If the rumors of a run-heavy approach for the New England Patriots were true, those plans were quickly changed when the Patriots found themselves constantly trying to catch up with Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers. The Patriots managed just 18 total carries as a team while Tom Brady ended up with 35 pass attempts.
Fantasy football waiver wire, Week 14: LeGarrette Blount, Patriots backfield continues to perplex fantasy owners
It was a relatively quiet day for New England’s backfield on Sunday. We take a look at what sense can be made out of it for fantasy purposes.
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LeGarrette Blount led with 10 attempts for 58 yards. It was a bit of a departure from his two-touchdown performance in Week 12. Jonas Gray saw just one carry for 4 yards. Brandon Bolden was the wildcard of the week -- scoring the backfield's only touchdown -- but he added just 17 rushing yards to his day. As usual, Shane Vereen was more involved in the passing game but did see three carries for 6 yards.
Fantasy impact: Week 13 was just another reminder that the Patriots have an unpredictable backfield. A Patriots running back can be trending toward Pro Bowl numbers, only to be benched for a single fumble. Another running back could find the end zone three times in one game before disappearing on the depth chart for weeks. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, you realize that it’s an impossible task.
At this point, any running back is a gamble. It would be best to consider Blount and Gray flex options at best knowing that Bolden could vulture a touchdown on any given week. If possible, the entire situation is one to avoid.
