Five bold predictions as the Patriots host the Colts in week nine
By Fran Brown
![FOXBOROUGH, MA - OCTOBER 24: Rhamondre Stevenson #38 of the New England Patriots celebrates with Jakobi Meyers #16 after scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears at Gillette Stadium on October 24, 2022 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images) FOXBOROUGH, MA - OCTOBER 24: Rhamondre Stevenson #38 of the New England Patriots celebrates with Jakobi Meyers #16 after scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears at Gillette Stadium on October 24, 2022 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/6318036c7780d712b0b3c5812368c811c9d9bcc5ee5735e0922323b2009f0138.jpg)
Five bold predictions for Patriots in week nine
Nick Folk kicks at least three field goals
It’s safe to wonder where the Patriots would be without Nick Folk, especially as the offense continues to struggle in the red zone. Through eight weeks, the Patriots are 29th in the NFL with 11 touchdowns in 24 trips to the red zone (45.6%). They’ve been able to generate points because of the reliability of Folk, 15/17 (88.2%) on the season. Twice (against Detroit and last week), Folk has had to kick at least 5 field goals because the offense stalled near the goal line. At least Folk was rewarded for his efforts.
Nick Folk is the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week. @nickfolk2 pic.twitter.com/S0iir3KwRs
— Patriots Nation (@PatsNationTM) November 2, 2022
With the Patriots facing a stout defense, one that has allowed touchdowns on less than 60% of trips inside the 20-yard line, I can see Folk unfortunately having another big day with his leg.