Patriots running backs had a big day on the ground against the Eagles in a 31-22 win on Friday night with Stevan Ridley totaling 92 yards and a score on eight carries while LeGarrette Blount posted 101 yards and two touchdowns on 11 carries. New England's ground attack could not be stopped and the team averaged a whopping 8.0 yards per carry on 31 rushes, totaling 248 yards and three rushing TDs.
Stevan Ridley, LeGarrette Blount run wild as Pats fantasy backfield figures to be busy
The Patriots ran all over the Eagles last night. Should you be concerned about LeGarrette Blount getting into the mix? We break down the fantasy implications.
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While the running back numbers aren't expected to be this massive, the Patriots success on the ground is nothing new. Tom Brady gets all the love, but New England ranked seventh in the NFL in rushing yards and led the league in rushing scores last season.
Fantasy impact: Ridley didn't surprise anyone and there really aren't many opposed to the idea of him having another big season. Yes, the Patriots do have some depth at tailback, but Ridley's carries around the goal line are safe and he should see the overwhelming majority of the handoffs while Shane Vereen lines up all over the field.
As for Blount, his explosion may have been due to the horrible Eagles defense. The only real takeaway is that Blount could conceivably leapfrog Brandon Bolden, so there's no need to target Blount in drafts just yet. Ridley figures to be someone to target at the turn of the first and second round of standard leagues.
