New England Patriots: Top Super Bowl storylines

Marshawn Lynch is Beast Mode, but New England’s Running Backs Can Power Rush Too.

Everyone knows that Marshawn Lynch puts it into Beast Mode when the Seahawks need to take over a game.

The Patriots have brought the power run game back to life as well. With Jonas Gray and LeGarrette Blount, the Patriots can deploy an overpowering rushing attack that rivals Seattle’s league leading running offense.

Rookie Jonas Gray burst onto the scene in spectacular fashion in a November 16 game at Indianapolis, ripping off 201 yards and 4 touchdowns. He’s been relegated to a backup role since then, however, as LeGarrette Blount and Shane Vereen have split the rushing duties.

In the AFC Championship rematch with the Colts, it was Blount who ripped off 30 carries for 148 yards and 3 touchdowns.

Either way, the Patriots have multiple backs who can physically dominate defenses and wear them down as the game progresses. This will be a key factor in what is being billed as an even matchup – and marks the first time since the Corey Dillon days that they’ll be able to deploy such a weapon in a Super Bowl.

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