In the lead up to this week’s contest with the Detroit Lions, pundits and fans wondered how the New England Patriots would attack the league’s number one defense. The stout Lions front four has been making offensive linemen miserable all season long. In Week 12, the Patriots offensive line enjoyed a terrific performance, capped off by the Optimum Offense play of the game.
Tom Brady‘s offense answered the challenge in their 25-point win, racking up 439 yards of offense and scoring 34 points. While the ground game was slowed by the fearsome Lions’ defensive front, a familiar face returned to Foxboro and scored a pivotal 2nd quarter touchdown in his return.
The New England Patriots began a short drive in Detroit Lions’ territory thanks to an 81-yard kickoff return from Danny Amendola. After a screen pass to Brandon LaFell, and a Detroit penalty, the Patriots faced 1st and goal at the 3-yard line. Tom Brady set in the shotgun with LeGarrette Blount next to him and 12 personnel on the field. The defense used their nickel package on this play:
The running back takes the handoff to the left side, following the lead of Ryan Wendell. The right guard is tasked with blocking dangerous Ezekiel Ansah on this play:
How does he do?
He stands the defensive end up in the hole giving Blount enough of a crease to crash into the end zone. Here’s a closer look at the tough block from Wendell:
You know what we have not had in a while? A whoa moment. This qualifies.
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This win keeps New England atop the conference standings and stretches their winning streak to seven games. With a trip to Lambeau Field on tap, the Patriots might need to utilize the running game a bit more in the elements next Sunday. Blount finished the day with 78 yards on 12 carries and two touchdowns. With the bruising runner back in the fold and blocking like this, the offense can rely on the ground attack during the stretch drive.
All video and images courtesy NFL.com and NFL Game Rewind.
Follow Mark on Twitter @MarkSchofield.