The Patriots lack of a playmaker was once again evident in Sunday’s 15-10 win over the Jets.

New England had several opportunities to blow the game open but the lack of a skill player who can stretch the field and make defenders miss in space hindered the offense once again.

Having to drive the hall on every possession is hard. You need to mix in short drives that are the result of big plays. We haven’t seen that yet from the Patriots this season.

The closest thing they have to an explosive playmaker is DeVante Parker, who is a fade ball specialist. The only other skill player that could possibly fit the bill is rookie wide receiver Demario Douglas. Neither has made many big plays thus far this season. 

The lack of a playmaker was an issue last season as well. It is why the Patriots started using cornerback Marcus Jones more on offense more. He gave them an explosive offensive player who can make people miss. 

Jones is currently out with a shoulder injury but when he returns, the Patriots should consider using him on offense once again. He could add that much needed big play element this team is lacking. 

Bill Belichick tried to upgrade the skill group this off-season with the additions of wide receiver Juju Smith-Schuster and Mike Gesicki but neither guy is an explosive skill player and they have yet to make a difference.

I know it may seem simplistic but the lack of big plays is a problem for this team. The Patriots cannot continue to operate as if Tom Brady is still here. They cannot continue to be methodical on offense. They need to find a way to make more explosive plays. 

Unfortunately, there is nothing they can do now. The skill group they have is the group they have to go with. The lack of speed and big play capability is hindering the offense. It is why the Patriots are not as good as they could be offensively.