The New England Patriots have made short work of opponents so far this season and the Foxboro franchise kept alive hopes of an unbeaten campaign with a 27-10 win over Washington at the weekend.
But, if the reigning Super Bowl champions are to repeat a feat achieved only once before in franchise history (in 2007), they are going to have to do it without one of 2015's brightest stars.
Losing Lewis
That's after Boston Globe reporter Jim McBride confirmed today that Dion Lewis, the team's electric running back, has been ruled out for the rest of the season.
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Lewis' status was in doubt after he left Sunday's game against the Redskins with a knee injury, and McBride's update confirms the team's worst fears.
The RB, after three years of NFL irrelevance, has been a revelation through the first nine weeks of the season racking up 234 yards and two touchdowns on the ground, as well a further 388 yards and two TDs receiving.
In fact, his pass-catching ability has been on of the key elements of a red-hot Patriots offense. He was third on the team in terms of receptions.
Now, though, as with Le'Veon Bell, Jamaal Charles and Arian Foster, Lewis has become the latest starting running back to be consigned to the sideline through injury.
Reaction
Patriots fans have been quick to take to Twitter to respond to the news:
And fantasy football team owners across the country have taken the news just as badly...
With Lewis done for the year, New England is likely to ride LeGarrette Blount from here on out, with Brandon Bolden also expected to see extra work.
Patriots fans: Can your team still go unbeaten without Lewis? Have your say in the comments below...
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