Rhamondre Stevenson Among Five Patriots to Watch vs. Panthers

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots are looking to return to the win column as they prepare for their Week 4 matchup against the Carolina Panthers at Gillette Stadium.

The Patriots (1-2) suffered a disappointing defeat at the hands the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3 on their home field, turning the ball over five times in the 21-14 loss. Conversely, the Panthers (1-2) enter this contest on the heels of a decisive, 30-0 victory over the Atlanta Falcons at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.

While New England has shown flashes of prowess on both sides of the ball, Carolina’s talent and big-play capabilities might allow them the opportunity to control the action in Foxborough.  

Though many of New England’s notables are expected to garner some attention during this upcoming matchup, here are five players that might raise an eyebrow when the Pats take the field against the Panthers.

Rhamondre Stevenson

Following a career-best performance against the Miami Dolphins in Week 2, Stevenson’s issues with securing the football once again surfaced in Week 3, finishing the day with only four carries for 18 yards. He also caught three passes for 38 yards. Most importantly, the Pats' starting running back fumbled the ball twice in crucial situations for the team’s offense. Stevenson’s difficulties resulted in his lowest snap total of the season, aligning on only 27 plays on offense. Despite his unquestionably rough outing, head coach Mike Vrabel advised earlier this week that Stevenson will neither be benched nor subject to any in-game punitive action. Instead, all indications are that he resumes his duties as the team’s starting running back. Still, his usage will be worth an extra look against Carolina in Week 4 — especially if his troubles with ball security continue into this week’s game. Should Stevenson falter, look for either rookie TreVeyon Henderson or veteran Antonio Gibson to handle the lead duties.

Stefon Diggs

Could this be the week in which quarterback Drake Maye finally connects with Diggs on a scoring strike. The two-time All-Pro has gradually seen an increase in offensive snaps with each passing week, largely due to his continued recovery from last season’s ACL injury. Though the first three games, he has caught 13 passes for 112 yards. Still, his impeccable route-running skills supplies him with the prowess to find success both before and after the catch. As such, Diggs still has the above-average burst, along with the speed in his stride, to be a factor in McDaniel’s offensive attack — whether it be horizontally or vertically. If Maye begins to look to the veteran wideout for significant-yardage gains early in this game, it may signal his desire to incorporate Diggs into New England’s scoring rotation.