3 key things to know about Chargers’ Week 13 opponent, Patriots

Chargers Wire’s Gavino Borquez previews the New England Patriots.

The Chargers are looking to show some life after suffering their eighth loss, as they’re set to go to battle against the Patriots this Sunday.

Here are three things to know about Los Angeles’ Week 13 opponent:

Checking in on Cam

The Patriots acquired quarterback Cam Newton before the start of the season, eventually being named the starter. It’s been an up and down season for Newton, who is 5-5 as the successor to QB Tom Brady. While he has thrived at running the football, carrying the football 92 times for 387 yards and nine touchdowns, Newton has struggled as a passer. The former No. 1 overall selection has nine interceptions, three fumbles, has taken 18 sacks and has only thrown four touchdown passes. His struggles could be due to the lingering effects from his shoulder injury or simply confident issues. But New England has tailored their offense around him, resorting to a run-heavy approach.


Running wild

Like I mentioned, the Patriots have shifted to a run-heavy offense and the team is thriving on the ground. New England is fifth in the NFL, averaging 149.6 yards per game. RB Damien Harris serves as the team’s early down option, James White has the change-of-pace role while Newton is deadly in the red zone and short yardage situations. RB Sony Michel, who’s been out since Week 3 should also be back in the mix.


How’s their defense?

The Patriots have produced a mixed bag of results. After getting owned by Texans QB Deshaun Watson, the defense held Cardinals QB Kyler Murray last weekend to one of his worst offensive outputs of the season, limiting him to less than 200 passing yards and only 31 yards rushing. Their pass defense, which features a strong secondary, including former Chargers safety Adrian Phillips, is No. 14 in the NFL, allowing 229.2 yards per game while their run defense is No. 21, allowing 123.3 YPG. New England has only gotten to the quarterback 11 times this season.