New England Patriots: 3 X-factors to beating Titans in Wild Card Round
1. Julian Edelman
Julian Edelman has continued to be an important aspect and player within the New England offensive unit. When the veteran wide receiver steps up and puts together a strong performance, the Patriots have often thrived and have come away with a victory.
On the flip side of that, when Edelman is held in check by opposing defenses, it has strongly limited New England in what it’s able to accomplish in the passing game and what it is able to do on offense in general.
How Edelman performs on Saturday night at home in the opening round of the playoffs will be something to keep an eye on early on and often throughout the game. If he is able to make an impact early in the contest, don’t be surprised to see the Patriots jump out to a lead over the Titans in the game.
During the regular season, Edelman was by far the most impactful receiver within the New England offensive unit, finishing the year with 100 receptions for a total of 1,117 yards and six receiving touchdowns, all team-best marks. The veteran wide receiver also managed to average 11.2 yards per catch, tallying a season-long reception of 44 yards during the year.
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In looking at the various x-factors that will be important to the Patriots as it takes on the Titans in the AFC Wild Card Game on Saturday night at Gillette Stadium, keep an eye on Edelman as he might just be the most important aspect to the New England offense and how it sets the tone in front of its home fans in the postseason contest.