New England Patriots team grades vs Buffalo Bills Week 13

For the second consecutive week, the Patriots rushing game was outstanding. After piling up 196 yards on 38 carries last week, the Patriots knocked on the 200-yard plateau once again against the Bills.

For a second consecutive week, the Patriots surpassed 190 yards rushing. This week, New England finished the game with 191 yards on 35 carries, averaging 5.5 yards per carry. Once again, it was Dion Lewis leading the way.

If there was any doubt about who the Patriots lead rusher was, it should be put to rest now. Lewis is the leading rusher and will remain in that role for the foreseeable future. Against the Bills, Lewis ran 15 times for 92 yards, averaging 6.1 yards per carry.

After struggling a bit last week. Rex Burkhead had a strong bounce-back game. Burkhead received 12 carries and turned them into 78 yards, averaging 6.5 yards per carry. He scored both touchdowns on the afternoon, the first on a goal-line carry for one yard and the second a 14-yard scamper.

The Bills have one of the most penetrable rushing defenses in the NFL and the Patriots took full advantage. Once again Mike Gillislee was a healthy scratch, so it is fair to question whether he will crack the game day roster again this season unless an injury occurs.