New England Patriots: 3 bold predictions for Week 1 matchup

New England Patriots Bold Prediction No. 3: Running backs will combine for 250 total yards

The Patriots running backs were the talk of training camp and the preseason due to their performances, and that should be expected to carry over into the regular season. With a four-headed monster consisting of Damien Harris, James White, Rhamondre Stevenson, and J.J. Taylor, the running backs are going to have a field day against Miami’s defensive line, and play a big part in the offense’s success.

Much of the heavy lifting will be done by Damien Harris on the ground. Harris’ final stat line will clock in at 23 carries for 121 yards and a touchdown, as the offensive line does a good job at creating holes that Harris takes advantage of all game long.

Most of the work in the passing game will be picked up by White and Taylor, who continues to look like White’s successor as the Patriots pass-catching back. Both players will pick up 50+ receiving yards, while White will also be on the receiving end of Mac Jones first career passing touchdown.

Stevenson will pick up the rest of the slack by relieving Harris when he needs a breather. Stevenson won’t get many touches, but he will make the most of the ones he gets, averaging 5.5 yards per carry while also picking up his first career NFL touchdown.

Overall, expect a huge day for the Patriots running back room. Miami boasts a deep secondary that could give Jones fits, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels lean on the ground game to kick off the season. And when Jones does throw, White and Taylor will offer him a safe checkdown option that he cashes in on time and again throughout the contest.

When all is said and done, the four Patriots running backs will have combined to pick up 250+ total yards in this one, powering the Patriots offense up and down the field.