New England Patriots: 3 key day-after takes on the Philly game

The second take is the New England Patriots dominating running game

Somehow, someway, the Patriots have developed a multi-faceted running game that, with their great offensive line, is going to create problems, big (and small) problems for opposing defenses.

Damien Harris is the bell-cow back. He scored against Philadelphia and he will likely be the top runner for the Patriots when the bell rings against the Miami Dolphins on September 12th.

After him, the Patriots have really solid depth. Sony Michel has looked sharp both running and catching the ball. If he stays healthy and isn’t traded, he’ll contribute.

James White is James White, still one of the NFL’s best pass-catching backs. But, there is a lot more quality now on the squad.

Second-year man J.J. Taylor is a keeper. This Dion Lewis-type back is short but solid and he can do it all. He can run it. He can catch it. He’s just fine and an NFL back, for certain.

And lastly. let’s talk about the rookie, the favorite in this space. He was suggested here before the NFL draft and was applauded hereafter. That would be, Rhamondre Stevenson.

Stevenson is a big back who can do it all. He can blast forward for a short-yardage gain or touchdown. He can catch it out of the backfield. And, he can take it to the house at any time.

Yes, he was and is a favorite. And he’s done nothing to alter that feeling. He’s just scored four touchdowns, that’s F-O-U-R touchdowns in two games.

All of the Patriots’ running backs had eight in 16 games last season. Quarterback Cam Newton had 12, because he had to. No one else could. All that has now changed.

Yes, I thought he’d be a fan favorite, someone who the fans should root for, and I have the perfect moniker for the Patriots prolific rookie big running back, Rhamondre Stevenson.

It’s, “The Ram” (Rham-ondre, get it?) as in battering ram. He is here and he’ll be scoring touchdowns against NFL teams all over the USA. Can’t wait to see it in real games.

I may have been the biggest fan of LeGarrette Blount in New England. He was just terrific. And I’m happy to say, I think we finally have his successor!

That’s a running back room that might be the envy of any and all NFL teams this season. There may be individuals who are better than any one, but as a unit, they may just be the best in the league.