Week 9 Patriots vs Washington Fantasy Recap: Buy Low?

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The New England Patriots had a really quiet day from a fantasy perspective due to the injuries to the offensive line and running back Dion Lewis. The Patriots playbook was effectively closed once the team had to put interior lineman Bryan Stork at right tackle since the team couldn't really rely on much time in the pocket, or develop many complicated rushing combinations.

It was an anomaly, but it still stinks.

Tom Brady ranked as the 12th quarterback on the week and posted his lowest week on the year. He was one yard away from many league's 300-yard bonus and his interception dropped him a slot, too.

Running back LeGarrette Blount had a good day in an expanded role, collecting 129 yards and a touchdown and ranking 7th in the league. Brandon Bolden had nearly the same exact production as Shane Vereen, with 12 rushing yards, 27 receiving yards, and a touchdown (Vereen posted 14 rushing yards, 29 receiving yards, and a touchdown). I would not recommend any of the Patriots running backs other than Blount from a fantasy perspective for the rest of the year.

Wide receivers Brandon LaFell (5 receptions, 102 yards) and Julian Edelman (5 receptions, 55 yards, 1 touchdown) weren't worth playing as more than a flex in fantasy, but hopefully they'll rebound in the upcoming weeks as the offensive line regains its shape. Also, feel free to count LaFell as back, but don't count on him to be more than a boom-bust flex player for the rest of the year.

Tight end Rob Gronkowski was held out of the end zone and his 4 receptions for 47 yards rank him 20th on the week. He was behind players like Michael Hoomanawanui, who posted a 1 catch for 1 yard and a touchdown statline. This is the time to buy LOW on Gronkowski before the fantasy playoff push because I doubt he'll ever be cheaper.

The Patriots defense ranked third on the week and Stephen Gostkowski remained his reliable self with two field goals and three extra points. This was actually the kicker's second worst week on the season from a fantasy perspective, which just shows how good he is compared to the rest of the league.