Relationships Talk

Dating back to last week, Michel has participated in the Patriots’ three most recent practices and figures to be a go for Friday’s wrap-up walkthrough. He was a weekly must-start before going down with an MCL sprain at Chicago in Week 7. Since then, New England’s offense has learned it needs the rookie runner more than it anticipated, scoring only 24 offensive points against the Bears and just 18 versus the Bills.

Against Green Bay’s 24th-ranked run defense by DVOA, Michel should feast.

New England has allowed the sixth-most points to opposing tight ends this season. Athletic tight ends, like Graham, have looked indefensible playing against the Pats.

Colts TE Eric Ebron notched his first 100-yard receiving game in Week 5 and scored two touchdowns.

Kansas City’s Travis Kelce had five catches and 60-plus yards at halftime of Week 6 before getting double-teamed  the rest of the way.

Chicago’s Trey Burton amassed just three catches for 18 yards last week. But the Sunday prior against New England? Try nine for 126 and a touchdown.

Graham is the easiest start among Packers this weekend.  

Right after Graham for best Green Bay starting option is running back Aaron Jones. The second-year runner has proven to be far and away the Packers’ most talented rushing option. He’s averaging 6.2 yards per carry.

And with Ty Montgomery shipped to Baltimore on Tuesday, his volume should soar. Expect to see plenty of Jones Sunday.