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In spite of New England’s tough 22-12 loss to the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, one player shone brightly once again. Wide receiver Jakobi Meyers played well in defeat and gave quarterback Cam Newton a consistent weapon on a day where he had trouble getting anything going.
Meyers caught seven passes for 111 yards, bringing his total to 505 yards on the season. This was his second 100-yard game of the season, with his first being against the New York Jets on Monday Night Football in November.
On Sunday, the offense was not pretty, but he still managed to make an impact in a big way. He was able to break free of the Miami Dolphins’ defensive backs, who were playing him tightly in this game.
In particular, he had success on slant routes and check down passes that Newton threw. It was very clear from the beginning of the game that he was going to be a major part of the New England Patriots game plan moving forward. He has been the Patriots’ top receiver throughout the entire season, and defenses have keyed on that.
The Miami Dolphins did a good job of trying to cover them. Nevertheless, Meyers used his combination of quickness and agility to confuse the corners.
Meyers is Newton’s security blanket, much like Tom Brady had with Julian Edelman. Although those two may not be able to replicate the postseason success that Brady and Edelman had, it is clear that Meyers and Newton have a strong connection.
This game and this entire season is something for Myers to build off of for 2021. In a year where the offense has struggled, the wide receiver has stepped up and made big plays. I wonder what is next for him. Ideally, he should not be the Patriots’ top option next year, but rather an additional receiving threat for the quarterback to throw to. He has certainly earned his place as a focal point in the Patriots’ offense.
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