Amendola's Emergence Changes Patriots Offense
Matt LaPan, GoLocal Sports Reporter
Amendola's Emergence Changes Patriots Offense
While many still think of Amendola as a bad signing and a less than stellar replacement for Wes Welker, his on-field play has finally started to flourish. Amendola is also making contributions on special teams for the Patriots. Amendola might never be what many expected him to be, but his new role in the offense is changing the way teams have to defend the Patriots.
Late Season Breakthrough
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTThrough the first 14 games of the Patriots season Danny Amendola had hauled in just 15 passes. Averaging just over one catch per game, he had become an afterthought in the Patriots offense. In Week 16, however, Amendola was pressed into service as Julian Edelman was inactive due to multiple injuries. On that week, Amendola saw his chance and took it.
The Patriots narrowly escaped with a 17-16 win over the New York Jets, but Amendola broke through. Amendola was target 11 times on the day, a season high. He also brought in a season-high eight receptions for a season-high 63 yards. While Amendola did not find the end zone, he did convert a key 3rd down conversion on the Patriots’ final drive which helped New England Run out the clock.
The next week against Buffalo saw Julian Edelman inactive again. It also saw Amendola step into his role and play well. Amendola brought in four passes on seven targets. Although the numbers were not’t gaudy, Amendola was a bright spot in an otherwise terrible offensive performance.
Playoff Success
These games helped prepare Amendola for the AFC Divisional Round against the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens decided to use their resources to cover Julian Edelman and Rob Gronkowski, leaving Amendola in one-on-one coverage against multiple defenders who were not equipped to stop him in the slot. Amendola was targeted six times and caught five passes for a season-high 81 yards and two touchdowns. The 16.1 yards per catch average was among the best on the season for Amendola.
He was also used on the top play of the night, a double pass touchdown from Julian Edelman. Amendola streaked past the Baltimore defense for a 51-yard touchdown, completely changing the complexion of the game.
While it is true that Amendola is no Wes Welker, in his prime, he is an important part of the gameplay for the AFC Championship game. The recent string of success means that the Colts must game plan to cover Amendola. This means less attention is brought on Julian Edelman and Brandon LaFell. It also means that the Colts will need to bring an extra defensive back on the field to cover Amendola.
With an extra defensive back on the field, the Patriots can exploit the true weakness of the Colts, the rush defense. By adding a smaller body into the mix, the Patriots can exploit the run defense that allowed 201 yards and four touchdowns to Jonas Gray earlier this season. This, in turn, keeps Tom Brady upright and opens up the play-action game — where Brady is at his best.
Although Danny Amendola will never be the featured pass catcher in the Patriots offense, a role that belongs to Rob Gronkowski, his increased role is vital to the success of the Patriots. If Amendola can draw coverage away from others, and help open space for the run game, he will likely find himself with a trip to Arizona for Super Bowl XLIX.
Best Spots to Watch the Game
The Arena Sports Bar and Grill, Cranston
Sports fans in western Cranston look to the Arena for everything from the big game to their big event. And for good reason: the Arena calls all the right plays. From food to atmosphere to entertainment, this is one of our faves. The kitchen is open 7 days a week until 11 pm, so you will never be without a wing at that big moment in the game. And what comes out of that kitchen is classic sports bar fare done right. NFL fans, every game day they offer thirty five cent wings and a cheese pizza and a pitcher of beer for $13. You really can't go wrong there! 641 Atwood Ave. 369-7100, www.thearenari.com
Snookers, Providence
This spot is all about the giant television, the retro-hip architecture and the crave-worthy bar food. Oh yeah...and pool if the game stinks! There are screens all over the joint, so missing a play isn't an issue. The kitchen has you covered, too. Pizzas, sandwiches and wraps tempt along with fun appetizers. The sweet chile calamari and the fried pickles are both very good. Don't forget the entrees either. The black and tan fish and chips were some of the best we've had outside of an Irish pub. http://www.snookersri.com
The Whiskey Republic, Providence
This is Patriots fan heaven. Imagine a couple dozen televisions, creative pub food and a waterfront view that makes those early season games pretty spectacular. The Pats always get top billing and the 120-inch projection screen. Also key here is the fact that the volume is up on the Pats game. We always fear missing timely information from the announcers but not at the Whiskey. Food-wise, every game day the menu is vast and features special $1 sliders and some of the best bar grub going. And god forbid the home team loses, there are around 50 whiskeys and bourbons for you to drown your sorrows. 515 South Water St. 588-5158,www.thewhiskeyrepublic.com
Doherty's Ale House, Warwick
The big boy of the Doherty's chain seems to have hit its stride. The food and service have caught up to the size of the newest location in the group. Located high on the hill just off I-95 on Jefferson Boulevard, this location features dark woods and beer taps as far as the eye can see. The food is more upscale than some of their other locales and the menu incorporates beer into more dishes. Check the Harpoon IPA pretzels or the Philly eggrolls for good game-time apps.
30 Jefferson Blvd. 401-270-9800,www.dohertysalehouse.com
Bobby G's, Wakefield
As the campus at URI begins to fill, so do the seats at Bobby G's, in Wakefield. Centrally located between campus and Narragansett, this is the perfect perch for people- and game-watching. We think you should plant yourself at the bar and enjoy an icy cold beer and some wings or nachos. The food is freshly prepared and always hits the right notes. We haven't tried one yet but the Tidal Wave is the drink of choice. 703 Kingston Rd. 789-1130
