Week 11 Preview - Patriots Edition

By: William Ferran

Gainesville, VA - After a week 10 bye, the Patriots enter week 11 undefeated no more, sitting at 8-1 after suffering their first loss of the season in a week nine matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. As expected, the Ravens proved to be one of the most challenging opponents this season thus far for the Patriots. With the dynamic play of Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, who passed for 163 yards and one touchdown, as well as rushed for 61 yards and two touchdowns, the Patriots “boogeymen” defense were no match in a game that ended 20-37. 

While there were some positives on the Patriots offensive scheme, which resulted in 285 passing yards, one touchdown and one interception from quarterback Tom Brady, the running game seemed stagnant. Running backs James White, Rex Burkhead, and Sony Michel were only able to rush for a combined 74 yards and one touchdown. In contrast, the Ravens offense rushed for a total of 210 yards and three touchdowns. Second year running back Sony Michel recorded his worst game of the season so far, averaging 1.8 yards per rushing attempt. And while wide receivers Julian Edelman and Mohamed Sanuwere able to move the football through the air for a combined 170 yards and a touchdown, the Patriots offense appeared suspect facing their toughest opponent so far. Although the defensive squad was able to produce two turnovers, they were ineffective in stopping the Ravens running game.  

Much criticism and discussion has been given to the Patriots first half season schedule, which included a slew of under .500 teams. Questions still remain as to whether this Patriots team is as good and effective as the stats of the first eight weeks suggest. The next four weeks will give the Patriots the chance to answer such questions and respond in kind to their critics. They will be facing potentially better teams than their early season opponents in the form of the Philadelphia Eagles, the Dallas Cowboys, the Houston Texans, and the ever potent offense of the Kansas City Chiefs. 

As seen so many times in the past, expect the Patriots to rise up to the challenge, silence their critics, and make the proper adjustments on a week to week basis. The offense will be getting help via first round draft pick, rookie wide receiver N’KealHarry, who has been cleared to play for the first time since the preseason. 

Up next, the Patriots are on to Philadelphia to face the 5-4 Eagles, who are also coming back from a bye week, in what promises to be an interesting Super Bowl 52 rematch. This game is scheduled for this Sunday November 17th, at 4:25PM EST.