Sony Michel Underwhelms vs Lions but is the Clear Leader of the Patriots Backfield

Sony Michel didn't "pop" like a first rounder, but the usage is a positive.

Sony Michel’s first crack at the Patriots lead-back job was certainly underwhelming from a production standpoint, but Josh McDaniels gave him a heavy workload during the Patriots debacle in Detroit. The rookie running back carried the ball 14 times for a measly 50 yards and was targeted three times in the passing game, hauling in one reception and dropping the two other targets. With Rex Burkhead failing to make an impact and unable to consistently stay on the field, along with James White getting limited playing time, it’s clear the Patriots want to see what they have in the former Bulldog.

Although Michel didn’t do much with ample opportunity, one could chalk it up to the entire team looking like shit against their former defensive coordinator, Matt Patricia. It was clear Patricia had his guys coached up and ready to go, as it looked like the Lions’ defense knew what was coming on almost every play. Their defensive line was in the Patriots backfield all night and Michel didn’t have much space to make plays. What’s most concerning though, was his lack of quickness and burst that made him so special at Georgia. Through two games, his talent has looked pretty pedestrian for a running back chosen in the first round;. But, let’s give him the benefit of the doubt and allow him to get going (he missed just about all of the preseason with a knee injury) before we smash the panic button. The usage in the Patriots offense is what’s important right now.

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