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

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HOUSTON, TX – FEBRUARY 05: Devonta Freeman #24 of the Atlanta Falcons runs for a first down against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

Falcons Running Back, Devonta Freeman

Behind Julio Jones, Devonta Freeman is the best playmaker the Falcons have. Freeman has established himself as one of the best running backs in the NFL, which could spell trouble for the Patriots.

Prior to the game against the New York Jets in Week 6, the Patriots run defense has a sieve. The Patriots stuffed Matt Forte and Elijah McGuire last week but struggled prior to that. Kareem Hunt, Lamar Miller, Mark Ingram, Jonathan Stewart and Doug Martin all averaged over four yards per carry against them. There is a good chance Freeman continues that trend.

Freeman averaged 7.5 yards per carry against the Dolphins last week, ripping off chunk gains with ease. The Patriots run defense looked good last week, but can they contain someone as talented as Freeman?

Not only is Freeman trouble carrying the ball, he is a good receiver as well. He can be a difference maker in both facets of the game, making him someone the Patriots need to key in on.

Of all the players the Falcons have offensively, Freeman could be the one the Patriots need to key in on the most. If they are unable to stop the running game, the Falcons will be able to control the tempo and pace of the game.

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