5 Patriots players the Carolina Panthers must keep quiet in Week 9
By Jason Huber
Damien Harris – RB
It’s been a while since the New England Patriots have run an offense with a true lead running back. However, this year is starting to head in that direction judging by what we’ve seen so far.
While running back Damien Harris hasn’t become a complete work-horse, he has done the most with opportunities, leading the team by a large margin in carries with 118 and is on pace for 1,000 rushing yards.
His 517 rushing yards rank sixth in the NFL through eight weeks. Yet another former Alabama stud that’s thriving under Bill Belichick.
Harris has now scored a rushing touchdown in four-straight games. If he can punch one in against the Carolina Panthers this week, he’ll be tied for the third-most consecutive contests with a rushing score in NFL history.
Two weeks ago, Harris had a two-touchdown game. So the Panthers have to do everything they can to try and eliminate him out of the offense.
If he can be managed, the Patriots’ running back depth isn’t anything special with the rest of their active players being more suited to pass-catching responsibilities.
Carolina ranks 13th against the run this season. It would be a good week to have another dominant performance against Harris.