New England Patriots vs Atlanta Falcons: 6 players to watch for

3 of 7

HOUSTON, TX – FEBRUARY 05: Dion Lewis #33 of the New England Patriots evades a tackle from Jalen Collins #32 of the Atlanta Falcons during the third quarter of Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

Patriots Running Back, Dion Lewis

The Patriots came into the regular season with a crowded backfield. They were unsure how they could divvy up the playing time, but things have become clearer in recent weeks. With Rex Burkhead injured, and Mike Gillislee beginning to fall out of favor, Dion Lewis looks poised to take over the Patriots backfield.

Lewis has shown in the past he is a capable leader of the backfield. Prior to injuring his knee in 2015, he was the lead back and played well. He was on the roster bubble all offseason, but the Patriots held onto him and it has proven to be a good decision.

Lewis has seen his playing time and touches increase two consecutive weeks and has made the most of his opportunities. He has led the Patriots backfield in yards and looks to be becoming the lead dog.

Lewis has a great skill set for this offense. He is as adept carrying the ball as he is catching it out of the backfield. James White is the lead passing back, but it is a role Lewis is capable of handling as well.

Lewis is a player to watch not only because of his role increasing, but because the Falcons run defense just got torched last week. Jay Ajayi ripped them apart for 130 yards as the Miami Dolphins committed themselves to the run and it worked. Will the Patriots find the same success on the ground this week?

Home/Patriots News