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New England Patriots: 5 observations from electric win over Chargers

By Tarringo Basile-vaughan

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 06: Wide receiver Gunner Olszewski #80 of the New England Patriots returns a punt return for a touchdown in the second quarter of the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium on December 06, 2020 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 06: Wide receiver Gunner Olszewski #80 of the New England Patriots returns a punt return for a touchdown in the second quarter of the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium on December 06, 2020 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) /
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New England Patriots N’Keal Harry (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

All is not lost with recent high draft picks

There has been a lot of chatter about Bill Belichick’s drafting over the last couple seasons.

While the 2020 draft class is actually turning out to be a good one despite lack of production from the two rookie tight ends, some of the players in the prior drafts are showing signs that they may not be the busts they are being made out to be.

All it takes is patience with some players.  Not that Sony Michel or N’Keal Harry did anything mind-blowing in Sunday’s 45-0 win, but they did contribute and make plays to help the team win.

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Michel had a couple nice runs and a pass reception that proves he can be a dual threat running back and Harry had a touchdown reception proving that he is capable of being a big target in the red zone.

Perhaps, that is all both players need to be to succeed in the Patriots’ offense.  Not featured roles, but complimentary roles.

Speaking of high draft picks, backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham came in the game slinging despite the team being up 38-0 when he took over for Cam Newton.  With a touchdown pass to Gunner Olszewski, the young quarterback showed he may not be out of the conversation for competing for the job in 2021.

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To be honest, he looked better throwing the ball than Newton and perhaps the New England Patriots may think about inserting him in on a few drives going forward, especially if the team falls out of playoff contention.

In all, it was a great complete effort by the Patriots as they enter an important two-game stretch against the Los Angeles Rams and Miami Dolphins that could make or break the season.

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