Wow, wow, wow, wow. How good was last night? Like seriously, it was like us fans had been thrown into a vortex and transferred back a couple of seasons. Here are the ups and downs from Week 13.
Ups ⬆️
Gunner Olszewski
I’ve been as critical as they come of Gunner in recent weeks, and in my defense, for good reason. But yesterday, he sparked into life and showed me that he can be a returner in this league. Whilst the late touchdown pass from Stidham was the icing on the cake of a very impressive day, the punt return touchdown was his shining moment, as well as his other big return later on in the game.
I don’t see his future being on the offense, but I’m happy for him to stick around on special teams. -Just a side note, there’s nothing like seeing guys get their first-ever NFL touchdown, always brings a smile to my face.
Stephon Gilmore
Gilly Lock played a physical game and kept Keenan Allen quiet for the best part of yesterday’s contest. With it being Hopkins last week, Allen was now the recipient of a full-scale lockdown at the hands of the reigning DPOTY. Gilmore restricted Allen to just 4 catches for 48 yards, this was one of my keys in the game preview to shut down LA’s passing game. After an initial shaky start along with injuries, Gilmore is looking strong down the stretch.
Chase Winovich
Ah Wino. What a day for the Zeus impersonator. Jokes aside, Chase Winovich had another solid game to go along with many he’s had this season. Whilst he won’t appear on the stat sheet for the most tackles this week, Wino showed great poise and concentration to snag his first-ever career interception from Herbert. This guy can make plays on both defense and special teams.
Damien Harris
Following a number of quiet weeks, Harris put in a solid display on the ground during yesterday’s domination. Whilst Sony Michel did get a little more involved in the run and pass attack, Harris took the majority of carries and cast away any doubt about who the current RB1 on the team is.
Cam Newton
A smart performance by Cam yesterday. He played smart football, didn’t give up turnovers, ran the ball well, and hit the deck as soon as he felt any sort of pressure. Not the most glamorous of games, but that performance enabled the Patriots to win the game. Cam’s two rushing touchdowns took his tally to 11 for the season, 3 behind the NFL record for rushing touchdowns scored by a QB, a record set by him in 2011.
Wherever Cam plays next season, I’m just glad he’s winning with this team again.
Special Teams
This unit was simply outstanding all game. A punt return for a TD, a blocked field goal returned for a TD. Jake Bailey’s missile kicks, Nick Folk perfect on 1/1 FG and 6/6 XP, and Justin Bethel’s casual punt save on the charger goal line, it was all magical.
Yesterday’s performance showed why special teams is still vital in today’s game, a masterclass.
N’Keal Harry
Harry goes on the ups list for me this week. He’s been under a huge amount of pressure from fans and analysts as his recent performances have not matched up to where he was drafted last April. But, his touchdown pass from Newton was exactly how I want the Pats to use him. When they’re in the red zone, call something that gives him a chance to make a play, they did yesterday and he snagged in a big tuddy. He’s also a good blocker.
In all fairness, I could name so many more players, but these stood out to me the most. Kudos to the entire team.
Downs ⬇️
Nope. Not needed today.
