New England Patriots - NESN.com
As the New England Patriots prepare for their matchup against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, one key concern is how they will manage Rhamondre Stevenson’s workload.
98.5 The Sports Hub’s Alex Barth believes that if Stevenson has a limited role this week, the team could use him mainly as a pass blocker.
“If Stevenson is dressed and in a reduced role, look for him to be used mainly as a pass blocker,” Barth wrote Friday. “That was almost exclusively his usage when he was in the game after his second fumble last week, and is obviously a role where ball security won’t be an issue.”
Stevenson struggled in last Sunday’s 21-14 defeat against the Pittsburgh Steelers, fumbling the ball twice on just four carries. He excelled in pass protection last week and earned the team’s second-highest pass blocking grade, according to Pro Football Focus.
One concern with Stevenson taking on a primary pass-blocking role is that the Panthers could adjust to it. New England may not want Stevenson to carry the ball, leading to the conclusion that it is a passing play.
The Patriots must use Stevenson strategically this week; otherwise, their offense risks becoming too predictable.
