Posted on Oct 05

Patriots bench Rhamondre Stevenson as starting running back, stress importance of ball security

u/alex • 4m

Patriots bench Rhamondre Stevenson due to fumbling issues, Antonio Gibson expected to start

Why it matters: Stevenson's fumbling problems have led to a change in the Patriots' starting running back position, highlighting the team's commitment to ball security and the need for reliable playmakers in crucial situations.

What's new: Head coach Jerod Mayo announced that while Stevenson won't be starting, he will still have a role in the game. Antonio Gibson is expected to take over as the starter against the Miami Dolphins.

Why it matters: This decision sends a strong message to the team about the importance of protecting the football and prioritizing winning over individual performances.

Jerod Mayo on Rhamondre Stevenson: "Had a conversation with Rhamondre and he won't be starting... But he will play. And he understands he has to protect the football going forward."
Jerod Mayo on the decision: "We can't preach 'ball security is job security' and still have him out there the majority of the time... I think it sends a stronger message to the players that there are certain things that we just can't do to win."

Yes, but: While Stevenson's fumbling issues are concerning, his overall performance has been notable.

He has played 159 snaps, rushed for 267 yards on 65 carries with two touchdowns, and contributed nine receptions for 34 yards.
Stevenson's potential and talent make him a valuable asset to the team, despite his struggles with ball security.

What to watch: Keep an eye on how Stevenson responds to this benching and whether he can make the necessary adjustments to improve his ball security.

The Patriots will also rely on Antonio Gibson, who has been the top backup and has shown promise in limited opportunities.
The running back position remains a key area to watch as the Patriots seek more stability and consistency in their ground game.

The bottom line: Fumbling issues have led to a change in the Patriots' starting running back position, as Rhamondre Stevenson is benched in favor of Antonio Gibson.

This decision emphasizes the team's commitment to ball security and sends a message about the importance of protecting the football.
Stevenson will still have a role in the game, but his fumbling issues highlight the need for improvement in order to contribute effectively.

#rhamondre-stevenson #nfl #patriots

Patriots bench Rhamondre Stevenson as starting running back, stress importance of ball security

Patriots bench Rhamondre Stevenson due to fumbling issues, Antonio Gibson expected to start

Why it matters: This decision sends a strong message to the team about the importance of protecting the football and prioritizing winning over individual performances.

Jerod Mayo on Rhamondre Stevenson: "Had a conversation with Rhamondre and he won't be starting... But he will play. And he understands he has to protect the football going forward."

Jerod Mayo on the decision: "We can't preach 'ball security is job security' and still have him out there the majority of the time... I think it sends a stronger message to the players that there are certain things that we just can't do to win."

Yes, but: While Stevenson's fumbling issues are concerning, his overall performance has been notable.

He has played 159 snaps, rushed for 267 yards on 65 carries with two touchdowns, and contributed nine receptions for 34 yards.

Stevenson's potential and talent make him a valuable asset to the team, despite his struggles with ball security.

What to watch: Keep an eye on how Stevenson responds to this benching and whether he can make the necessary adjustments to improve his ball security.

The Patriots will also rely on Antonio Gibson, who has been the top backup and has shown promise in limited opportunities.

The running back position remains a key area to watch as the Patriots seek more stability and consistency in their ground game.

The bottom line: Fumbling issues have led to a change in the Patriots' starting running back position, as Rhamondre Stevenson is benched in favor of Antonio Gibson.

This decision emphasizes the team's commitment to ball security and sends a message about the importance of protecting the football.

Stevenson will still have a role in the game, but his fumbling issues highlight the need for improvement in order to contribute effectively.