Patriots Game Review: Two Key Questions

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Post on Dec 17, 2024

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Patriots Game Review: Two Key Questions

The New England Patriots' latest game leaves fans with more questions than answers. While the final score might tell one story, a deeper dive reveals crucial areas needing immediate attention. This review focuses on two key questions that will determine the Patriots' success going forward.

Question 1: Can the Offensive Line Consistently Protect Mac Jones?

The performance of the offensive line was arguably the most concerning aspect of the game. Mac Jones, despite his efforts, was under constant pressure. Sacks, hurries, and hits disrupted the rhythm of the offense, hindering both the running and passing game.

The Breakdown:

• Pass Protection: The lack of consistent pocket presence made it nearly impossible for Jones to execute downfield throws effectively. The offensive line struggled to handle both the pass rush and stunts, leaving Jones vulnerable to big hits.
• Run Blocking: While the running game showed flashes of brilliance, the inconsistency in the run blocking mirrored the pass protection woes. Too many plays were stifled before they could develop, limiting the effectiveness of the rushing attack.
• Personnel Issues?: Is it a personnel issue, a coaching issue, or a combination of both? This is a critical question that needs answering swiftly. Are the current players capable of providing adequate protection, or are roster changes necessary? Effective scheme adjustments are also crucial.

Question 2: Can the Patriots Establish a Consistent Running Game?

A strong running game is essential for a balanced offense, taking pressure off the quarterback and controlling the clock. While there were glimpses of success on the ground, the Patriots failed to establish a consistent running attack throughout the game.

The Breakdown:

• Lack of Yards After Contact: Even when runners gained initial yardage, they struggled to consistently break tackles and gain significant yardage after contact. This indicates potential issues with both individual runner performance and blocking schemes.
• Play Calling: Were the play calls effective in exploiting opponent weaknesses? Analyzing the play-calling strategy is crucial to determine if the running game's shortcomings stem from a lack of creative offensive schemes.
• Offensive Line Contribution Again: As mentioned above, the offensive line's struggles directly impacted the running game's effectiveness. Improving pass protection often translates to better run blocking.

Looking Ahead:

These two questions are intertwined. A stronger offensive line would dramatically improve both the passing and running games, giving Mac Jones more time to throw and the running backs more space to run. Addressing these issues requires immediate attention and decisive action from the coaching staff and front office. The Patriots' path to success hinges on finding solutions quickly. The upcoming games will provide a vital test of how well the team addresses these weaknesses. The next game offers a crucial opportunity to answer these questions convincingly, demonstrating significant progress and establishing a more consistent and competitive performance. Are the Patriots ready to answer the challenge? Only time will tell.