New England Patriots - NESN.com
Turnovers sank the New England Patriots’ chances of beating the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. The offense turned the ball over five times, including twice inside the 10-yard line in the 21-14 loss.
Two of the turnovers came at the hands of Rhamondre Stevenson, who fumbled twice. The first came on the Patriots’ first drive of the game, while the second came early in the second half on the goal line with New England trailing by seven.
Stevenson has had issues with fumbles throughout his career. He fumbled seven times in 15 games last season, most by a non-quarterback in the entire NFL. This season, he had yet to fumble, but his two on Sunday proved costly.
Quarterback Drake Maye was also responsible for two turnovers. He threw an interception on the goal line when a pass was tipped at the line of scrimmage, and fumbled after holding the ball in the pocket. After the game, Maye remained confident in his teammate.
“He’s one of our best players. There’s nothing he can do that will change my view of him as a player and a teammate,” Maye said.
Stevenson was excellent in the Patriots’ week 2 win over the Miami Dolphins. He carried the ball 11 times for 54 yards and caught five passes for another 88. He was a driving force in the offense, but his ability as a ball carrier is negated if he can’t hold on to the football.
After his second fumble, Antonio Gibson took the next drive and also turned the ball over. From there, TreVeyon Henderson handled the bulk of the work. Demario Douglas got the ball on a fourth-down play, ending the Patriots’ final drive.
The Patriots host the Carolina Panthers next week, who have struggled against the run. Stevenson will likely be back in the mix for touches, but if he fumbles again, he’ll be quick to hit the bench.
