Digging Deeper: New England Patriots Preseason Game Two Analysis of the Offense

RUNNING BACKS: Aug 22, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; New England Patriots running back Dion Lewis (33) breaks away from New Orleans Saints linebacker Jerry Franklin (54) for a touchdown during the second half of a preseason game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Patriots defeated the Saints 26-24. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The running back battle between potential third-down running backs Travaris Cadet, Dion Lewis, and James White is still up in the air due to Cadet and Lewis missing much of camp and preseason game one. Cadet did not play for the second straight preseason game. Lewis returned with a strong performance against New Orleans with a rushing touchdown and five catches for 36 yards. The diminutive back was strong on blitz pick-up as well.

Aug 22, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; New England Patriots running back

(29) is tackled by New Orleans Saints outside linebacker Hau

James White was solid in his playing time as well for the second straight week. White rushed nine times for 23 yards as well as a stirring 20 yard reception on a screen pass again showing the nifty footwork. as he had against Green Bay last week. White picked up a first down and a touchdown on the ground, the touchdown most impressive as he seemed stopped and showed some power and drive.

Jonas Gray and LeGarrette Blount had trouble finding running room against the Saints. Blount seemed rusty on occasions, but other times he was a victim of weak blocking in front of him. Gray had the same issues with three rookies starting in the interior of the offensive line. Fullback James Develin was a wrecking ball against Green Bay but missed some blocking opportunities against the Saints Saturday night. Brandon Bolden and Tony Creecy did not play with the offense.

At this time, Travaris Cadet has been losing valuable snaps due to injury. Dion Lewis put together a strong performance Saturday night and has inserted himself into the battle for the third down receiving running back. James White had a solid performance as well and remains the front-runner. For Cadet, he has to get on the field in the next two weeks to make an impression on the coaching staff.

Next: Overview of the Offensive Line