Week 12 Preview – Patriots Edition

By: William Ferran

Gainesville, VA - The Patriots enter week 12 sitting at 9-1 after a tough win in Philadelphia in game that highlighted all the problems the team’s offensive squad are facing. Everything from moving the ball down the field, receivers running incorrect routes, no production from the running game, lack of protection from the o-line, rapid pocket disruption, and a number dropped passes, this Patriots offense is unrecognizable and no longer the high caliber team that can score multiple touchdowns.

Quarterback Tom Brady, who recorded his worst game of the season, (216 passing yards, 26 of 47 attempts and no touchdowns), expressed frustration in a post-game media conference due to the lack of the team’s offensive production. Brady threw to ten different receivers that included tight ends and running backs, in addition to the receiver core. And while the Eagles had various offensive starters out of the game, the Patriots defense were back in action holding Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz to 214 passing yards and one touchdown, allowing only 10 points.

Positives from the game included wide receiver N’Keal Harry making his regular season debut recording 18 yards from three pass catches, and no touchdowns. Tight end Ben Watson increased his production by finishing with 52 yards from three pass catches as well. The Patriots only pass touchdown came in the form of 15 yard pass from wide receiver Julian Edelman to wide receiver Phillip Dorsett in an exciting play we’ve seen the team use efficiently in the past. However, in addition to the plague of problems in offense, the Patriots continue to struggle running the ball, matching the same 74 total rushing yards they had in their week 9 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.

This past week the Patriots welcomed the return of offensive left tackle Isaiah Wynn, who’s been out since week 2 nursing a toe injury. His return comes with high hopes of helping the offense improve quarterback protection and rushing attack. With Wynn being the last reinforcement available to this offense, we shall see whether the Patriots can develop some rhythm and endure the stretch ahead.

Former Steelers/Raiders/Patriots wide receiver Antonio Brown is once again in the news, making a public apology to Patriots owner Robert Kraft and the organization over his social media accounts. This of course has created a frenzy of media speculation on whether there would be any chance the Patriots could take him back. Although it would be a highly welcomed addition to this struggling offense, no court rulings have yet been made on his sexual assault allegations. Should he be cleared from such, expect to see him back in the NFL next season.

Up next, the Patriots will host 6-4 Dallas Cowboys, in a matchup that presents two of America’s most popular and hated teams. While the Cowboys have had an up-and-down season, the game presents many challenges for the Patriots. We shall see whether the Patriots can improve and overcome their offensive woes. This game is scheduled for this Sunday November 24th, at 4:25PM EST.