.7 average per rush attempt needed to be better on Sunday to keep the athletic Bills’ defense from teeing off on Brady.

There is much optimism that Michel will get it going, but if this trend continues it may be time to get Rex Burkhead more carries and give 2019 third-round pick Damian Harris and opportunity to show what he can do.

In all, the New England Patriots need the running game to be a factor to get the passing game rolling.

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