New England Patriots: 5 observations from lackluster night in Houston

HOUSTON, TX - DECEMBER 1: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots sits on the bench near the end of the game during a loss to the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on December 1, 2019 in Houston, Texas. The Texans defeated the Patriots 28-22. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

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New England Patriots James White (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

3. Good to see James White

The New England Patriots weren’t able to really get the running game going with Sony Michel and Rex Burkhead.

Part of the reason was because the team fell behind 21-3 and a lot of it was due to them not sticking to it long enough.

The good news, however, was the re-emergence of James White into the offensive game plan. As defenses have been focused on limiting White in the passing game, there has been a decrease in his targets the last few weeks, so it was good to see the Wisconsin product making plays with his sweet feet.

Take a look at the first of his two touchdown receptions Sunday night:

In all, James White was the leading rusher with 79 yards on 14 attempts. He also had 8 receptions, which was a positive for this offense. In gaining 98 yards in rushing, White totaled 173 yards from scrimmage.

That’s the kind of production Tom Brady and the offense is going to need from White going forward if this team is going to have success in the playoffs.

More James White please!

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