New England Patriots: 5 observations from fumbling loss to Miami

Despite the fumble, New England Patriots running back Damien Harris is the man

The first offensive play of the game said it all.  The New England Patriots running game is going to be tough to stop.

Taking the first handoff of the game for 35 yards, Damien Harris showed he is going to be special this season.

With 100 yards on 23 attempts, the Alabama product was effective and proved hard to be taken down.  However, it was his attempt to fight for more yards that led to the fumble late in the game.  The third year back obviously took it personal when talking about the big turnover after the game.

"“It’s a tough play,” Harris said.  “Obviously I have to do a better job of holding onto the ball, especially in a critical situation like that, but it’s a long season.  Not going to let this mistake define me, so I’m just ready to move forward.”"

Although that fumble was tough to digest, the great thing about Harris is his character.  He is a player that battles and works hard to improve week-to-week and he will.  As will rookie running back Rhamondre Stevenson who had an issue with ball security himself earlier in the game.

Fortunately, Stevenson’s fumble didn’t lead to any points, but it did prevent the Patriots’ offense from scoring.  Despite the turnovers, the Patriots running backs are going to be big in this offense.  From Harris and Stevenson to James White who was good in the passing game, the running backs showed glimpses that they are good as advertised.

As the team moves onto Week 2 against the New York Jets, it’s a safe bet to believe the emphasis from Bill Belichick will be ball security.  It’s simple, if they held onto the fall, the new England Patriots win that game, perhaps going away.