Though the New England Patriots are an impressive 11-2, it's safe to say that their running game is not their core strength. The Pats rank just 27th in rushing yards per game (90.6) and 24th in average yards per carry (3.8), though the team is tied for sixth in rushing touchdowns (13). With fantasy football playoffs in full swing and the running back position yet again pretty thin, owners likely have a couple New England backs on their roster at the moment.
But with LeGarrette Blount hurt, which Pats ball carrier should you go with this weekend?
"Brandon Bolden (5-foot-11, 220 pounds) is now the Patriots' top power back but has never had more than 16 carries in an NFL game," ESPN's Mike Reiss wrote. "Coach Bill Belichick told me Bolden's role could expand against a Tennessee run defense that's allowing 4.0 yards per carry this season. The Patriots still might promote Montee Ball or Joey Losefa off the practice squad to add depth, but right now it's Bolden as the power option, with James White the change-of-pace option."
When it comes to a Belichick RB, you never know what exactly is going to go down. He loves to play musical chairs with the position. But Reiss is right to highlight Bolden as the most start-worthy option. In his four seasons with New England, Bolden has carried the ball 174 times for 744 yards (4.3 YPC) and six touchdowns while catching 35 passes for 298 yards and two additional scores. White doesn't have nearly the same track record with the team after just 14 career games.
Tennessee's run defense is just short of middle-of-the-pack, ranking 17th in rushing yards allowed per game (111.5) and 20th in rushing touchdowns (10). With tight end Rob Gronkowski back in the lineup and wide receiver Julian Edelman possibly returning, New England's offense could receive a nice boost which bodes well for Bolden's fantasy value.
Is he an ideal option to start in the playoffs? Absolutely not. But if you're in a jam and have to decide between the two Pats rushers, Bolden is the pick.
