Brand new The uk Patriots playoff review: Aaron Hernandez employed as a runner, OK following big strike

FOXBOROUGH, Mass.-- The Patriots unveiled a new offensive wrinkle on Saturday, using tight end Aaron Hernandez as a running back.
The results were impressive, as the second-year star ripped off a nasty 43-yard run around left end to lead to the Patriots first score.
Yet it ended in near-disaster.
On a two-yard run down by the goal line late in the game, Hernandez was popped by middle linebacker Joe Mays. He wobbled and wobbled, needing to be helped to the sideline by teammates. Hernandez did walk off, finishing his night wit 61 rushing yards and 55 receiving yards.

But on the sidelines, they administered the concussions tests to him.
Afterwards, in the locker room, Hernandez seemed OK. He said he’ll “be ready, baby” next week and claimed he’s “all right.”
Perhaps the Patriots dodged a bullet. Their use of two tight ends is their best weapon, and pairing Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski (145 yards, three scores) makes them lethal.
If Hernandez couldn’t go in the AFC title game, the Patriots would use a receiver in his place, as he’s mostly split out wide, anyway. But receivers aren’t as big or strong as him. That would negate some of the matchup problem. Still, the way he sounded, perhaps the Patriots won’t have any such worries.