Very quietly, the New England Patriots have one of the best run games in the league and much of that can be credited to the success of Dion Lewis who was a relative unknown to start the season. The Patriots are averaging 92.5 rushing yards per game which is more than enough when they are averaging 331.3 yards in the air per game. Lewis is at the forefront of those numbers as he begins to replace LeGarrette Blount on the field.
Lewis is now the leading man in New England. The running back was originally a one-game fill-in for Blount, but he has since cemented his name as the starter for the team. Lewis is averaging 45 yards on the ground and another 59.5 through the air per game as one of the biggest x-factors for New England right now. In terms of fantasy, Lewis is the go-to over Blount. Heading into a headline-filled game against the Colts, Lewis is prepared to be the workhorse for the team. Head coach Chuck Pagano is aware of what Lewis can do.
"Great player, playing at a high level right now. He's done an excellent job running the football, he's a threat in the pass game, No. 2 on the team in receiving. He's a matchup nightmare, whether they're bringing him out of the backfield or putting him out in empty formations, getting the matchup they want and getting the football in his hands," said Pagano, via the Boston Globe. "He's extremely quick, got great vision, really strong, powerful guy for a little guy."
Blount will get his carries, especially against an Indianapolis team he has torched in the past. However, it might not be enough to take a gamble on him in terms of fantasy. One player to begin eyeing for fantasy help is Brandon LaFell who is set to make his return for the Patriots. According to Mike Reiss of ESPN, LaFell is working out for New England and did make the trip for Week 6. However, he is not actually allowed to step on the field until Week 7. Owners should pick him up off the waiver wire now before it is too late.
Week 6 against the Colts could be when players like Danny Amendola have a big game. The Colts have had trouble with slot receivers this season and Amendola could be on the rise. Scott Chandler is also a player to watch out for as the tight end is earning his looks from Brady. Aaron Dobson is also helping be a key contributor for Brady as he has 101 yards on the season. The Colts currently rank 18th against the run in the league which is where Brady will find success, but expect names like Dobson, Amendola and Chandler to be utilized.
