The New England Patriots will be without a key offensive lineman this Sunday as they face the Las Vegas Raiders at home in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Starting center David Andrews, a former Georgia Bulldog, is listed as out ahead the game.
New England, which is 1-1, nearly pulled off an improbable comeback against the Seattle Seahawks last week. Their comeback effort was partially due to their offensive line, who played excellent in defeat.
In fact, Cam Newton was sacked only once in 44 pass attempts at Seattle. The Patriot line consistently gave Newton time to throw deep despite being in numerous obvious passing situations.
The Raiders don’t feature a particularly intimidating pass rusher either. Las Vegas only has one sack on the season.
David Andrews, per Fox’s Jay Glazer, has a broken thumb and has had surgery to correct the issue. He broke his thumb on his snapping hand, so he’ll have to either learn to snap with the other hand or sit out several more contests.
Andrews missed the 2019 season with blood clots in his lungs. He may look to return following New England’s bye week, which is Oct. 19. Andrews helps New England’s offensive line stay cohesive as a unit, so his presence will be missed this week and possibly next week against Kansas City.
Former Arkansas Razorback Hjalte Froholdt is the Patriots’ backup center.
Big hit for Patriots and Cam as starting center David Andrews broke thumb on his snapping hand and actually had surgery on it this week. Trying to snap with other hand but likely out this week and potentially more @NFLonFOX
— Jay Glazer (@JayGlazer) September 25, 2020
