New England Patriots: 5 Things to Watch in Matchup Against Jacksonville Jaguars

#3 Slowing Leonard Fournette

The only two things that slowed down Leonard Fournette at LSU were Alabama and an ankle injury. Will he continue to dominate in the NFL? Coaches across the league will look to the Patriots to provide the blueprint to slowing down the fourth-overall pick.

When predicting Fournette’s future success, a lot will depend on the ability of quarterback Blake Bortles to create a balanced offense. Bortles has struggled throughout his career, but will Belichick, who is notorious for his ability to shut down the opponent’s top offensive weapon, stack the box against a rookie in his first preseason game? When Stephon Gilmore and Malcolm Butler are the cornerbacks, there’s no reason to think otherwise.

A lot is expected out of Gilmore and Butler this season, so Belichick would be wise to test them early. The Jaguars possess a respectable group of wide receivers, so stacking the box and leaving the corners on an island would be a great way to prepare them for the regular season.

Don’t be surprised to see eight defenders in the box early on with Gilmore and Butler on the outside and Devin McCourty or Duron Harmon over the top.