Patriots running game struggles:
Last season, the Patriots were able to run the football very effectively. Not only could they pound the ball up the middle, but they were also able to hit quick passes that were essentially run plays. This season, the Patriots have had very little success running the football. In fact, ball carriers in New England have a collective average of 3.5 yards per carry this season, among the worst in the NFL.
There are several reasons for this. One is that the blocking has not been there. Rob Gronkowski was a fierce run blocker at the end of his career and had the capability to take on linebackers like few tight ends in the NFL. Additionally, James Develin, the Patriots fierce run blocking fullback is out for the season. Finally, a reason that is not talked about enough is that many defenses are not scared of the passing offense. Julian Edelman and Muhammad Sanu are not exactly world-beaters. Brady is 42 years old. Defenses have been able to key in on their rushing offense and it has not looked good this season.
This is mentioned, of course, because the Chiefs have one of the worst run defenses in football. While it has seemingly steadily improved over the last several weeks, it is still a place of anxiety for the defense. As many will remember, the Patriots were able to run up and down the field on the Chiefs last season. This season, it will be a different story.