Is Jonas Gray for Real?

Do you think Jonas Gray is for real or was Sunday just the game of his life?

Raj: I still think that last Sunday was the game of his life. But at the same time, this Sunday helped prove that he is here to play. From being a solely-practice squad running back, Gray showed he can be a starter. He doesn’t need to score 4 TDs and rush for 200+ yards every game (not that I would mind if he did that, though..). But if he runs for big gains and makes a difference like how Murray and Charles do in Dallas and Kansas City (respectively), then we can consider Gray to be for real. If not, the Patriots aren’t doomed at running back because they got back Blount. But I have faith in Gray so, everything will be good!

Rick: That was a great performance by Jonas Gray on Sunday night, but to me, it’s tough to expect that from him every week. The Colts were not a good run defense and the Patriots knew that from their matchup against them in the AFC Divisional Playoffs last season when LeGarrette Blount had four touchdowns. Gray is a good serviceable back who can run north-to-south and be able to pick up yards after contact. However, the Patriots could still use a more balanced rushing attack with Gray and Shane Vereen, depending on the matchup. One thing the Patriots do very well is adjust their game plan from week-to-week. While I do think Gray will be a good player for New England the rest of the way, it’s tough to expect 199 yards and four touchdowns from him every single week.

Derek: I have little doubt that was the game of his life.  If he beats a four touchdown, 201 yard performance, then more power to him.  That being said, I think Jonas has flashed a lot of potential on Sunday Night.  This wasn’t a 201 yard game that was inflated by one massive 80 or 90 yard run.  Gray earned those yards by chewing up some significant chunks of yards every time he touched the ball.  He didn’t have a single tackle for a loss.  He proved that he can handle a heavy work load, run hard, and run smart.  It may just have been the best performance by a Patriots running back that I’ve ever seen.