New England Patriots: 4 reasons rebuilding offensive line is essential

Third Reason: Keeping the opponent’s offense off the field

The third major reason why the offensive line is so important is really predicated on the first two: time-of-possession, and what that means on the scoreboard.

When the New England Patriots keep possession of the ball by passing well and running well – they effectively control the game.

Predominance on offense by definition effectively keeps the opponent’s offense sitting on the bench. When their opponent’s offense sits – they ain’t scoring.

So the offensive line’s impact is defensive, in a manner of speaking. When they dominate time-of-possession, they keep the opponent’s offense off field – and they keep the opponent’s offense from scoring.

Good defense – by default!