Patriots running back hits stride at the right time

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Patriots running back hits stride at the right time

Karen Guregian · MassLive

Mon, Jan 5, 2026 ·

3 min read

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FOXBOROUGH - Winning playoff games in January can come down to a team’s ability to run the rock, especially when the opposing team knows that’s what’s coming.

Rhamondre Stevenson ’s performance of late (5 touchdowns in last 3 games) should provide a measure of confidence the Patriots will be able to gain those crucial yards when the time comes.

In the season finale against the Miami Dolphins, Stevenson crushed the fish both running and catching the football.

He rushed for 131 yards on 7 carries (18.7 yards per carry) with two touchdowns. He also caught two passes for 22 yards, with a 15-yard touchdown catch.

After some early season fumbling woes, Stevenson has gotten it together.

The past four games, he’s rushed for 279 yards on 29 carries (6.9 ypc) and caught 12 balls for 121 yards and two touchdowns.

TreVeyon Henderson has also improved.

But Stevenson has clearly taken the lead.

Following the Patriots 38-10 win over the Dolphins, Stevenson was asked how he was able to overcome both his fumbling issues, and recent injury woes, to return to being such an impactful back.

“I try to stay pretty level, no matter what’s going on, how good it can get, how bad it can get, I just try to stay level,” Stevenson said. “Back then, when it really wasn’t going my way, just day by day, just putting my best foot forward, and not really trying to get discouraged. My coaches and my teammates made it a little easier on me. They had my back. But honestly, I just try and stay relentless and try to keep the same head space whether it’s going good or bad.”

Patriots quarterback Drake Maye appreciates everything Stevenson bring to the table including pass protection with blitz pickup.

“He’s a tough back. He can move. He’s agile. He’s got a little two-foot jump cut that I just love watching on film. He just makes people miss like that. He’s got great hands. He’s smart,” Maye said following the win. “His blocks in protection unbelievable this year. He always tells me I owe him something. I really do; I do owe him something. He’s done a great job.”

Stevenson, who’s in his fifth season, has seen some lean years of late, so he’s thrilled to get back into the postseason with the Patriots hosting the Los Angeles Chargers in the wild card round.

“I’m very excited ... I’ve been here for a few years, never really got to host a playoff game here at Gillette, so I’m excited for that. I’m just proud of this team. I’m proud of how we fight, I’m proud of how relentless we are.”

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