Time of possession will be essential in Patriots’ task to defeat Chiefs

The Patriots will have to control the clock against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs.

The New England Patriots (2-1) have an extremely tough matchup in Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs (3-0).

Stopping the reigning Super Bowl MVP, Patrick Mahomes, will obviously be the first objective for Bill Belichick. The Chiefs are in the top-5 of total yards per game (433) and passing yards per game (292). New England is the 11th best team against the pass, after getting lit up by Russell Wilson for five touchdowns through the air.

Despite losing Tom Brady, key players and having a league-high eight opt-outs this season, the Patriots are still a successful group. How have they maintained that? Complimentary football is the simple answer.

Special teams play has been excellent through three games, they’ve got the second-best turnover differential and a league-leading 178 rushing yards per game. Simply enough, this will be the answer to defeating a Mahomes-led team.

The Patriots won both games when they led the time of possession battle and they lost to the Seattle Seahawks when they lost that battle. New England’s offensive line is one the best in the league right now and the running back corps is loaded with talent.

As ESPN’s Mike Reiss eluded to, New England will have to prevent big plays and control the tempo on offense. This is where Cam Newton plays a huge factor. With Tom Brady, the Patriots were predictable and it made it easier to sniff out a run and pass play. Newton’s ability to rush, extend plays and score at any moment will keep the Chiefs on their toes.

Newton has 149 rushing yards and four touchdowns on the ground through three games. In what was expected to be a failed season, Newton has the Patriots ranked No. 8 in total yards per game (409) through the first three weeks.

New England is capable on offense and the Chiefs are a mid-tier team in terms of defensive efficiency. This opens up room for Newton and the elusive running backs to control tempo and keep Mahomes off the field.

If the Patriots can control the clock, then then likelihood of a Week 4 win will skyrocket.

[vertical-gallery id=95441]