Running With It

Last Sunday during the Pats victory over Carolina, the Pats ran the ball for the most times this season accounting for more than 50% of their plays. This season when they have run the ball at least 45% of the time, their record has been 5-2. They ran the ball for a season high 40 times and gained 185 yards. This was 8 yards less than their best against Tennessee. Both games were played in wet and slippery conditions with snow against the Titans and rain with the Panthers.

Last Sunday, the Pats were in shot-gun formations for only 25 of 72 snaps. Tom Brady's injuries to his shoulder, finger and ribs may also have played a part in the game plan.

They ran mostly an I-back formation , with Sammy Morris playing full-back. Morris has emerged as a viable blocker clearing the way for Kevin Faulke and Lawrence Maroney. Faulke ran out of the I-back in 5 of his 10 carries. Maroney lugged it 22 times.

With the weather in Buffalo looking to be windy and cold, the Pats may take advantage of their stable of backs. Fred Taylor is a hoping to return to action after missing a large part of the season. A fresh back could really help the Pats much like it did last year when Lamont Jordan returned after a several week absence.