FOXBORO, Mass. — It’s probably no coincidence that the New England Patriots’ offense finally clicked as their line played its best game of the season.
Quarterback Tom Brady was hit only once in the Patriots’ 43-17 win over the Cincinnati Bengals on a sack allowed by tight end Rob Gronkowski. Otherwise, the Patriots QB was free to pass for 292 yards while completing 23 of 35 throws and staying clean.
The offensive line struggled mightily in its first four games of the season, and any glimmer of hope displayed during that stretch was quickly met with equally disappointing play. Everything finally seemed to click against a Bengals front that features top NFL talent.
“We’re not working to get worse,” a jovial Ryan Wendell cracked after the game.
Wendell seemed to solidify the unit with his presence at right guard. The position has been uncertain all season, with Jordan Devey, Dan Connolly and rookie Cameron Fleming all receiving reps, but Wendell helped the Patriots to their best passing and running game of the season. The Patriots rushed for 220 yards on 46 carries with a touchdown, while the offensive line helped the Patriots win the time-of-possession battle 38:56 to 21:04.
“Our runners, man. When our runners run like that, it’s fun to watch,” Wendell said.
The sixth-year veteran, who started his first game of the season, said it was “tough” to watch from the sidelines for the better part of four games. He was bashful when asked if this version of the line was the best the Patriots have trotted out all year.
“Shoot, I don’t know. We have a lot of great players, so that’s up to (head coach Bill Belichick and offensive line coach Dave DeGuglielmo),” Wendell said.
The Patriots have seemed hesitant to play Wendell, instead electing to try out young players at new positions. Fleming, who had never played the interior line before last week’s unexpected start against the Kansas City Chiefs, floundered. Wendell looked like an old pro and should continue to see opportunities to start.
Photo via Stew Milne/USA TODAY Sports Images
