The Patriots fumbled away a chance to steal a game from the Bengals on Christmas Eve and put their backs up against the wall in the race for a playoff spot as the season enters its final two weeks.
One significant positive development in the loss was the usage of Kendrick Bourne. The diminished role of Bourne has been a flummoxing problem all season. Against the Bengals, Bourne had his biggest impact of the season and if the Patriots are going to make the playoffs that will need to continue.
Bourne played 57% of the snaps against Cincinnati, which was tied for his fifth most in a game this season. His nine targets in the passing game were by far his most of the season. He had six catches for 100 yards and a touchdown, his first touchdown all season and the first 100 yard receiving game of his career. His 32-yard catch early in the fourth quarter was his best of the season and one of the best throws Mac Jones has had all year.
Kendrick Bourne wasn’t going to be denied. Even in triple coverage.
— Tyler Milliken ⚾️ (@tylermilliken_) December 24, 2022
In addition to his work in the passing game, Bourne also had one carry for 29 yards. It was not a coincidence that getting Bourne more involved, specifically in the passing game in the second half, led to the Patriots having their best drive of the day early in the fourth quarter.
The New England offense has been anemic for most of the season. It is likely the offense will continue to underwhelm until coaching and offensive line upgrades are made in the offseason. However, the Patriots offense can still be better than it has been and continuing to have Bourne heavily involved is an obvious solution.