Rex Burkhead's Health Key To The New England Patriots’ Super Bowl Run

© 2107 Jordan Long

Sports-Scoop.com | Sports with Attitude! 

The New England Patriots are preparing to take on the Buffalo Bills this Sunday.   The Patriots were worried that running back Rex Burkhead might have sustained a serious knee injury in the game against the Steelers last week.  The injury occurred during the 3rd quarter and Burkhead did not return.  An MRI revealed that there was no tear, only a knee sprain.  The Patriots are optimistic that Burkhead will be back for the playoffs, but his status for the rest of the year is unknown.

Burkhead is a large part of the New England Patriots' offense.  He can run the football, with 264 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns so far this season.  His average yards per rush is an impressive 4.1.  When Burkhead runs the football, his size at 5 foot 10 inches makes it difficult for a single defender to wrap him up.  Two or three are needed to take him to the ground.  Burkhead’s yards make 2nd and 3rd downs easier for the Patriots to gain 1st downs.

Burkhead not only runs the football but the defenses must be prepared for him to go out for passes.  When he catches the ball, it is often for long gains and touchdowns.  Burkhead has a total of 254 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns.

Burkhead is an immense loss for the Patriots’ final two games.  Defenses have to game plan for him because of what he can do on the field.  Now that he is out, New England’s running game isn’t as dangerous.  Opposing coaches must find a away to slow down quarterback Tom Brady in the passing game.

The Patriots can’t send Burkhead back out there after only one week.  That might be insufficient time for him to heal.  They should rest him until the playoffs.  They are most likely going to have a 1st-round bye, giving Burkhead even more time to get ready to play.  He could be the reason that the New England Patriots make another deep run to the Super Bowl.