The New England Patriots had a solid game plan for how they utilized their running backs in last week's win over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
New England's rushing attack as a whole was better than it was in the opener, when it was stifled and held to only 10 points by the Seattle Seahawks' defense. However, against the Steelers, Henderson led the way with 19 carries for 76 yards and one touchdown, while Steveson racked up 43 yards on six carries.
Stevenson has mostly been viewed as the lead running back in New England, but he didn't do himself any favors by holding onto that job after fumbling on the opening.
ESPN's Dan Graziano wrote:
“But talking to some of their people Sunday morning, it sounded like they thought this was a particularly good matchup
for Henderson because of the amount of zone defense Pittsburgh plays. I wonder if the Patriots will be as comfortable leaning on him that much every week or whether it remains a timeshare."
The Patriots still value Stevenson's abilities as a pass protector and versatile offensive playmaker. He can pound the ball on the ground or serve as an extra wide receiver coming out of the offensive backfield.
They value Stevenson’s abilities as a pass protector, and he certainly was vital for them as a runner last season on their way to the Super Bowl. Vrabel stood by Stevenson during last year’s early-season fumble issues, and there’s no indication he won’t do so again.”
There is certainly something to be said about having two running backs that can be relied upon. The Patriots utilized that luxury last year, and it ended up with Henderson emerging onto the scene as a rookie, and Stevenson solidifying himself as a dependable veteran.
This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Could major shift be coming for Patriots at running back?
