The New England Patriots’ passing attack has recently been on an upswing, which has helped the team turn its season around through five games played.
And the unit’s aggressiveness in getting the ball down the field this season speaks volumes through the numbers.
According to Sharp Football Analytics’ Warren Sharp, the Patriots offense ranks among the NFL’s best in several key downfield metrics, including share of throws traveling at least 20 air yards at 20 percent (No. 1), and share of throws traveling 15 or more air yards at 30 percent (No. 2), air yards per attempt at 9.2 (No. 3) and 10-plus yard gains per attempt at 33% percent (No. 4).
Drake Maye has shown a willingness to push the ball down the field and challenge opposing defenses. Though he has had his share of struggles this season, particularly with ball security, he still leads the league in interceptions thrown with seven. However, he has found ways to increase his completion percentage, which now sits at 65.6 percent, and find his receivers on deep balls for touchdowns.
Attacking deeper portions of the field at opportune times has been the name of New England’s game dating back to last season, and that is still an integral part of the team’s fabric.
With A.J. Brown nearing a return from injury, he will give the Patriots their No. 1 weapon in their passing attack. Brown’s ability to create separation, win contested catches and threaten defenses vertically will offer Maye another reliable option downfield.
His return figures to also free up his teammates, given how much attention he demands, creating additional opportunities for New England’s offense to generate explosive plays.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots offense is top 5 in four underrated categories this season