New England Patriots: 3 observations from solid victory vs Raiders

The New England Patriots did a lot of good things.

Lots of good things to report, as well.

First, the running game.

It was nice to see Sony Michel break 100 yards and rip off two big runs. Rex Burkhead was superb, breaking sizeable runs and scoring three touchdowns.

And rookie J.J. Taylor has been a revelation. He’s another undrafted free agent who is proving that given a chance he can excel.

He’s New England’s quickest back and his diminutive silhouette is tough to locate for massive defensive fronts. No doubt, he’s a keeper. And he’s keeping the other backs on their toes, for sure, as well.

Long yardage plays have not been a trademark of New England either under Tom Brady or now.  Their method of operation has largely been to march downfield on long drives and score.

But Michel’s two long runs today were great. Next up will be a couple of “take-it-to-the-house” plays of maybe 50+ yards by a back or wideout. Those will help, big-time.

And in addition, the next great Patriots quarterback Cam Newton continued to display his MVP-caliber pedigree. He’s just great.

So, win number two was a bounce-back win after a heartbreaking loss at Seattle.

Few would expect a win in Week 3, but maybe Super Cam, Julian Edelman, and a grinding running game can work magic and surprise the NFL world. Don’t count Newton and Edelman or this New England Patriots team out. They may just surprise us all.