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The New England Patriots were able to escape in Week 1 of the 2013 NFL regular season, defeating the Buffalo Bills, 23-21, thanks to a field goal in the final seconds. However, with the win comes some huge losses to the Patriots offensive attack.
According to Pro Football Talk, the Patriots will be without running back Shane Vereen for more than a few weeks. Vereen was placed on injured reserve and is expected to return by Week 11.
Vereen is a huge loss for the Pats offense, as he had 159 yards total from scrimmage. Out of those 159 combined yards, he had 101 yards rushing on the ground. Now with him gone, the Pats will point back to Stevan Ridley to carry most of the load. In addition, New England brought back tight end Matthew Mulligan.
Not only is the rushing attack depleted, but the passing attack will also be affected.
Wide receiver Danny Amendola is also injured. Amendola was listed as a limited participant in practice so far this week. Amendola is expected to be listed as "50-50" under the questionable label on Wednesday, the day before New England will face off the New York Jets on Thursday Night Football on NFL Network.
Injuries will be a big part of what will affect the Patriots success this season. This could be quarterback Tom Brady's toughest NFL season yet.
