Patriots Rushing Defense
The Patriots’ struggles this year have been on offense, not defense. For instance, the Pats defense yields the sixth lowest average yards per play (4.9). This is largely due to the fact that the Patriots are exceptional against the run, being second in the entire NFL, permitting only 3.4 yards a rushing attempt. So, what kind of rushing attack are the Commanders going to be able to manufacture against the Pats on Sunday?
Patriots’ Blitzing Defense
Sam Howell and the Commanders offense has experienced much trouble when opposing defenses come after Howell. The Patriots have blitzed opposing quarterbacks the second-highest times in the NFL (123). Thus, there will be less time, forcing Sam Howell to make quicker decisions as to where he is going with the ball. Howell will be forced to make a quick read with the Pats blitzing as often as they do.
The Patriots hurry opposing quarterbacks
The Patriots have accumulated the third-highest rates of quarterback hurries in the NFL. The Jets lead with 13.7%, followed by the Lions (11.5%) and the Pats at 11.1%. Can the Commanders offensive line remain composed enough to handle the Pats’ pressure, keeping Howell standing and able to make decisions in the pocket?
The Commanders Offensive Inconsistency
Simply put, the Commanders offense has been so up and down this season they have yet to put together two consecutive good games. After playing well last week, can the offense make this the first time they have consecutive good games? The Patriots defense is tenth overall in touchdowns permitted in the Red Zone. So, this will be a challenge for Sam Howell to convert on Sunday when in the red zone.