The Patriots 27-13 victory against the Jets featured the return of Rob Gronkowski. The All-Pro tight end found the end zone for the first time since Week 1, and he was instrumental in the success of the ground game as Sony Michel racked up 133 yards rushing.
ESPN.com says Gronkowski is back to being himself, catching TDs and having fun. The Boston Globe writes about Gronk’s personal block party on Sunday.
The Globe points to the fact that the Patriots benefit greatly from having the pushovers in the AFC East to knock around. Despite the win, the Boston Herald says the road to a first-round bye is still not easy. Bill Belichick was not happy with the rash of penalties in the victory. The Herald also offers a report card from Sunday’s game.
The Patriots activated Rex Burkhead off IR. The Athletic says some of the Patriots most reliable players returned to their reliable ways against the Jets. If the Patriots want to continue with the ground-and-pound approach they used Sunday NBC Sports Boston believes some things will need to change. After injuring his knee against Tennessee, Tom Brady hopes he's turned a corner.
Boston Sports Journal offers some leftovers from the Jets win. MassLive.com looks at the Patriots evolving offense. WEEI.com looks at the Patriots debut of Obi Melifonwu.
In Minnesota, the StarTribune says the Vikings ability to mix and match in the running game has helped the offense. Vikings coach Mike Zimmer says cornerback Xavier Rhodes' hamstring injury isn’t serious despite what the TV doctors have said.
