What Happens if Cam Newton Can’t Run? 

For anybody who guessed the Patriots would deploy a run-first mindset on offense following the signing of Cam Newton, congratulations, because you hit the nail right on the head. In Week 1 against Miami, the three-time Pro Bowler logged 15 carries for 75 yards and two touchdowns, breaking a slew of team records in the process.

With that being said, it’ll be interesting to see if Newton enjoys that much success with his legs now that the rest of the league has a full game worth of snaps to analyze in the film room. You have to think the Seahawks have spent the week dissecting that film and are currently brainstorming ways to stop the run. 

That’s easier said than done, but if Seattle is able to at least limit Newton, he will be forced to beat them through the air. The former MVP is obviously capable of doing so, but we simply have no idea how he will manage that burden in a new system. Not to mention that the Patriots wide receiving corps is nothing to write home about. 

If you are planning on watching this game, keep an eye on Bill Belichick potentially abandoning the run if Newton doesn’t establish a rhythm early on. If he does, the Patriots could be in a world of trouble.