The New England Patriots will enter the playoffs on a high note after a 38-10 home win over the Miami Dolphins.
New England finished the year as the AFC’s No. 2 seed and will host the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday. The Patriots were led by running back Rhamondre Stevenson, who rushed for 131 yards and two touchdowns, along with 22 receiving yards.
Following Stevenson’s performance, Vrabel praised the veteran running back for his play.
“Just building his confidence,” Vrabel said postgame about what he’s seen from Stevenson as of late on Sunday. “I appreciate all of our backs’ ability to protect, and Rhamondre does that. I think that goes sometimes unnoticed, and I know that that’s not as sexy or exciting as the run game production and the pass receiving, but he cares deeply about this team.
“I was excited to be able to have him be a game captain for us, and I think he’s just continued to get better. He’s continued to make people miss and to run hard and still protect the football.”
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Stevenson also didn’t fumble once in the final nine games, after he had some fumble issues earlier in the year. Vrabel credited Stevenson’s work at practice to fix the issue.
“Just hard work and perseverance,” Vrabel said. “I think Tony and all the offensive coaches do a great job in emphasizing ball security, and I think just him being, we kind of felt like we got into a little flow with him and TreVeyon and Rhamondre and kind of figuring out where that balance was, and I think that they did a great job. We need them both.”
New England will host Los Angeles on Sunday at 8 p.m. ET. The Patriots are a 3.5-point favorite.
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Featured image via Brian Fluharty/Imagn Images
