Patriots at Lions
Game Info
Kickoff: Thursday, 8/8 at 7:30 PM
Location: Ford Field-Detroit, MI
Betting Odds: NE -1 via Oddsshark
Network: Not Nationally Televised
New England Patriots
Backfield Shell Game
As many of us have found out the hard way, it is often tough to predict what the Patriots are thinking when it comes to their running backs. Just when we thought Sony Michel was the workhorse, they go and draft Damien Harris. Not only that but they also have Rex Burkhead and James White, who they love to line up at different spots within their formations. It is unlikely that we receive any clarity to this situation in one preseason game but I am excited to see Harris’s debut. If I had to make my best guess, Burkhead and White will continue to be the primary passing backs. Meanwhile, Michel and Harris will dominate the early-down and goal-line work. However, you know what happens when you start trying to predict this offense.
Where Are the Offensive Weapons?
The Patriots are famous for making little-known players household names. However, this season, the arsenal seems more barren than I can ever recall. With Julian Edelman nursing a thumb injury, Rob Gronkowski seemingly enjoying retirement, and Josh Gordon still suspended by the league, the offensive options are lacking. I would suspect that the Patriots continue to implore a heavy run game but when they do need a playmaker, who will they turn to? Perhaps Phillip Dorsett or Demaryius Thomas? Thursday’s game should shed some light on the situation.
Detroit Lions
Time to Gawk Over Hock?
There have been whispers from Lions’ Camp that T.J. Hockenson has been putting on a spectacle during training camp. It is also rumored that the Lions will be utilizing him heavily in the offense from the jump. Someone has to soak up the targets left behind from Golden Tate and Theo Riddick. Hopefully, we are treated to the same show that Lions’ fans have been seeing this offseason. Hockenson could quickly become one of the best late-round TEs to snag.
Will C.J. Anderson Continue His Resurgence?
We saw Anderson come on strong at the end of last year and lead the Rams to a Super Bowl. However, the Rams did not think enough of him to keep him around as their insurance policy. The Lions came calling and there is little standing in his way to viable opportunity. With Him and Kerryon Johnson as the clear-cut backs, Anderson could have a serviceable role within this offense. He will either be a productive handcuff or a nuisance to Johnson owners, or perhaps both?
-Aaron Rader