Patriots seem to have a running back confidence crisis that's hard to ignore

"The New England Patriots upped their record to 4-2 after beating a pesky Saints' team in New Orleans. It's been a solid but not entirely unexpected beginning of the Mike Vrabel era. The winning record is due to Drake Maye's brilliant quarterbacking, even with a pitiful running game, which may now be partly due to the backs concentrating on not fumbling. Whatever the reasons, it's not working."

"Maye's brilliance and the addition of Stefon Diggs have elevated the passing game. The O-line has pass-blocked well. Yet, the running game is still floundering. The holes aren't there, and the blocking up front needs improvement. To make matters worse, the only Patriots running back averaging more than four yards per carry was Antonio Gibson at 4.2. He's now out for the year with an ACL injury."

The Patriots improved to 4-2 after a win in New Orleans. Drake Maye has provided standout quarterback play that compensates for offensive shortcomings. Ball security has improved as running backs emphasize avoiding fumbles, reducing turnovers that contributed to earlier losses. The rushing attack remains ineffective because holes are scarce and run blocking needs improvement. Antonio Gibson was the only back over four yards per carry at 4.2 but is out for the year with an ACL injury. Rhamondre Stevenson averages 3.1 yards and TreVeyon Henderson 3.6, leaving no consistent ground threat. The offensive line's pass protection has been solid, but run-game fixes are required for sustained success and playoff upside.

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