New England Patriots vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Head-to-Head Matchup

Nov 3, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots running back

(38) is tackled just short of the goal line by Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback

(22) during the first quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

Pittsburgh Steelers Run Defense vs. New England Patriots Run offense: 

I don’t think anyone really knows who will be the lead back for the Patriots this Thursday. The best bet is probably James White or possibly Brandon Bolden, as both Dion Lewis and Travaris Cadet are mostly receiving backs. Still none of these four backs are running backs that should be first or second down backs, which is why the departure of Jonas Gray was such a surprise. The Pats will definitely take a committee approach with Bolden possibly being the goal line back.

The good news for the Patriots is that the Steelers don’t have an all too good run defense. The Steelers ranked 25th last year in yards per attempt given up and their team hasn’t changed to much. The addition of Dupree might be a good addition eventually, but he is still very raw and otherwise they haven’t added anyone who will have a big effect. Outside of  Timmons, the Steelers have a lot of young guys with potential that they have yet to show. If the Patriots are able to establish any type of consistent running game, Pittsburgh is in trouble. In the end I think they will have decent success.

Advantage: Tie (2-2)

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