Elandon Roberts with an EPIC line about his physicality
By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
Elandon Roberts is nothing if not physical, hard-working, and selfless. It’s a big reason why the Patriots team captain has worked his way into a regular role at … fullback, despite primarily being a linebacker.
But he doesn’t care what side of the ball he’s on, he’s going to be motivated to just absolutely plow through the guy on the other side. Think the Bills know what he’s all about now?
“I think they knew what I was about my rookie year. I’ll run through a motherf***er’s face,” said Roberts after the game. “Offense, defense, special teams, whatever you want. I think that’s why Bill [Belichick] likes me.”
Roberts lined up for a season-high 21 snaps at fullback in Sunday’s 24-17 win over the Bills, and the Patriots gained 5.25 yards per play with him on the field. Three of those plays were play-action passes. Tom Brady went 3-for-3 for 30 yards and a touchdown to tight end Matt LaCosse on those snaps.
Despite his improved blocking as a fullback, Roberts still prefers hitting people on defense. It’s louder and he gets the glory.
“When you’re blocking people, they don’t even say ‘ooh’, they look at Sony [Michel] running through the hole. When I hit a motherf***er on defense, sh*t is violent,” Roberts said.
Roberts is physical and productive on both sides of the ball now. So of course Belichick is going to like him.
“You know, he started off with a couple plays and built that up a little bit,” said Belichick. “He’s done a good job with the opportunity he’s had in there. So, we’ve been able to expand it a little bit. He’s done a solid job for us. He’s another tough, physical player that’s good to have on the field in those situations.”
The Patriots offense looked as cohesive, physical, and explosive as it has all season. Roberts was as big a piece to that success as he’s been since taking snaps at fullback. Hopefully this is just the start of him running through motherf***ers’ faces.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.
