Keys To Victory: Can The Chicago Bears Stop The New England Patriots?

2. Slow down James White and Sony Michel

Easily the Patriots two biggest offensive pieces, White and Michel have been a big reason behind the Patriots offensive success on 2018. White averages nearly 8.7 yards per reception, while Michel continues to make a name for himself in the running game, averaging nearly 4.4 rushing yards per attempt. In fact, considering he’s averaging nearly 18 carries over the last five games, it’s clear that Michel is viewed as the Patriots primary option in the run game.

White and Michel have proven to be two players that can wreak havoc on a defense. In a week four showdown against the Miami Dolphins, both players combined for 224 scrimmage yards. With that, the Patriots were able to rout Miami 38-7.

Usually, James White will run routes out of the backfield and often times, he’ll be matched up against a linebacker. What this will allow White to do is take advantage of his matchup. If he runs an arrow route and is given space, he usually turns a short pass into a long gain. Michel, on the other hand, is a between the tackles runner. Against the Kansas City Chiefs in week six, Michel had multiple runs the guards and center.

While most fans would cite Patriots Tight End Rob Gronkowski as a major reason for the Patriots being successful on offense, Michel and White have clearly made a bigger impact for the Patriots.