New England Patriots - NESN.com
The Patriots currently hold a 1-2 record as they approach Week 4. The running game’s ongoing struggles have significantly contributed to New England’s subpar performance.
New England’s difficulties in the running game negatively impacted their chances of winning in Week 1 against the Las Vegas Raiders and in Week 3 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. According to Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report, the ground game is the team’s most pressing issue as they prepare for Sunday’s game against Carolina.
“The Patriots have a lot of problems, including issues with penalties, missed tackles, placekicking and defensive lapses,” Gagnon wrote Friday. “But this week, let’s turn to the fact that quarterback Drake Maye is tied for the team lead in rushing.
“That’s because well-paid back Rhamondre Stevenson has yet to score or rush for 60 yards in a game this season, and he fumbled twice in a Week 3 loss to the Steelers.”
Stevenson hasn’t been the only issue in the running back room. Backup running back Antonio Gibson has rushed for 58 yards on 13 carries, and rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson has gained only 65 rushing yards on 19 attempts.
If the Patriots want to build confidence in their running back group, this week’s matchup offers a favorable opportunity. This season, the Panthers are allowing an average of 137.7 rushing yards per game.
