Patriots Reveal Surprising Starter Could Be Demoted Ahead of Week 5

The New England Patriots have been emphasizing the running game since the start of the season. Offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt and head coach Jerod Mayo planned to make this a run-first offense that controlled possession and the clock.

Considering how bad the passing game has been so far, one can easily say that has been the case. However, the production of the running back room hasn't been particularly inspiring, either.

One of the main reasons for that has been the play of Rhamondre Stevenson. The starting running back to begin the season, expectations were high for the fourth-year player. So far, however, he hasn't been able to fulfill expectations.

As a result, he is at risk of losing his starting job to Antonio Gibson, according to Patriots insider Mike Reiss.

NFL News: Antonio Gibson May Start Over Rhamondre Stevenson

Jerod Mayo referred to the possibility of Antonio Gibson starting over Stevenson as "definitely under consideration" for good reason. Stevenson had a fumble in each of the first four games and hasn't been as effective as Gibson. Stevenson has played 159 offensive snaps so far and carried the ball 65 times for 267 yards, a 4.1 yards per rush average.

Gibson, on the other hand, is doing more with less. In only 70 offensive snaps and 29 carries, he has averaged 5.3 yards per attempt, looking more explosive when featured. As expected from him, he has also been more involved and effective in the passing game, adding 82 yards in seven receptions there.

The Patriots need to have a dynamic running back rotation to have a chance to stay in games. Their passing game will never be high-level with the current quarterback-wide receiver combinations. So, this change in the backfield is necessary and Patriots fans will hope that it bears fruit.

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