New England Patriots Rule Out Four Out Against Redskins

The New England Patriots are playing the Washington Redskins on Sunday, and four of their top players won’t take part in the game.

New England ruled out running back Rex Burkhead (foot) and safeties Patrick Chung (heel) and Nate Ebner (groin) won’t play against the Redskins. Tight end Ben Watson won’t travel with the team, too.

Burkhead, Chung and Ebner were limited participants this week, and they were ruled questionable on Friday. Julian Edelman and Dont’a Hightower were listed as questionable, but will probably play.

According to Mike Florio, “New England running back James White will score two touchdowns, with his playing time rising because he’s a top pass protector and the Redskins are a heavy blitz team. Also note that the Redskins enter the game ranked 29th in rushing yards allowed per game (147.5).”

John Keim agrees on this one.

“Can the Redskins do anything to slow the Patriots’ offense? The Pats are coming off a 16-point performance in which quarterback Tom Brady completed just 18 of 39 passes for 150 yards and an interception. For the season on third downs, he’s completing only 48.9% of his passes and owns a 78.0 passer rating. But he’ll face a Redskins defense that, on third down, allows QBs to complete 87.2% of their throws and post a 140.5 passer rating.”

The same applies to Gregg Rosenthal. He said, “To compare pass rushes, the Patriots have 21 sacks and 83 total disruptions, according to PFF, with role players like Lawrence Guy and John Simon providing great value. The Redskins have four sacks and 51 total disruptions with first-round pick Montez Sweat and even perennial Pro Bowler Ryan Kerrigan struggling to make an impact.”

Mike Dussault is on the same team, too.

“The Redskins and their 29th-ranked run defense is just what the Patriots need to get their offense on track. Defensively it won’t really matter who plays quarterback for Washington, they’re going to struggle to move the ball. New additions Ben Watson and Mike Nugent should both play roles that ease some worries. The Patriots are undefeated and in great position, but expect this to be the kind of win that puts some of their offensive struggles behind them and leaves the rest of the NFL trembling.”