New England Patriots GameDay: 5 players who will come up big vs. Giants

James White, RB

In general, the New England Patriots running backs will be huge in this one.

With Rex Burkhead potentially available to play, expect a lot of short passes out of the backfield to open things up a bit offensively.

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This is where James White will be huge.

Tom Brady will utilize his versatile running backs, particularly James White with quick slants, screens and draw plays to keep the New York Giants defense honest.  While I do expect another solid game from Sony Michel rushing the ball, I am predicting White will have close to 10 receptions in this game, including a touchdown.

White will also be a factor in picking up blitzes as he knows his offense will be facing a physical and aggressive Giants’ defense. Here is what he had to say Tuesday during his press conference, via Patriots.com:

"“They’re a pressure defense, they try and turn the ball over, they’re going to be physical with you, so it’ll be good for us to get off to a good start, block the blitzes, and the run game, passing game – really get everything going.”"

So, even if James White don’t put up the big numbers as predicted, he will be a factor in this game in some fashion.