NFL Playoffs 2019: One X-factor for each team in Conference Championships

By Randy Gurzi | Jan 19, 2019

NEW ORLEANS, LA - NOVEMBER 27: Jared Goff #16 of the Los Angeles Rams is sacked by Dannell Ellerbe #59 of the New Orleans Saints and Cameron Jordan #94 during the second half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on November 27, 2016 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

New England Patriots: James White, Running Back

Much like with the Chiefs, the Patriots will rely mainly on their star quarterback in this game. Tom Brady has won five Super Bowls in his career and is an absolute stud in these kinds of games. He’s going to make his plays, but as always, this game will be about those around him stepping up their play.

One guy who has done that in the playoffs for New England is running back James White. Last season, White had four total touchdowns as a runner and receiver for the Pats and in their win over the Los Angeles Chargers, he again showed his worth to the offense.

White was a great outlet for Brady as he was on the receiving end of 15 passes and managed 97 yards on those receptions. He didn’t get a touchdown, but he was there for Brady whenever pressure would come in and that will again be his role.

Joey Bosa of Los Angeles grew frustrated by how quickly Brady got the ball out of his hands and oftentimes it was White who he was targeting. Hitting the check down and having such big results can be demoralizing for a defense and as the Patriots look to keep the high-scoring Chiefs off the field, this duo will once again be huge.

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