Insider Names Way Patriots Can Boost Running Game
The Patriots offense has made several positive strides over the last six games. However, New England’s has struggled in the running game, averaging only 91.5 yards per game.
Many analysts expect New England to trade for a running back before the Nov. 4 NFL trade deadline. Still, NBC Sports Boston’s Patriots insider Tom E. Curran believes the solution to the running game is already on the roster.
“Give the ball to TreVeyon Henderson more often.” Curran said Thursday on “WEEI Afternoons.” “Just give him the ball; stop waiting until you’ve looked at the numbers and said we have only given the ball to him twice in the first half. Start the game with him as a running back and get him to a point where he is running with comfort and not I’ve got to earn my carries here.”
The Patriots have barely allowed Henderson to carry the ball, giving him only 41 carries for a total of 148 yards.
Henderson stepped up as New England’s No. 2 running back last week after a torn ACL sidelined backup Antonio Gibson for the season in Week 5.
With Henderson moving up the depth chart, he’s in line for more carries. However, he needs to elevate his performance to convince the Patriots that he can solve their struggles in the running game.