5 New England Patriots thrust into the spotlight Week 5 vs Broncos

All eyes on Damien Harris and the New England Patriots run game

With the Denver Broncos entering this game giving up 109.0 yards per game on the ground, it won’t be a given that the New England Patriots rushing attack will dominate in this game, but they will sure try.

If Jarrett Stidham or Brian Hoyer is the starter, the Patriots will try to take some pressure off by running the ball and they will do it behind second year running back Damien Harris who lived up to the hype in his 2020 NFL regular season debut.

With 100 yards rushing on 17 attempts against the Kansas City Chiefs, Harris appeared to just be getting started as his longest run came at the end of the third quarter.  Just look at the power combined with the breakaway speed:

https://twitter.com/Patriots/status/1313286709757476864

Finally getting his opportunity, Damien Harris has at least given himself a chance to claim his status as the featured back, especially with Sony Michel now on injured reserve.  That does not mean the New England Patriots won’t mix in both Rex Burkhead and James White.

In running the ball behind a physical offensive line as mentioned in the previous slide, both Damien Harris and Burkhead will have their share of opportunities to make things happen.  Also, don’t be surprised if J.J. Taylor gets in on the act if the running game is successful early on.