FOXBORO — Bill Belichick wanted simply two phrases to specific his emotions about Rhamondre Stevenson on Sunday, minutes after Stevenson had rumbled for a career-high 161 yards within the Patriots’ shutout of the Lions.
The sentiment was so good, Belichick expressed it twice.
“Love him,” he mentioned. “Love him.”
Stevenson took each carry for the Patriots after their second drive of a 29-0 win, when starter Damien Harris was sidelined early by a hamstring damage. Stevenson broke 5 tackles on the longest play of the sport, a 49-yard rush up the center. It highlighted the stability in his recreation Belichick and teammates have come to like: Stevenson can bowl defenders over and break free from them.
“He is a really good football player. Really a good football player. So glad we have him,” Belichick mentioned. “Had a couple of blitz pickup plays right up the middle where he stepped up there. He is a good all-around back.”
Asked about his efficiency, Stevenson credited the Patriots’ offensive line, which entered kickoff as among the finest run-blocking items within the league. He averaged 6.4 yards per carry Sunday.
“I feel like those guys up front, they really led the way, for me and Bailey Zappe today,” Stevenson mentioned. “Just because of how hard they were moving people, how hard they were working, things like that. So just those guys up front, I have all the respect for them. Much love.”
Stevenson additionally caught two passes for 14 yards. If Harris is sidelined for an prolonged time frame, it’s possible Stevenson will tackle a lead function with fourth-round rookie Pierre Strong, a wholesome scratch Sunday, as his backup. The Patriots even have veteran Ty Montgomery on injured reserve with a knee damage, although his restoration timeline is unknown.
Source: www.bostonherald.com
