Former Alabama running back and 2019 third-round selection by the New England Patriots Damien Harris has found himself in an ideal situation when it comes to earning a starting spot and proving his value.
With former Georgia running back, and Patriots lead back, Sony Michel out due to injury, Harris has had the opportunity to shine. In last night’s upset win over the Baltimore Ravens, Harris did just that and he impressed the nation.
He totaled 22 carries for over 120 yards, but wasn’t able to find the touchdown. What the box score won’t show is how big of a difference-maker he was for the Patriots on offense, keeping the fast-pace tempo going, leaving the Baltimore defense struggling.
“We knew we were facing a tough, physical team that kind of wanted to bully us and push us around, but we wanted to stand up for ourselves and go out there and show how tough and physical we are,” said Harris.“That was kind of the mentality of the whole team tonight and we went out there and competed hard for 60 minutes and we were able to come out with a great win against a great team.”
With Michel able to come back into the game and be taken off the injured reserve list, it is imperative for Harris to conitnue playng at such a high level to help New England get back into the swing of things after falling behind and sitting behind the Buffalo Bills and the Miami Dolphins in the AFC East race.
Tyler Sullivan of CBS Sports predicts Harris should be the go-to guy for New England from now on.
“Even as the backfield reaches its full strength, the pecking order should continue to begin with Harris, who has taken hold of this starting spot and has, quite literally, run away with it,” writes Sullivan.
Roll Tide Wire will keep you updated on Harris as he makes his way through season No. 2 in the NFL with the New England Patriots.