Corey Dillon and Laurence Maroney have combined for 304 yards and are ranked third in the league in rushing entering Sunday's game against Denver.
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Add veteran Kevin Faulk to the mix and the Patriots boast what head coach Bill Belichick calls "easily the best backs that we've had" during his tenure in New England. Although it's only Week 3, it's worth noting that Dillon and Maroney are both on pace to rush for more than 1,000 yards.
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Their commitment to improving the running game began in April when they drafted Maroney with the 21st overall pick. They weren't sure what to expect from Dillon, but the 32-year-old veteran arrived at camp in great shape and ready to run. He adjusted his workout regimen to lose weight during the offseason and is now more agile than he was in 2005. He also took Maroney under his wing and guided him throughout the summer.
"Corey's been great," Maroney said. "He helps me out a lot, telling me the insights on things, how to read the defense a little bit better or the proper footwork - just small things like that."
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Dillon was particularly impressive. He ran over Jets safety Kerry Rhodes for a 10-yard gain - the second time in as many games he's plowed over an opposing team's defensive back. He also collided with Buffalo's Troy Vincent in the season opener.
