New England Patriots: Four Takeaways From 27-25 Win Over The New York Jets

Oct 5, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver

(19) runs out of the tunnel to fireworks during team introductions prior to a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Gillette Stadium. New England Patriots defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 43-17. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

3. Brandon LaFell Emerging

Every year since 2009, one of the biggest questions we have had regarding the Pats’ offense is who will emerge as a legitimate target on the outside? And this year, I think it is obvious that Brandon LaFell is that guy.

LaFell has slowly found his role in Brady’s offense, and now he is making big-time plays on the perimeter, while also building a solid rapport with his quarterback. LaFell caught four balls for 55 yards yesterday (on five targets), making an impressive move after catching the ball on New England’s first offensive play to gain 24 yards.

Yes, the Jets have a mediocre secondary, but there were times from 2010-13 where the Patriots had absolutely no one that could make plays like that. I love Deion Branch, but he was over the hill in 2010, and Brandon Lloyd didn’t have that kind of skill in 2012. But now, with LaFell in the fold, I think he will be able to make plays like that all year long

And by doing solid things on the outside like that, this Pats’ offense will not only be dangerous now, but it will also be effective come January.

We all know defenses will key in on Gronk, Edelman, and Vereen in the postseason. The reason New England hasn’t been able to advance in recent years has been the lack of a threat on the outside. But based on what I have seen over the last few games, Brandon LaFell could definitely be the guy that leads them to a big win in the AFC Championship game in a few months.