Edelman as third down back? - New England Patriots Forums

MrBigglesWorth · 09-22-2010, 03:09 PM

Didn't they experiment a little with him as their third down back?

I'd be worried about durability but used conservatively wouldn't he be a good option?

Sicilian · 09-22-2010, 03:13 PM

My only problem with it is it removes the threat of the run. With Faulk, you had to guard against the draw, a swing pattern, or account that he might stay in to block.

With Edelman, it's unclear whether he can run anywhere near an effective draw, and I haven't seen enough to say he can pick up the blitz well either (for that matter, haven't seen that he CAN'T, there just isn't any evidence).

A third down back is valuable because of the deception in various situations. Edelman doesn't provide that really.

CheeseMonkeys · 09-22-2010, 03:14 PM

He's got the ball skills to be a 3rd down back but the ability to block and durability are in question. I wouldn't mind seeing him back there. Last game he lined up in the backfield at least once or twice. I think Mr. Woodhead is our guy though.

jimmydasaint · 09-22-2010, 03:14 PM

BB already stated the new back they picked up (Moorehead) did it in NY and they plan to use him in that role..

CheeseMonkeys · 09-22-2010, 03:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sicilian

My only problem with it is it removes the threat of the run. With Faulk, you had to guard against the draw, a swing pattern, or account that he might stay in to block.

With Edelman, it's unclear whether he can run anywhere near an effective draw, and I haven't seen enough to say he can pick up the blitz well either (for that matter, haven't seen that he CAN'T, there just isn't any evidence).

A third down back is valuable because of the deception in various situations. Edelman doesn't provide that really.

Edelman is so elusive, I bet you he could run a great draw.

Sicilian · 09-22-2010, 03:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CheeseMonkeys

Edelman is so elusive, I bet you he could run a great draw.

He's got some of the skills for sure, and we all know he's able to learn a new position based on his previous switch. I just think an effective draw is more about patience and vision than it is about physical tools (though those certainly play a part). He may have it, he may not, but I would rather play a guy like Morris or the new guy, who at least have experience in that position.

***mgteich*** · 09-22-2010, 03:20 PM

We have Morris and now Woodhead as potential third down packs.

Edelman would be destroyed. It is not a matter of whether he can run a draw. It is a matter of blocking and facing the big guys coming at him every play.