The New England Patriots were able to keep their perfect start to the 2019 NFL season going with a 27-13 victory over the Cleveland Browns in Week 8. Regardless, they still continue to face some glaring issues on the offensive side of the ball.
The Patriots still have yet to put together a consistent run game thus far. Offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia is admittedly unsatisfied with his group's inability to get some push up front, via ESPN’s Mike Reiss:
“No one is satisfied with it,” Scharnecchia said. “I think we have good backs. We have to do better up front. I have to do a lot better. Let’s leave it at that. It’s not very pleasing.”
It is no secret that New England has been carried by their formidable defense up to this point in the year. Although they have established a recipe for success, it is clear that their lackluster ground attack has become a cause for concern among the coaching staff.
The Patriots currently rank at No. 23 in rushing yards per game (95.3). While their struggles can be attributed to the injuries along the offensive line and the absence of fullback James Develin, this team has always made it a point to make do with the players on their roster. Despite the absence of some key players, Scharnecchia's high expectations for this group has not changed.
There is certainly no shortage of talent in New England's backfield between Sony Michel and James White. Regardless, they will have their work cut out trying to establish a strong run game in Week 9 against a Baltimore Ravens defense that is currently giving up the third-fewest rushing yards per game this season (84.3).
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