It was a dominating performance by the Pats on the final ABC Monday Night game ever. Who cares? The games are going to be on ESPN instead, what's the big deal anyway? The Pats dominated from start to finish with the exception of one poor Brady TD pass to Ty Law. When you hold an NFL team to no 1st downs in an entire half and run 31 straight Offensive snaps, I don't care who you're playing against, that is total domination. As a result of the game, two major questions are now on everyone's mind. What is Bruschi's status for the playoffs and are the Pats better off as the 3 seed or 4?
While slightly more info will be available later today when the official injury report comes out, it appears that Brushi has torn his calf muscle. My guess is the Pats injury report will list Brushi as "Questionable - Leg". Needless to say, the huge strides that this D has made are a direct reflection of Bruschi being on the field. Not just his playing ability, but his ability to read the O and call the appropriate D. Without him in the middle the Pats might be looking at one and done.
So are the Patriots better off as the #3 or #4 seed? What do YOU think?
Some will argue that you should always try to win and get the highest seed possible because there is a greater chance of getting a second home game and finish on a roll with another win.
I'll tell you why the Pats are much better off as the #4 seed. As the #4 the first round opponent will be Jax. Florida team, January and 7 degrees with snow flurries in Foxboro. Jax may have to play the backup QB Garrard. Or Jax starts Leftwich, who hasn't started a game in 5 weeks. Yes their D is very good, but the Pats O has demonstrated over the past two games that it can score any way that it has to against a particular D. (v. TB they spread it out, 4-5 wideouts, empty backfields, single back sets and scored 28 pts. v. Jets they ran the ball 50 times in 3 TE sets and Ashworth as a fullback to score 31 pts.)
As the #3 they will likely face the second hottest team in the NFL right now, Pitt. I'll take Jax, thank you.
Once the Pats finish off the Jags, it'll be on to Indy (assuming the higher seeds win). What better time to face Indy than as their first real game in what will be 5 weeks? (L to SD, L to Seattle, not starters playing this week, then a bye week) and add in the emotion invovled with the Dungy thing, I'd say you'd want to be the first team to face Indy in the playoffs because that's when they'll be most vulnerable.
If you have to go to Denver after that so be it, but at that point we could at least say the Pats are the reason why Peyton P*ssy is once again sitting at home for the Super Bowl.
Right now, AT Denver looks a lot more difficult than AT Indy, so to 3 or not to 3? I say let the starters play one quarter then put the subs in or at least Matt Cassell and lose the game. Play for the 4th seed Bill!
For those that don't know the possibilities:
If the Pats win and Cincy loses to KC, the Pats are the #3 seed.
If Pats lose, they are #4 no matter what Cincy does.
If Pats win and Cincy beats KC, Pats are #4.
KC NEEDS to win and Pitt to lose in order to make the playoffs, so they'll be playing desperate football.
However, if YOU are Cincy, don't you rest your players and lose, hope that Pats win and so you can grab the 4th seed to play Jax, rather than division rival Pitt?
It's the most wonderful time of the year!!!!!
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
Friday, December 23, 2005
What a Shame
Our thoughts are with Tony Dungy and his family. Though a despised enemy of Patriots nation on the field, we never want to see anyone have to cope with the loss of a child. God Bless.
Just a reminder sports fans, the majority of NFL games are on Saturday this week. The Sunday schedule sucks and then the Pats v. Jets will be Monday night.
Merry Christmas from Patriots Report.
Just a reminder sports fans, the majority of NFL games are on Saturday this week. The Sunday schedule sucks and then the Pats v. Jets will be Monday night.
Merry Christmas from Patriots Report.
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
It's Better all the Time
Great job commenting on Sunday's game Krager and mrbandw, I couldn't have put it any better myself. The Pats have certainly given us reason to believe that they might actually win a 3rd superbowl in a row. Of course I say that with gaurded optimism. It could be easy to discount the Bucs in Sunday's game because 1- it was their 3rd road game in a row 2- the franchise historically plays poor in the cold 3-Gruden was outcoached bya long shot 4-they play in the NFC. The NFC competition is pathetic. Does anyone doubt that the team that wins the AFC will be favored in and probably win the SB?
The Pats and Bengals playing well and the Indy loss to me just signifies that it's any team's conference to win. BUT there is no clear cut favorite because there are no 'test' games for these teams until the actual playoffs begin. That being said, who would you rather have coaching in the playoffs than Belichick? Who would you rather have at QB than Brady? How much more playoff experience does this team have over say, Cincy? SD? Denver? KC? It seems that, though vulnerable, the Pats have a lot going for them heading into these playoffs. The Pats could still end up as high as 3rd seed if Cincy loses it's final 2 and Pats win final 2. I'd rather be 4th and host J'ville than 3rd and host SD or Pitt or KC.
Here's the Stats:
Category Pats at 4-4 Pats Now
Rush yds allowed 128.9 (27th) 99.4 (6th)
Point allowed 27.5 (30th) 20.6 (19th)
3rd down O 35.6% (22nd) 41.8% (7th)
35+ pass plays 10 in 8 gms 5 in 6 gms
Red zone D 19TDs in 28 trips 5TD's in 15 trips
TOM BRADY
"They (the Pats) have the best QB in the league." -John Gruden
"That QB (Brady) is unbelievable. That throw he made on the 3rd play of the game, I mean, I don't know who makes that throw. An absolute perfect throw." - Monte Kiffin, Bucs D coordinator.
Peter King in Monday Morning QB talking about the same throw and the one before half where Brady got face masked and still completed the pass to Dwight, "Now, let's say 90% of the passers in football are playing the bucs on this day. I say the vast majority of the QB's in football have their team up 3-0 at the 2 inute warning. Not New England. Not with Brady. New England, 14-0." And further, "...it's a tribute to his consistent greatness that a 65%, 258 yd, 3 TD, no pick performance against the NFL's #2 Defense was barely discussed after the game."
Ronde Barber, Bucs CB after the game on Tom Brady:
"What we saw today, was a living legend."
You gotta figure, as long as he's playing, the Pats have a shot a the three-peat.
The Pats and Bengals playing well and the Indy loss to me just signifies that it's any team's conference to win. BUT there is no clear cut favorite because there are no 'test' games for these teams until the actual playoffs begin. That being said, who would you rather have coaching in the playoffs than Belichick? Who would you rather have at QB than Brady? How much more playoff experience does this team have over say, Cincy? SD? Denver? KC? It seems that, though vulnerable, the Pats have a lot going for them heading into these playoffs. The Pats could still end up as high as 3rd seed if Cincy loses it's final 2 and Pats win final 2. I'd rather be 4th and host J'ville than 3rd and host SD or Pitt or KC.
Here's the Stats:
Category Pats at 4-4 Pats Now
Rush yds allowed 128.9 (27th) 99.4 (6th)
Point allowed 27.5 (30th) 20.6 (19th)
3rd down O 35.6% (22nd) 41.8% (7th)
35+ pass plays 10 in 8 gms 5 in 6 gms
Red zone D 19TDs in 28 trips 5TD's in 15 trips
TOM BRADY
"They (the Pats) have the best QB in the league." -John Gruden
"That QB (Brady) is unbelievable. That throw he made on the 3rd play of the game, I mean, I don't know who makes that throw. An absolute perfect throw." - Monte Kiffin, Bucs D coordinator.
Peter King in Monday Morning QB talking about the same throw and the one before half where Brady got face masked and still completed the pass to Dwight, "Now, let's say 90% of the passers in football are playing the bucs on this day. I say the vast majority of the QB's in football have their team up 3-0 at the 2 inute warning. Not New England. Not with Brady. New England, 14-0." And further, "...it's a tribute to his consistent greatness that a 65%, 258 yd, 3 TD, no pick performance against the NFL's #2 Defense was barely discussed after the game."
Ronde Barber, Bucs CB after the game on Tom Brady:
"What we saw today, was a living legend."
You gotta figure, as long as he's playing, the Pats have a shot a the three-peat.
Friday, December 16, 2005
Pats V. Tampa Bay
This is shaping up to be quite a match-up. In fairness to the Pats in regards to my last post, the weather for Saturday is sunny and 40 degrees. That means a level playing field. As a Pats fan, you had to have been hoping for 20 degrees and snow. Tampa has never won a regular season game under 35 degrees and their starting RB, "Cadillac" Williams has NEVER even seen snow. A win for the Pats would be a good win. If they aren't victorious it will leave us all felling the same way we did after KC 3 weeks ago, that they just aren't good enough to beat a good team - and TB is a good team. AND don't worry, Brady will play. He's been running without a noticeable limp in practice. That will make 76 straight starts for the team MVP and future President of the United States.
Defensively, TB is #2 overall but what's really impressive is that they are top five v. both the run and the pass. (#5 and #4 respectively) Not surprisingly, the Tampa D is 7th on third down, holding opponents to just 34% of conversions.
The "Tampa 2" defense is their base defense, which means they usually have two deep safeties in pass coverage with an agressive one-gap D-Line featuring Chris Hovan and Simeon Rice. The conventional wisdom is that the way to beat the "Tampa 2" is to throw to the TE over the middle, between the two safeties.
To run v. the one-gap the O Line will do a lot of letting the DLine through only to be whacked by the TE pulling into the middle. Obviously, the Pats will need BIG games from Watson and Graham both blocking and catching the ball. They are both listed as questionable and if they can't go the Pat's may be in trouble.
Offensively, Gruden is known to attack the D's weakness over and over again. The way that Belichick described it was, and I'm paraphrasing: "Shanahan (denver) does a good job of sticking the knife in where your D is weakest, but Gruden sticks the knife in and twists it around a few times until it really hurts."
In the past Gruden has done this by using lots of motion to create mismatches and favorable matchups. However, TB has been much more vanilla since Simms took over and stays in a lot of max protect formations. In TB's 3 losses with Simms, he has been sacked 15 times. In their 4 wins he's been sacked 3 times. Expected Belichick to throw lot's of different looks at Simms. Zone coverage, man coverage, blitzes, fake blitzes, zone blitzes, you name it. Belichick will try to take advantage of Gruden's young QB and the vanilla O.
It's interesting that since Gruden's arrival in TB he and Belichick have developed quite a relationship. It's only going to grow since Belichick's former X and O buddy was Nick Saban, now the coach of the Dolphins. You can bet that Belichick's not talking X's and O's with him anymore.
Tampa Bay is the last team in the NFL that Brady hasn't started against.
The Pats haven't beaten TB since 1988.
The Pats are 43-7 after Nov 1 since 2001.
The Pats set a franchise record with 32 1st downs last week.
Tom Brady is 19-0 when the game time temp is under 40 degrees.
Deion Branch needs one TD catch to set a new career high of FIVE.
(Superbowl MVP my ass. Who threw him the ball?)
The Pats are now #9 in the ESPN power rankings playing against #5 TB. Why then, ESPN analysts, are the Pats favored by 5 points if TB is so much better?
Defensively, TB is #2 overall but what's really impressive is that they are top five v. both the run and the pass. (#5 and #4 respectively) Not surprisingly, the Tampa D is 7th on third down, holding opponents to just 34% of conversions.
The "Tampa 2" defense is their base defense, which means they usually have two deep safeties in pass coverage with an agressive one-gap D-Line featuring Chris Hovan and Simeon Rice. The conventional wisdom is that the way to beat the "Tampa 2" is to throw to the TE over the middle, between the two safeties.
To run v. the one-gap the O Line will do a lot of letting the DLine through only to be whacked by the TE pulling into the middle. Obviously, the Pats will need BIG games from Watson and Graham both blocking and catching the ball. They are both listed as questionable and if they can't go the Pat's may be in trouble.
Offensively, Gruden is known to attack the D's weakness over and over again. The way that Belichick described it was, and I'm paraphrasing: "Shanahan (denver) does a good job of sticking the knife in where your D is weakest, but Gruden sticks the knife in and twists it around a few times until it really hurts."
In the past Gruden has done this by using lots of motion to create mismatches and favorable matchups. However, TB has been much more vanilla since Simms took over and stays in a lot of max protect formations. In TB's 3 losses with Simms, he has been sacked 15 times. In their 4 wins he's been sacked 3 times. Expected Belichick to throw lot's of different looks at Simms. Zone coverage, man coverage, blitzes, fake blitzes, zone blitzes, you name it. Belichick will try to take advantage of Gruden's young QB and the vanilla O.
It's interesting that since Gruden's arrival in TB he and Belichick have developed quite a relationship. It's only going to grow since Belichick's former X and O buddy was Nick Saban, now the coach of the Dolphins. You can bet that Belichick's not talking X's and O's with him anymore.
Tampa Bay is the last team in the NFL that Brady hasn't started against.
The Pats haven't beaten TB since 1988.
The Pats are 43-7 after Nov 1 since 2001.
The Pats set a franchise record with 32 1st downs last week.
Tom Brady is 19-0 when the game time temp is under 40 degrees.
Deion Branch needs one TD catch to set a new career high of FIVE.
(Superbowl MVP my ass. Who threw him the ball?)
The Pats are now #9 in the ESPN power rankings playing against #5 TB. Why then, ESPN analysts, are the Pats favored by 5 points if TB is so much better?
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Laughable or Plausible?
The confidence in this Patriots team seams to be at an all time high in the print media, the broadcast media and of course in the talk show callers. Suddenly the secondary has come together and we're putting pressure on the quarterbacks and we're shutting down the run, Faulk & Dillon are back and the offense has been awesome. The Pats look like a DYNASTY again. Enough already.
If you name the 5 worst teams in football you'd probably include Buffalo and the J.E.T.S. jets jets jets. I would just like to remind everyone that the patriots beat the Bills and Jets over this 'marvelous' run of 2 wins in a row that the Pats are on. The Bills have packed it in, and the Jets might have the worst O in football.
That being said, Belichick is FINALLY letting the boys lose on Defense. They are running stunts and 5,6,or 7 man blitzes. They've caused turnovers! It remains to be seen if the turnovers are a result of the blitz or the way poor teams react to the blitz.
I'm just trying to get everyone back to reality here. The Pats are still 2-5 v. teams with a record north of .500. This weeks game would prove a little bit more that the Pats are for real, however keep in mind that Tampa Bay has NEVER won a game in tempuratures below 35 degrees. So a blow out win still won't convince me. In fact the Pats probably won't really be tested until the first round of the playoffs and even then we're looking at a Florida team trying to come up here and win in VERY wintery January conditions.
Some positive things that are happening that you should be excited about:
-Faulk is back and might have the best hands of any RB in the NFL
-Dillon is at least enough of a threat to run that play action works
-Rosie Colvin is REALLY coming back into form
-Seymour has been put in spots to be disruptive and he has been.
-Tom Brady is the best player in the NFL
-Tom Brady is the best player in the NFL
-Tom Brady is the best player in the NFL
-Brady and Belichick are undefeated together in the playoffs.
-As long as Tom Brady is around the Pats can win against anyone anywhere.
It is laughable to say that this team is back to dynasty form, but if it comes down to one game in Peyton's place, it is plausible the Pats win. I certainly wouldn't bet against the Pats in that game.
If you name the 5 worst teams in football you'd probably include Buffalo and the J.E.T.S. jets jets jets. I would just like to remind everyone that the patriots beat the Bills and Jets over this 'marvelous' run of 2 wins in a row that the Pats are on. The Bills have packed it in, and the Jets might have the worst O in football.
That being said, Belichick is FINALLY letting the boys lose on Defense. They are running stunts and 5,6,or 7 man blitzes. They've caused turnovers! It remains to be seen if the turnovers are a result of the blitz or the way poor teams react to the blitz.
I'm just trying to get everyone back to reality here. The Pats are still 2-5 v. teams with a record north of .500. This weeks game would prove a little bit more that the Pats are for real, however keep in mind that Tampa Bay has NEVER won a game in tempuratures below 35 degrees. So a blow out win still won't convince me. In fact the Pats probably won't really be tested until the first round of the playoffs and even then we're looking at a Florida team trying to come up here and win in VERY wintery January conditions.
Some positive things that are happening that you should be excited about:
-Faulk is back and might have the best hands of any RB in the NFL
-Dillon is at least enough of a threat to run that play action works
-Rosie Colvin is REALLY coming back into form
-Seymour has been put in spots to be disruptive and he has been.
-Tom Brady is the best player in the NFL
-Tom Brady is the best player in the NFL
-Tom Brady is the best player in the NFL
-Brady and Belichick are undefeated together in the playoffs.
-As long as Tom Brady is around the Pats can win against anyone anywhere.
It is laughable to say that this team is back to dynasty form, but if it comes down to one game in Peyton's place, it is plausible the Pats win. I certainly wouldn't bet against the Pats in that game.
Friday, December 09, 2005
I Finally Get to Post Again.....
Is once a week enough?
Great game by Tom Brady, bouncing back from his 4 INT fiasco. He was 27 of 37 but I remember numerous drops, he probably should have been 30 or 31 out of 37. I'm sure that doesn't matter to Brady as long as they got the win. Congrats to him also for being SI's sportsman of the year.
The most under-rated return from injury has to be that of Kevin Faulk. This guy is a difference maker. He caught 3 balls on 3rd down, all of which went for first downs. No other back has caught a 3rd down pass for a first down all season.
Seymour money isn't happy with the crowd noise at Gillette. Shut up and make a tackle, maybe the people will cheer. Seymour money had as many tackles v. the Jets as Peyton Manning has superbowl rings. ZERO. Oh and did you notice his facemask penalty that nulified a Pats takeaway? PLEASE Bill and Scott, trade him this off-season. I still think San Fran for two #1 picks is a nice deal for both teams.
Overall you'd have to give the D credit for holding Curtis, "Parcells is God" Martin to only 29 yds. I hope he comes up short of 1000 yds this season and breaks his string of 10 seasons in a row with 1000 yds. But don't get me started on Curtis.
Don't get too excited about the win over the Jets. They simply suck. I do hope they win one or two more games though. I don't like the thought of playing against Bush or Leinart or Young twice a year.
Let's take a look at the Heisman before moving on to this weeks game. I think everyone knows that Reggie Bush is going to win it. He is the most exciting player in the NCAA, no doubt about it. Here's my take on why The Heisman should go to Vince Young:
1. He's the only player on his team. If Bush has an off game, Leinart or Lindale White take up the slack. If Young runs for 20 or 25 yds and gets tackled, he's gotta get right back up and make the next play even if he's winded. Bush simply comes out for a breather.
2. Young has accounted for twice as many TD's as Bush.
3. Young hasn't played very much in the 2nd half of games because they've blown people out.
4. Leinart has no chance because they won't want to make him the 2nd person to win 2 Heisman trophy's.
5. Texas is 11-0.
Here's how they'll actually finish: 1 Bush, 2 Young, 3 Leinart.
Too bad.
The Bills Game
The Pats couldn't be getting the Bills at a better time, as they are a team in turmoil. Moulds is suspended for this game and reports say coach Mularky has lost his veterans in the locker room. They don't buy into his program anymore and that is NOT going to help them win on Sunday.
Pats practices this week have focused once again on third down conversions.
The Pats were 1 of 7 on 3rd down v. Buffalo the first time around. Overall they are 12th in the league at 39% on 3rd down. Buffalo's D is 29th by the way, allowing 42%. Maybe the Pats will actually string together some long drives!
The Patriots will clinch their division title this weekend by beating Buffalo if Miami loses to San Diego. Highly likely.
Here's what the AFC playoff picture will probably look like:
1 Indy
2 Denver
3 Cincy
4 Pats
5 Jacksonville
6 San Diego (or maybe Pitt or KC)
We couldn't ask for a better scenario. Pats would host Jacksonville. Florida team up here in 15 degree MA weather. Back up QB. I like our chances. A win would earn the Pats a trip to Indy unless SD beats Cincy which may happen.
The ideal is Pats win, SD wins, Pats go to Denver, SD to Indy. Pats win again and SD upsets Indy, we host SD for the AFC championship. Who would've thunk?
The most likely scenario is a trip to Peyton's place. A theory was brought out by a Patriots beat writer that the Pats are already preping for the showdown with Indy. They really haven't blitzed much 'cuz they don't want Manning to have any tape of their blitzes. That Belichick and Mangini are working on some different looks/blitz packages in practice, but not using them in games. Would it be the greatest thing if Pretty Peyton goes 16-0 and then loses to the 10-6 beaten up Pats in his first playoff game? One and done Pey-Ton!
That excites me almost as much as the thought of Miguel Tejada playing SS in Boston for the next 4 yrs! WOW!!!!!
The Pats are now #12 in the ESPN power rankings.
Great game by Tom Brady, bouncing back from his 4 INT fiasco. He was 27 of 37 but I remember numerous drops, he probably should have been 30 or 31 out of 37. I'm sure that doesn't matter to Brady as long as they got the win. Congrats to him also for being SI's sportsman of the year.
The most under-rated return from injury has to be that of Kevin Faulk. This guy is a difference maker. He caught 3 balls on 3rd down, all of which went for first downs. No other back has caught a 3rd down pass for a first down all season.
Seymour money isn't happy with the crowd noise at Gillette. Shut up and make a tackle, maybe the people will cheer. Seymour money had as many tackles v. the Jets as Peyton Manning has superbowl rings. ZERO. Oh and did you notice his facemask penalty that nulified a Pats takeaway? PLEASE Bill and Scott, trade him this off-season. I still think San Fran for two #1 picks is a nice deal for both teams.
Overall you'd have to give the D credit for holding Curtis, "Parcells is God" Martin to only 29 yds. I hope he comes up short of 1000 yds this season and breaks his string of 10 seasons in a row with 1000 yds. But don't get me started on Curtis.
Don't get too excited about the win over the Jets. They simply suck. I do hope they win one or two more games though. I don't like the thought of playing against Bush or Leinart or Young twice a year.
Let's take a look at the Heisman before moving on to this weeks game. I think everyone knows that Reggie Bush is going to win it. He is the most exciting player in the NCAA, no doubt about it. Here's my take on why The Heisman should go to Vince Young:
1. He's the only player on his team. If Bush has an off game, Leinart or Lindale White take up the slack. If Young runs for 20 or 25 yds and gets tackled, he's gotta get right back up and make the next play even if he's winded. Bush simply comes out for a breather.
2. Young has accounted for twice as many TD's as Bush.
3. Young hasn't played very much in the 2nd half of games because they've blown people out.
4. Leinart has no chance because they won't want to make him the 2nd person to win 2 Heisman trophy's.
5. Texas is 11-0.
Here's how they'll actually finish: 1 Bush, 2 Young, 3 Leinart.
Too bad.
The Bills Game
The Pats couldn't be getting the Bills at a better time, as they are a team in turmoil. Moulds is suspended for this game and reports say coach Mularky has lost his veterans in the locker room. They don't buy into his program anymore and that is NOT going to help them win on Sunday.
Pats practices this week have focused once again on third down conversions.
The Pats were 1 of 7 on 3rd down v. Buffalo the first time around. Overall they are 12th in the league at 39% on 3rd down. Buffalo's D is 29th by the way, allowing 42%. Maybe the Pats will actually string together some long drives!
The Patriots will clinch their division title this weekend by beating Buffalo if Miami loses to San Diego. Highly likely.
Here's what the AFC playoff picture will probably look like:
1 Indy
2 Denver
3 Cincy
4 Pats
5 Jacksonville
6 San Diego (or maybe Pitt or KC)
We couldn't ask for a better scenario. Pats would host Jacksonville. Florida team up here in 15 degree MA weather. Back up QB. I like our chances. A win would earn the Pats a trip to Indy unless SD beats Cincy which may happen.
The ideal is Pats win, SD wins, Pats go to Denver, SD to Indy. Pats win again and SD upsets Indy, we host SD for the AFC championship. Who would've thunk?
The most likely scenario is a trip to Peyton's place. A theory was brought out by a Patriots beat writer that the Pats are already preping for the showdown with Indy. They really haven't blitzed much 'cuz they don't want Manning to have any tape of their blitzes. That Belichick and Mangini are working on some different looks/blitz packages in practice, but not using them in games. Would it be the greatest thing if Pretty Peyton goes 16-0 and then loses to the 10-6 beaten up Pats in his first playoff game? One and done Pey-Ton!
That excites me almost as much as the thought of Miguel Tejada playing SS in Boston for the next 4 yrs! WOW!!!!!
The Pats are now #12 in the ESPN power rankings.
Friday, December 02, 2005
Where the Hell Have I Been?
For those of you (both of you) that simply can't get enough Patriots report, my apologies. Things have been hectic with the holidays and they are cracking down on internet use at work, so I haven't had much of an opportunity to post.
As bad as Tom Brady was in Kansas City, they were in contention and had one or two plays gone differently they could have won. Of course, that's what most Patriots opponents have been saying over the last two years, so that's not a good sign. What's also not a good sign is the fact the the Pats are 2-5 vs teams with a winning record. And what of the play calling vs the Chiefs! Charlie, this is my official apology to you for the last few years of hating your play calling as well as calling you Fat Weis. The Patriots elementary, conservative and predictable play calling was in full display last week. Here's how it goes: Besides during two minute offense, 85% of the time if they ran on 1st down they passed on 2nd down and if they passed on 1st down they ran on 2nd down. Genius. In addition to having no running game, Brady had 4 picks but his worst throws weren't even the interceptions. Do you remember a wide open Ben Watson in the endzone being overthrown by 10 yards? I'd still take him over any QB in the league and the Jets are forewarned. Brady's career best games have come following his 3 and 4 INT games. If you've got Tom on your fantasy team be sure to start him this week, unless you're playing against me.
Should we stop using the injuries as an excuse for this team? Wasn't the Patriots mantra during the 'dynasty' run of superbowls that they played right through injuries?
In '03 they started 42 different guys, went 14-2 and won the SB.
In '04 they started 40 different guys, went 14-2 and won the SB.
In '05 they've started 43 different players and are 6-5.
It has been suggested that poor coaching and poor play on the players part are the cause of the mediocre record. Undoubtably, Belichick misses Weis and Crennel. It's not that he couldn't run the O or the D, but it's just too much to ask for him to do BOTH. I don't think he has time to sleep. Another HUGE reason for the poor record is the horrible off-season of Pioli. We've been over this and I'm not going down that road again. Even though the number of starters is similar to '03 & '04, I think that it's which players they have lost to injury that are important. Light, Dillon, Faulk, Graham, Watson, Koppen, Brown, Givens on O. The whole damn secondary on D, Seymour, Green, Bruschi, and the Johnson retirement which they don't count in games lost to injury.
Speaking of injuries here's this week's list:
Brady - probable
Ashworth, Dillon, Faulk, Givens, Graham, Johnson, McGinest, Pass, Sanders, Stone all QUESTIONABLE.
Light - doubtful. There are rumors that he is done for the year.
The fact that Mike Cloud was released leads me to believe that Dillon and or Faulk will be playing this week v. the Jets.
In this weeks ESPN power rankings the Pats have slipped to 15. How bad is that? The Vikings are 16.
If you feel the way I do about Tom Brady, you may go to NFL.com and vote for him to make the pro-bowl. Even though he leads the league in several categories, he is 4th in AFC voting behind Manning, Palmer and Roethlesberger. Roethlesberger! Are you F*@#ing kidding me, 14 freakin passes a game! I could see if Brady was battling Brees, but this is rediculous.
My best efforts will be made to try to post as often as I can, so check back soon.
p.s. Good riddance to Joe Thornton, the Drew Bledsoe of the Bruins.
As bad as Tom Brady was in Kansas City, they were in contention and had one or two plays gone differently they could have won. Of course, that's what most Patriots opponents have been saying over the last two years, so that's not a good sign. What's also not a good sign is the fact the the Pats are 2-5 vs teams with a winning record. And what of the play calling vs the Chiefs! Charlie, this is my official apology to you for the last few years of hating your play calling as well as calling you Fat Weis. The Patriots elementary, conservative and predictable play calling was in full display last week. Here's how it goes: Besides during two minute offense, 85% of the time if they ran on 1st down they passed on 2nd down and if they passed on 1st down they ran on 2nd down. Genius. In addition to having no running game, Brady had 4 picks but his worst throws weren't even the interceptions. Do you remember a wide open Ben Watson in the endzone being overthrown by 10 yards? I'd still take him over any QB in the league and the Jets are forewarned. Brady's career best games have come following his 3 and 4 INT games. If you've got Tom on your fantasy team be sure to start him this week, unless you're playing against me.
Should we stop using the injuries as an excuse for this team? Wasn't the Patriots mantra during the 'dynasty' run of superbowls that they played right through injuries?
In '03 they started 42 different guys, went 14-2 and won the SB.
In '04 they started 40 different guys, went 14-2 and won the SB.
In '05 they've started 43 different players and are 6-5.
It has been suggested that poor coaching and poor play on the players part are the cause of the mediocre record. Undoubtably, Belichick misses Weis and Crennel. It's not that he couldn't run the O or the D, but it's just too much to ask for him to do BOTH. I don't think he has time to sleep. Another HUGE reason for the poor record is the horrible off-season of Pioli. We've been over this and I'm not going down that road again. Even though the number of starters is similar to '03 & '04, I think that it's which players they have lost to injury that are important. Light, Dillon, Faulk, Graham, Watson, Koppen, Brown, Givens on O. The whole damn secondary on D, Seymour, Green, Bruschi, and the Johnson retirement which they don't count in games lost to injury.
Speaking of injuries here's this week's list:
Brady - probable
Ashworth, Dillon, Faulk, Givens, Graham, Johnson, McGinest, Pass, Sanders, Stone all QUESTIONABLE.
Light - doubtful. There are rumors that he is done for the year.
The fact that Mike Cloud was released leads me to believe that Dillon and or Faulk will be playing this week v. the Jets.
In this weeks ESPN power rankings the Pats have slipped to 15. How bad is that? The Vikings are 16.
If you feel the way I do about Tom Brady, you may go to NFL.com and vote for him to make the pro-bowl. Even though he leads the league in several categories, he is 4th in AFC voting behind Manning, Palmer and Roethlesberger. Roethlesberger! Are you F*@#ing kidding me, 14 freakin passes a game! I could see if Brady was battling Brees, but this is rediculous.
My best efforts will be made to try to post as often as I can, so check back soon.
p.s. Good riddance to Joe Thornton, the Drew Bledsoe of the Bruins.
Where the Hell Have I Been?
For those of you (both of you) that simply can't get enough Patriots report, my apologies. Things have been hectic with the holidays and they are cracking down on internet use at work, so I haven't had much of an opportunity to post.
As bad as Tom Brady was in Kansas City, they were in contention and had one or two plays gone differently they could have won. Of course, that's what most Patriots opponents have been saying over the last two years, so that's not a good sign. What's also not a good sign is the fact the the Pats are 2-5 vs teams with a winning record. And what of the play calling vs the Chiefs! Charlie, this is my official apology to you for the last few years of hating your play calling as well as calling you Fat Weis. The Patriots elementary, conservative and predictable play calling was in full display last week. Here's how it goes: Besides during two minute offense, 85% of the time if they ran on 1st down they passed on 2nd down and if they passed on 1st down they ran on 2nd down. Genius. In addition to having no running game, Brady had 4 picks but his worst throws weren't even the interceptions. Do you remember a wide open Ben Watson in the endzone being overthrown by 10 yards? I'd still take him over any QB in the league and the Jets are forewarned. Brady's career best games have come following his 3 and 4 INT games. If you've got Tom on your fantasy team be sure to start him this week, unless you're playing against me.
Should we stop using the injuries as an excuse for this team? Wasn't the Patriots mantra during the 'dynasty' run of superbowls that they played right through injuries?
In '03 they started 42 different guys, went 14-2 and won the SB.
In '04 they started 40 different guys, went 14-2 and won the SB.
In '05 they've started 43 different players and are 6-5.
It has been suggested that poor coaching and poor play on the players part are the cause of the mediocre record. Undoubtably, Belichick misses Weis and Crennel. It's not that he couldn't run the O or the D, but it's just too much to ask for him to do BOTH. I don't think he has time to sleep. Another HUGE reason for the poor record is the horrible off-season of Pioli. We've been over this and I'm not going down that road again. Even though the number of starters is similar to '02 & '04, I think that it's which players they have lost to injury that are important. Light, Dillon, Faulk, Graham, Watson, Koppen, Brown, Givens on O. The whole damn secondary on D, Seymour, Green, Bruschi, and the Johnson retirement which they don't count in games lost to injury.
Speaking of injuries:
Brady - probable
Ashworth, Dillon, Faulk, Givens, Graham, Johnson, McGinest, Pass, Sanders, Stone all QUESTIONABLE.
Light - doubtful. There are rumors that he is done for the year.
The fact that Mike Cloud was released leads me to believe that Dillon and or Faulk will be playing this week v. the Jets.
In this weeks ESPN power rankings the Pats have slipped to 15. How bad is that? The Vikings are 16.
If you feel the way I do about Tom Brady, you may go to NFL.com and vote for him to make the pro-bowl. Even though he leads the league in several categories, he is 4th in AFC voting behind Manning, Palmer and Roethlesberger. Roethlesberger! Are you F*@#ing kidding me, 14 freakin passes a game! I could see if Brady was battling Brees, but this is rediculous.
My best efforts will be made to try to post as often as I can, so check back soon.
p.s. Good riddance to Joe Thornton, the Drew Bledsoe of the Bruins.
As bad as Tom Brady was in Kansas City, they were in contention and had one or two plays gone differently they could have won. Of course, that's what most Patriots opponents have been saying over the last two years, so that's not a good sign. What's also not a good sign is the fact the the Pats are 2-5 vs teams with a winning record. And what of the play calling vs the Chiefs! Charlie, this is my official apology to you for the last few years of hating your play calling as well as calling you Fat Weis. The Patriots elementary, conservative and predictable play calling was in full display last week. Here's how it goes: Besides during two minute offense, 85% of the time if they ran on 1st down they passed on 2nd down and if they passed on 1st down they ran on 2nd down. Genius. In addition to having no running game, Brady had 4 picks but his worst throws weren't even the interceptions. Do you remember a wide open Ben Watson in the endzone being overthrown by 10 yards? I'd still take him over any QB in the league and the Jets are forewarned. Brady's career best games have come following his 3 and 4 INT games. If you've got Tom on your fantasy team be sure to start him this week, unless you're playing against me.
Should we stop using the injuries as an excuse for this team? Wasn't the Patriots mantra during the 'dynasty' run of superbowls that they played right through injuries?
In '03 they started 42 different guys, went 14-2 and won the SB.
In '04 they started 40 different guys, went 14-2 and won the SB.
In '05 they've started 43 different players and are 6-5.
It has been suggested that poor coaching and poor play on the players part are the cause of the mediocre record. Undoubtably, Belichick misses Weis and Crennel. It's not that he couldn't run the O or the D, but it's just too much to ask for him to do BOTH. I don't think he has time to sleep. Another HUGE reason for the poor record is the horrible off-season of Pioli. We've been over this and I'm not going down that road again. Even though the number of starters is similar to '02 & '04, I think that it's which players they have lost to injury that are important. Light, Dillon, Faulk, Graham, Watson, Koppen, Brown, Givens on O. The whole damn secondary on D, Seymour, Green, Bruschi, and the Johnson retirement which they don't count in games lost to injury.
Speaking of injuries:
Brady - probable
Ashworth, Dillon, Faulk, Givens, Graham, Johnson, McGinest, Pass, Sanders, Stone all QUESTIONABLE.
Light - doubtful. There are rumors that he is done for the year.
The fact that Mike Cloud was released leads me to believe that Dillon and or Faulk will be playing this week v. the Jets.
In this weeks ESPN power rankings the Pats have slipped to 15. How bad is that? The Vikings are 16.
If you feel the way I do about Tom Brady, you may go to NFL.com and vote for him to make the pro-bowl. Even though he leads the league in several categories, he is 4th in AFC voting behind Manning, Palmer and Roethlesberger. Roethlesberger! Are you F*@#ing kidding me, 14 freakin passes a game! I could see if Brady was battling Brees, but this is rediculous.
My best efforts will be made to try to post as often as I can, so check back soon.
p.s. Good riddance to Joe Thornton, the Drew Bledsoe of the Bruins.
Friday, November 18, 2005
Pats vs Saints Preview
Once again we have to ask what the guys in Vegas know that we don't know. The Pats are favored by 10 points over the Aints this week. I'll take the Saints and the points, thank you. While I think the Pats will/should win, all I can find are reasons why the Saints should win this game.
1. The Pats are at home, where the crowds have been silent and the Saints over the last two seasons are better on the road than they've been at home.
2. Joe Horn and Dante Stallworth are legit deep threats. They must be salivating over the Pats secondary.
3. Mobile quarterback and Mike Vick's cousin, Arron Brooks. This will come into play on 3rd down convertions. The Pats D is horrible on 3rd down, now factor in a QB that can run for it IF the receivers are covered. Bad news.
4. The Saints are 31st against the run. So we can expect Heath Evans to go for 100yds this week?
5. The Saints D is 5th against the Pass, 4th in sacks and 3rd in INT's.
6. The Saints are good against the pass because their D-line is great at generating a pass rush with just 4 rushers. (Watch for Wil Smith) With a 4 man rush, they can cover with 7.
7. The Saints are coming off their bye week.
8. The Saints are out of it and have nothing to play for. Playing the defending super bowl champs is the super bowl for them this year. They'll be fired up.
9. Does Antwan Smith have something to prove to his old team?
10. I would have made this a top ten list had I thought of a 10th reason.
It appears to me that the Pats MUST be able to run the ball in order to win. Heath Evans will probably have 100 yds if the Pats win. Either that, or they come out and score early and let the Saints pack it in.
My pick: Pats 24-20
NOTES:
Patrick Pass has been practicing this week. It will be interesting to see if Belichick is willing to play him after his horrendous fumble vs. Bills.
Matt Light and Kevin Faulk are now both listed as questionable. Both had been listed as OUT for the last several weeks.
The Pats spent the majority of Thursdays practice working on 3rd down situations.
Tom Brady leads the NFL in passing yards with 2,560. At his current pace he will throw for a total of 4551 yds, just 4 behind the Franchise record of 4555 set by Bledsoe in 1994.
If Brady maintains his QB rating of 94.9 he will break the franchise record of 93.4 currently held by Tony Eason since 1984.
Enjoy the game, it should be another good one.
1. The Pats are at home, where the crowds have been silent and the Saints over the last two seasons are better on the road than they've been at home.
2. Joe Horn and Dante Stallworth are legit deep threats. They must be salivating over the Pats secondary.
3. Mobile quarterback and Mike Vick's cousin, Arron Brooks. This will come into play on 3rd down convertions. The Pats D is horrible on 3rd down, now factor in a QB that can run for it IF the receivers are covered. Bad news.
4. The Saints are 31st against the run. So we can expect Heath Evans to go for 100yds this week?
5. The Saints D is 5th against the Pass, 4th in sacks and 3rd in INT's.
6. The Saints are good against the pass because their D-line is great at generating a pass rush with just 4 rushers. (Watch for Wil Smith) With a 4 man rush, they can cover with 7.
7. The Saints are coming off their bye week.
8. The Saints are out of it and have nothing to play for. Playing the defending super bowl champs is the super bowl for them this year. They'll be fired up.
9. Does Antwan Smith have something to prove to his old team?
10. I would have made this a top ten list had I thought of a 10th reason.
It appears to me that the Pats MUST be able to run the ball in order to win. Heath Evans will probably have 100 yds if the Pats win. Either that, or they come out and score early and let the Saints pack it in.
My pick: Pats 24-20
NOTES:
Patrick Pass has been practicing this week. It will be interesting to see if Belichick is willing to play him after his horrendous fumble vs. Bills.
Matt Light and Kevin Faulk are now both listed as questionable. Both had been listed as OUT for the last several weeks.
The Pats spent the majority of Thursdays practice working on 3rd down situations.
Tom Brady leads the NFL in passing yards with 2,560. At his current pace he will throw for a total of 4551 yds, just 4 behind the Franchise record of 4555 set by Bledsoe in 1994.
If Brady maintains his QB rating of 94.9 he will break the franchise record of 93.4 currently held by Tony Eason since 1984.
Enjoy the game, it should be another good one.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Help Troy Brown
Troy Brown is giving up his 2 club seats for this Sunday's game vs New Orleans to help the victims of the hurricanes in the Gulf Coast. For your chance to win visit www.netraffle.com today! The deadline is Friday @9AM.
Tickets are only $2.00 each but you have to buy 5 tix.
The grand prize winner will receive:
Troy Brown's 2 club seats for this weeks game,
round trip limo to Foxborough,
a football autograhed by the team,
2 passes to the Patriots after game party as Troy's guests (bring your camera!)
This humble blogger would be happy to attend with you should you win.
P.S.
Entering is easy, it took about 3 minutes. If you go to the site, you'll notice some other pretty cool raffles such as 2 tix for the sox opening day and a day of golf with Ray Bourque.
and I'm not going to tell you how many tix I bought for Troy Browns seats.
Tickets are only $2.00 each but you have to buy 5 tix.
The grand prize winner will receive:
Troy Brown's 2 club seats for this weeks game,
round trip limo to Foxborough,
a football autograhed by the team,
2 passes to the Patriots after game party as Troy's guests (bring your camera!)
This humble blogger would be happy to attend with you should you win.
P.S.
Entering is easy, it took about 3 minutes. If you go to the site, you'll notice some other pretty cool raffles such as 2 tix for the sox opening day and a day of golf with Ray Bourque.
and I'm not going to tell you how many tix I bought for Troy Browns seats.
Mid-week Notes
If you haven't already heard, the Pats lost 2 more players to the injured reserve list this week. Center Dan Koppen with a seperated shoulder and CB Randall Gay with a high ankle sprain with possible ligament damage are the two latest victims. To replace their roster spots the team has signed former Patriot lineman Gene Mruczkowski and CB Artrell Hawkins who played 8 seasons with the Bengals before being released last off season. The total number of Patriots on IR is now 9.
In my opinion, I almost wish they would tank the season, miss the playoffs, and get a better draft pick. We may have been spoiled with our superbowls, but I don't even want to make the playoffs knowing that we don't have a chance to win it all this year. The BEST thing that can come out of this season is a healthy Brady. He took a beating in Miami, and that's certainly not the only game he got his ass kicked. I say start Flutie, let the rookies and younger players gain experience and get a better draft pick. Unfortunately, that will never happen. They'll continue to play Brady in front of a patchwork O-Line and hope that he stays upright. They'll win the division, host a first round game vs Cincy or San Diego or J'ville. Maybe they win that game, MAYBE. Then they'll be on to Indy and the end of the season. IF they happen to win that then they'd have to go to DENVER. It's just not going to happen this year, so in my opinion they should just start preping for next season.
Here are some stats:
Troy Brown has 499 career receptions. He will become only the second player in Patriots history to total 500 receptions. (Stanley Morgan 534)
The Pats are still 2nd in the League with 275.5 passing yds/game.
Deion Branch is 3rd inthe league with 13.4 yds/catch. He currently has 50 catches this season, his career high is 57 in 2003.
Josh Miller is 4th in net punt average at 39.6 yds. For my money he's the best kicker in the game because of his uncanny ability to down punts inside the 10 yard line. The fact that he is the funniest guy on the team doesn't hurt either. If you get a chance to see a Josh Miller interview, watch it.
The Pats are 10th in Red Zone offense with 17 TD's and 8FG in 29 trips.
The Patriots have a grand total of 13 sacks this year, 31st in the league. In their 4 losses they have a total of 2 sacks.
The Saints are a -13 in giveaway/takeaway. They have 27 giveaways.
For those of you grumbling that the Patriots scored their go ahead 4th quarter TD too soon leaving Miami time instead of killing the clock, Tom Brady explained. He said the play call was for a short pass over the middle, getting vinatieri closer and getting down to the two minute warning. When Brady got to the line, he read the Miami D to be in an all out Blitz. He knew he'd have Watson in single coverage on the outside. Watson read the blitz and changed his route accordingly. As you all know, Brady hit Watson for the TD, but it was because Miami's D dictated the audible.
In my opinion, I almost wish they would tank the season, miss the playoffs, and get a better draft pick. We may have been spoiled with our superbowls, but I don't even want to make the playoffs knowing that we don't have a chance to win it all this year. The BEST thing that can come out of this season is a healthy Brady. He took a beating in Miami, and that's certainly not the only game he got his ass kicked. I say start Flutie, let the rookies and younger players gain experience and get a better draft pick. Unfortunately, that will never happen. They'll continue to play Brady in front of a patchwork O-Line and hope that he stays upright. They'll win the division, host a first round game vs Cincy or San Diego or J'ville. Maybe they win that game, MAYBE. Then they'll be on to Indy and the end of the season. IF they happen to win that then they'd have to go to DENVER. It's just not going to happen this year, so in my opinion they should just start preping for next season.
Here are some stats:
Troy Brown has 499 career receptions. He will become only the second player in Patriots history to total 500 receptions. (Stanley Morgan 534)
The Pats are still 2nd in the League with 275.5 passing yds/game.
Deion Branch is 3rd inthe league with 13.4 yds/catch. He currently has 50 catches this season, his career high is 57 in 2003.
Josh Miller is 4th in net punt average at 39.6 yds. For my money he's the best kicker in the game because of his uncanny ability to down punts inside the 10 yard line. The fact that he is the funniest guy on the team doesn't hurt either. If you get a chance to see a Josh Miller interview, watch it.
The Pats are 10th in Red Zone offense with 17 TD's and 8FG in 29 trips.
The Patriots have a grand total of 13 sacks this year, 31st in the league. In their 4 losses they have a total of 2 sacks.
The Saints are a -13 in giveaway/takeaway. They have 27 giveaways.
For those of you grumbling that the Patriots scored their go ahead 4th quarter TD too soon leaving Miami time instead of killing the clock, Tom Brady explained. He said the play call was for a short pass over the middle, getting vinatieri closer and getting down to the two minute warning. When Brady got to the line, he read the Miami D to be in an all out Blitz. He knew he'd have Watson in single coverage on the outside. Watson read the blitz and changed his route accordingly. As you all know, Brady hit Watson for the TD, but it was because Miami's D dictated the audible.
Sunday, November 13, 2005
Baby Steps
The Pats are slowly making progress to be a formidable opponent in the playoffs. This secondary should be playing together the rest of the way and will gel a bit better. Randall Gay's ankle will heal (hopefully). Bruschi is already changing games. Seymour money is healthy (for now) and they did a good job applying pressure on the passer and stopping the run. I realize that at times Ferrotte looked like Marino out there, but the end result was a win and a lot of possitives to build on.
Once again it wasn't pretty but the Pats found a way to win in a hostile environment. Somehow watching this game I felt like the Pats were going to win. I never had one of those, "they're gonna lose" moments. Though I thought that they left TOO much time on the clock after the game winning score.
There were two plays that stood out to me as most important in todays game. First was the Tedy Bruschi pass deflection at the goal line. Ferrotte had Welker wide open on a slant in the endzone when Bruschi came flying over to tip the all away. Mare went on to miss the field goal so no points were scored. It was the FIRST time this season that a New England opponent got in the red zone and didn't score. The second big play is one that gives me hope for this defense. After a long catch by McMichael, Colvin stripped him of the ball and the fumble was recovered by Ellis Hobbs. Typical of the championship defenses, bend and don't break, get the turnover at the key situation.
Speaking of Hobbs! I felt that he played a terrific game in his first NFL start. Yes, he was out of place on a couple of occassions, but hey rookie's will do that. He was good in coverage, he supported the run well and what great coverage on the goal line in one on one coverage at the end of the game. I'd also like to give mention to Heath Evans - great game.
It seems like I have praise for Tom Brady all the time, so if you think I'm finally going to get on his case for those two bad interceptions you're dead wrong. Brady actually came out in his press conference and said that the Offense deserves props for doing what they did today. Think about it, Brady is telling the truth, he is out there with:
NO #1 Left Tackle
NO #1 Right Tackle
NO #1 Tight End
NO #1 Center
NO #1 Running Back
NO #2 Running Back
NO #3 Running Back
NO #2 Wide Receiver
He had a tired Troy Brown that had to play Defense, a terrible Bethel Johnson, a useless Andre Johnson, he was on the road at a place where he had a nightmarish game last season, against an immense pass rush, taking many hits, in a very loud staium.
He only went 21 of 36 for 275 yards and for the 21st time in his career, a game winning 4th quarter drive. I don't know how he'll go down in history, but I for one make sure that I enjoy every moment of his performances.
Looking ahead, I REALLY don't like the New Orleans matchup.....
Friday, November 11, 2005
Notes and the Dolphins
Belichick and Dolphins coach Nick Saban have quite a history together. Saban was Belichick's defensive coordinator in Cleveland before moving on to coach Michigan St and LSU. There is no surprise then, when we look at the number of Patriots from LSU. Saban gave Belichick the scoop on several college players, mostly from the ACC and especially from LSU. The greatest example of this is undrafted CB Randall Gay. Saban specifidally called Belichick after the 2004 draft to let him know that Gay was a player. Shortly after he was signed to a free agent contract and the rest is history. For the last 5 offseasons prior to Saban going to the Dolphins, Belichick and Saban spent varying amounts of time locked away together critiqing each others game films. The fact that nobody knows Belichick's X's and O's better than Saban and vice versa makes Sunday's game all the more interesting.
Missing practice on Thursday wereWarren, Graham, Gay, Ashworth and of course, Seymour money.
ESPN's power rankings for this week:
Colts
Broncos
Pitt
Atlanta
Carolina
and the Pats at #14.
Here is a look at the 7 different starting secondary's the Pats have had to use in 8 games:
game 1 Samuel-Poole-Harrison-Wilson
game 2 Samuel-Gay-Harrison WIlson
game 3 Samuel-Starks-Harrison-Wilson
game 4 Samuel-Starks-GScott-Wilson
game 5 Samuel-Starks-GScott-Wilson
game 6 Samuel-Starks-Sanders-Wilson
game 7 Samuel-Starks-Freeman-Wilson
game 8 Samuel-Starks-Gay-Wilson
game 9 ? Benoit-Chase-Scieszka-Neves?
Seriously, game 9 might be Samuel-Poteat-Stone-Wilson
With one roster spot open, the Pats have worked out Defensive Backs: Rod Babers, Aaron Beasley, Terrell Buckley, and Mario Edwards. They may opt for Ray Ventrone from the practice squad.
Looking at Sunday's game, again it is hard to pick the Pats to win AT Miami.
The Pats went 14-2 last year and lost at Miami, remember? The year before when they went 14-2, it took a blocked FG and an 80 yard bomb in overtime to Troy Brown. (who?)
The Pats are weak up the middle against the run and Miami has 2 backs that they can pound up the middle in Ronnie Brown and Smokey Williams. There is no better remedy for an offense that struggles to throw (Miami) than a terrible secondary. Do you know of a terrible secondary? I do. (Samuel Poteat Stone Wilson)
The game will probably be won or lost on first down however. The Pats D is last in the league in yards allowed on first down. The Dolphins O is 7th in yards gained on first down. With Miami's good running game and a poor passing game, it will be imperative for the Pats to keep them in 3rd and long situations if they want to win this one.
I'm looking for the Pats to win by loading up the line of scrimmage and stopping the run. Pats 16-10.
Missing practice on Thursday wereWarren, Graham, Gay, Ashworth and of course, Seymour money.
ESPN's power rankings for this week:
Colts
Broncos
Pitt
Atlanta
Carolina
and the Pats at #14.
Here is a look at the 7 different starting secondary's the Pats have had to use in 8 games:
game 1 Samuel-Poole-Harrison-Wilson
game 2 Samuel-Gay-Harrison WIlson
game 3 Samuel-Starks-Harrison-Wilson
game 4 Samuel-Starks-GScott-Wilson
game 5 Samuel-Starks-GScott-Wilson
game 6 Samuel-Starks-Sanders-Wilson
game 7 Samuel-Starks-Freeman-Wilson
game 8 Samuel-Starks-Gay-Wilson
game 9 ? Benoit-Chase-Scieszka-Neves?
Seriously, game 9 might be Samuel-Poteat-Stone-Wilson
With one roster spot open, the Pats have worked out Defensive Backs: Rod Babers, Aaron Beasley, Terrell Buckley, and Mario Edwards. They may opt for Ray Ventrone from the practice squad.
Looking at Sunday's game, again it is hard to pick the Pats to win AT Miami.
The Pats went 14-2 last year and lost at Miami, remember? The year before when they went 14-2, it took a blocked FG and an 80 yard bomb in overtime to Troy Brown. (who?)
The Pats are weak up the middle against the run and Miami has 2 backs that they can pound up the middle in Ronnie Brown and Smokey Williams. There is no better remedy for an offense that struggles to throw (Miami) than a terrible secondary. Do you know of a terrible secondary? I do. (Samuel Poteat Stone Wilson)
The game will probably be won or lost on first down however. The Pats D is last in the league in yards allowed on first down. The Dolphins O is 7th in yards gained on first down. With Miami's good running game and a poor passing game, it will be imperative for the Pats to keep them in 3rd and long situations if they want to win this one.
I'm looking for the Pats to win by loading up the line of scrimmage and stopping the run. Pats 16-10.
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
wow
This picture of Belichick pretty much says it all.
Go ahead, post your comments. Let it all out, I'm sure you all need a place to vent after last night.
I think it's safe to say that right now the Pats aren't even in contention for the superbowl. Like I've said before, its a lot like 2002. The league caught up to them then, and they have now. Part of it is injuries, and part of it is the failure to secure impact players in the off season. It is becoming obvious that this team has no heart, no emotion and no fire. Brady and Brown are on record as saying so. In addition, there isn't that force in the locker room anymore that was Bryan Cox in 2001 and has been Harrison since 2003. Those are guys you have to answer to when you come out flat or start to alter from the system. guys that make you drink the cool aid and if you don't work your but off they'd get on your case. It is missing since Harrison went down and it was missing in the 2002 season. This next off season may be an off season of HUGE turnover for the Pats. (Rumor's are starting that the locker room is divided and some guys aren't running with the system anymore.)I'll get into that when the time comes, as for now, we have a division to win and a short playoff run to enjoy.
I hope you all got to see Tom Brady on 60 minutes on Sunday. He is the true definition of a role model.
Sunday, November 06, 2005
Cut That Meat! Cut That Meat!
It will be hard to stop Indy's biggest fan of Butchers (Manning) this week if nobody decides to play. Here is the latest on the injuries going into tomorrow night's game:
CB Ellis Hobbs was added to the Injured list as questionable. This 'hurts' because he has some experience playing saftely in college and many had him penciled in to start next to Wilson this week.
Players who did NOT practice on Friday: Dillon, Pass, Gay, and Seymour money.
The Pats secondary is now left with Samuel Starks Gay Hobbs and Poteat at CB and for Safeties they have Wilson, Sanders, Stone and Don Davis.
(Can you say Troy Brown?)
What the F is wrong with Seymour money!?!?! A knee sprain 5 weeks ago! The MF needs to suck it up, be a leader, be there NOW when the team needs him most-like a captain should. But no, he refuses to play at less than 100%, because he's not as effective. (just like one Ty Poole) F U Seymour. PLEASE, PLEASE Bill and Scott, trade Seymour's ass this off-season like this Blogger recommended when he held out of camp for more money. I'll re-iterate, send him to San Francisco for 2 #1 picks.
Congrats to Charlie Wies on another big win this week and for the HUGE contract extention. 10 years and between $35-40 milllion. Charlie is now THE highest paid coach in college football. It took 7 games, 2 of whcih were losses.
Friday, November 04, 2005
Whatever I Could Find to Share
The previous post was loaded with stats, so lets look at some facts and possibilities. While most of the stats favor Indy, it gets even scarier for the Pats fan if you consider some of the matchups this game presents. First and foremost, Dwight Freeney against Logan Mankins. Yikes. How about Dwayne Starks trying to cover Marvin Harrison? I don't even want to think about that one.
Here is the Pats injury list:
Light - out
Faulk - out
Questionable:
Brown, Dillon, Dwight, Gay, Givens, Green, Hill, McGinest, Pass, Sanders, Seymour, Warren and Watson.
As always, Tom Brady is probable.
It appears that the Pats have signed RB Mike Cloud, as there is official word from Foxborough. In the last 7-10 days the Pats have worked out RB's Olandis Gary, Erik Bickerstaff, Quentin Griffin (can you say wizzenator?), Charlie Garner, and Anthony Thomas. Maybe they should have held on to Kory Chapman or Cedric Cobbs. Evidently Zeroue couldn't figure out when and who to block, that's why he got cut. To make room for Cloud, the Pats cut Arturo Freeman of all people. Who the hell is going to play Safety this week?
The national know-it-alls are calling it now or never for the Colts. Everything is stacked in the Colts favor and if they can't beat the Pats in NE this week, they'll never have a better opportunity. The Colts opponents have 'Belichicked' Manning, playing similar defenses to what the Pats have always used to slow the Colts O. Manning has had lots of practice against a Patriots-like scheme and that has led to James' MVP first half of the season. The Colts D, however, has not faced an offense anything like what the Pats can be when they come to play. It will be the first true test for their D. Looks to me like this one will be a shoot out.
ESPN Power Rankings:
1Colts
2Pitt('Berger is out at least 2 weeks and they are #2.)
3Broncos (sure, if they're playing at HOME)
4falcons (I will never understand this)
5seahaks (sure, if they're playing at HOME)
6Giants
7Bengals
8Panthers
9Pats
10 Bolts
These guys never fail to baffle me. Pats are WAY below Pitt and Atlanta, both of whom they beat on the road, but they are ahead of the Chargers who beat the Pats in NE. (rock paper siscors?)
To answer everyone's question, YES I think the Pats can win. Do I like their chances? not really. The thing about this team has always been that when you write them off, when you give them no chance to win, they play their best. We haven't seen that from this year's team so it's hard to believe that they'll pull it off. Here's what it'll take:
1. Win the turnover battle. If turnovers are even, Pats lose.
2. Brady will have to be on fire. It doesn't appear that the D will hold up, so
Tom will have to outscore Indy and convert on 3rd down.
3. Get a lead and run Dillon into the ground. Keep Peyton on the bench.
4. Win the field position battle with special teams.
5. Have the ball last. If it becomes a shoot out, whoever has it last wins.
It's going to take their best game to win this week. Since they have yet to put it all together in one game so far, the odds are pretty good that they're due for a good game. If I have to bet, I'd take NE and the points, but there is just way too much stacked against this years team to win this one. So as much as I'd like to see the Pats win, I'm picking Indy: 31-30.
Here is the Pats injury list:
Light - out
Faulk - out
Questionable:
Brown, Dillon, Dwight, Gay, Givens, Green, Hill, McGinest, Pass, Sanders, Seymour, Warren and Watson.
As always, Tom Brady is probable.
It appears that the Pats have signed RB Mike Cloud, as there is official word from Foxborough. In the last 7-10 days the Pats have worked out RB's Olandis Gary, Erik Bickerstaff, Quentin Griffin (can you say wizzenator?), Charlie Garner, and Anthony Thomas. Maybe they should have held on to Kory Chapman or Cedric Cobbs. Evidently Zeroue couldn't figure out when and who to block, that's why he got cut. To make room for Cloud, the Pats cut Arturo Freeman of all people. Who the hell is going to play Safety this week?
The national know-it-alls are calling it now or never for the Colts. Everything is stacked in the Colts favor and if they can't beat the Pats in NE this week, they'll never have a better opportunity. The Colts opponents have 'Belichicked' Manning, playing similar defenses to what the Pats have always used to slow the Colts O. Manning has had lots of practice against a Patriots-like scheme and that has led to James' MVP first half of the season. The Colts D, however, has not faced an offense anything like what the Pats can be when they come to play. It will be the first true test for their D. Looks to me like this one will be a shoot out.
ESPN Power Rankings:
1Colts
2Pitt('Berger is out at least 2 weeks and they are #2.)
3Broncos (sure, if they're playing at HOME)
4falcons (I will never understand this)
5seahaks (sure, if they're playing at HOME)
6Giants
7Bengals
8Panthers
9Pats
10 Bolts
These guys never fail to baffle me. Pats are WAY below Pitt and Atlanta, both of whom they beat on the road, but they are ahead of the Chargers who beat the Pats in NE. (rock paper siscors?)
To answer everyone's question, YES I think the Pats can win. Do I like their chances? not really. The thing about this team has always been that when you write them off, when you give them no chance to win, they play their best. We haven't seen that from this year's team so it's hard to believe that they'll pull it off. Here's what it'll take:
1. Win the turnover battle. If turnovers are even, Pats lose.
2. Brady will have to be on fire. It doesn't appear that the D will hold up, so
Tom will have to outscore Indy and convert on 3rd down.
3. Get a lead and run Dillon into the ground. Keep Peyton on the bench.
4. Win the field position battle with special teams.
5. Have the ball last. If it becomes a shoot out, whoever has it last wins.
It's going to take their best game to win this week. Since they have yet to put it all together in one game so far, the odds are pretty good that they're due for a good game. If I have to bet, I'd take NE and the points, but there is just way too much stacked against this years team to win this one. So as much as I'd like to see the Pats win, I'm picking Indy: 31-30.
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
Mid-week Notes
This week's game is huge for the Pats, not necessarily in terms of where they stand with the Colts, but where they stand in the AFC. At 7-0 and a pussycat schedule, the Colts will get the #1 seed in the AFC even if the Pats win the rest of their games. We should all be keeping our eyes on that all imprtant #2 seed - and the bye week that comes with it. If the Pats are to have any chance of threepeating, they're gonna need a first round bye and home field in round 2. In that scenario, they'd have to win a game at home (v. Pitt or Denver or SD or KC or Cincy) then go to Indy to play for the right to beat the NFC representative in the SB. If they get seed 3 or 4 (they can't do worse than 3or4 by winning the division) then they'd host a wild card game in round 1, go on the road in round 2, then go to Indy, just to get to the SB. I think that is way too much to ask of this years team. It is still tough with the bye, but certainly more reasonable. Consider that 86% of SB winners since this playoff format was developed have been a #1 or #2 seed with a first round bye.
Here's how the AFC currenty shakes out:
Colts 7-0
Cincy 6-2
Denver 6-2 (beat us head to head, so they win a tie breaker)
Pittsburgh 5-2
PATS 4-3
KC 4-3
Jax 4-3
SD 4-4
It's definitely an uphill climb to the #2 spot.
Some stats:
Brady has thrown for 2020 yds to Manning's 1551.
James has nearly doubled the rushing output of Dillon 801-401
The Pats are 26th in overall Defense, Indy is 4th
The Pats are 5th in overall Offense, Indy is 9th.
The Pats have scored 159 pts and given up 180. YIKES!
The Colts have scored 189 pts and given up 77.
While Dwight Freeney gets the headlines, he is second on the Colts with 6 sacks. Robert Mathis, the OTHER starting DE leads the league with 8 sacks.
So what makes you feel good about this game if you are a Pats fan? Hard to tell with this years team. I believe that they have two major factors in their favor. First, they've always been a team that relishes the underdog role. They love the 'nobody thought we could do it' line. This game HAS to be their statement game. Everyone has anointed the Colts as the SB champs, and it's time for the Pats to step up and show everyone that they're still the team to beat in the AFC. If this team has any pride at all, this will be their best game of the season, win or lose. Second, the team that actually came the closest to beating the Colts was Romeo Crennel's Browns. They held Indy to 13 points - AT Indy. Belichick is on record as using that game as the basis for his gameplanning this week. Have you ever been golfing and you have a putt that you're just not sure if it'll go left or right, but the guy you're playing with is just inside your ball so he putts first? You watch what line he takes, you watch what his ball does and learn how the putt is going to break. Romeo just missed his putt, Belichick is now lining up his putt.
Some smaller favorable factors to consider:
Is Belichick in Manning's head?
Pats are 6-0 v Colts since 2001.
Pats are home. (hope the crowd doesn't sit on their hands again)
An over-rated Colts D hasn't faced a top 15 offense all year.
On the injury front, Seymour money, Dillon, Pass, Sanders and Warren all sat out practice on Tuesday. Gay and Troy Brown returned to practice.
Tedy Bruschi won NFL Defensive Player of the Week honors.
Belichick when asked how to stop Freeney: "Put a ball and chain on him, that would slow him down."
More to come on Friday, though I'm not sure I want to make any more predictions about this team. I've lost some of my confidence in them after last week, but this week could do a lot to renew my spirit.
Here's how the AFC currenty shakes out:
Colts 7-0
Cincy 6-2
Denver 6-2 (beat us head to head, so they win a tie breaker)
Pittsburgh 5-2
PATS 4-3
KC 4-3
Jax 4-3
SD 4-4
It's definitely an uphill climb to the #2 spot.
Some stats:
Brady has thrown for 2020 yds to Manning's 1551.
James has nearly doubled the rushing output of Dillon 801-401
The Pats are 26th in overall Defense, Indy is 4th
The Pats are 5th in overall Offense, Indy is 9th.
The Pats have scored 159 pts and given up 180. YIKES!
The Colts have scored 189 pts and given up 77.
While Dwight Freeney gets the headlines, he is second on the Colts with 6 sacks. Robert Mathis, the OTHER starting DE leads the league with 8 sacks.
So what makes you feel good about this game if you are a Pats fan? Hard to tell with this years team. I believe that they have two major factors in their favor. First, they've always been a team that relishes the underdog role. They love the 'nobody thought we could do it' line. This game HAS to be their statement game. Everyone has anointed the Colts as the SB champs, and it's time for the Pats to step up and show everyone that they're still the team to beat in the AFC. If this team has any pride at all, this will be their best game of the season, win or lose. Second, the team that actually came the closest to beating the Colts was Romeo Crennel's Browns. They held Indy to 13 points - AT Indy. Belichick is on record as using that game as the basis for his gameplanning this week. Have you ever been golfing and you have a putt that you're just not sure if it'll go left or right, but the guy you're playing with is just inside your ball so he putts first? You watch what line he takes, you watch what his ball does and learn how the putt is going to break. Romeo just missed his putt, Belichick is now lining up his putt.
Some smaller favorable factors to consider:
Is Belichick in Manning's head?
Pats are 6-0 v Colts since 2001.
Pats are home. (hope the crowd doesn't sit on their hands again)
An over-rated Colts D hasn't faced a top 15 offense all year.
On the injury front, Seymour money, Dillon, Pass, Sanders and Warren all sat out practice on Tuesday. Gay and Troy Brown returned to practice.
Tedy Bruschi won NFL Defensive Player of the Week honors.
Belichick when asked how to stop Freeney: "Put a ball and chain on him, that would slow him down."
More to come on Friday, though I'm not sure I want to make any more predictions about this team. I've lost some of my confidence in them after last week, but this week could do a lot to renew my spirit.
Well it Wasn't Pretty
It certainly wasn't pretty, but the Pats found a way to win just as they have in championship years past. I found it frightening how the Pats could come out with no emotion, no fire, no desire given the circumstances surrounding the game. If they come out like that this week they'll be down 31-0 at the half instead of 3-0.
While the play of the game was Colvin's stripsack, and Bruschi was outstanding in his return, the Player of the game had to be Asante Samuel. He is the ONLY guy that looked fired up, the only guy that played steady D and he had a few plays that helped to turn the momentum of the game. Overall, if you take away the one, bonehead, 55 yd TD, the Defense was what a Belichick D is supposed to be. Bend, don't break; give up yards, not points. Frustrating as hell to watch though, isn't it? Once again, rediculous penalties cost them in key situations - and what the hell is 'unnatural movement' for a penalty? They might have gotten off the field sooner had they done better than allowing 50% on third down conversions.
That call and the Patrick Pass fumble are two plays you may never see again in your lifetime. Besides sputtering in the first half and Pass' play, the O came through when they needed to. Had they bothered to use their tight ends, my pregame yardage/TD predictions might have been right.
Great job on special teams coverage v. McGee, the league's leading returner was a non-factor.
Watch for an INDY post later in the day. Looks like I was wrong, the Pats are NOT favored, but how could you favor them v. anyone after last week?
While the play of the game was Colvin's stripsack, and Bruschi was outstanding in his return, the Player of the game had to be Asante Samuel. He is the ONLY guy that looked fired up, the only guy that played steady D and he had a few plays that helped to turn the momentum of the game. Overall, if you take away the one, bonehead, 55 yd TD, the Defense was what a Belichick D is supposed to be. Bend, don't break; give up yards, not points. Frustrating as hell to watch though, isn't it? Once again, rediculous penalties cost them in key situations - and what the hell is 'unnatural movement' for a penalty? They might have gotten off the field sooner had they done better than allowing 50% on third down conversions.
That call and the Patrick Pass fumble are two plays you may never see again in your lifetime. Besides sputtering in the first half and Pass' play, the O came through when they needed to. Had they bothered to use their tight ends, my pregame yardage/TD predictions might have been right.
Great job on special teams coverage v. McGee, the league's leading returner was a non-factor.
Watch for an INDY post later in the day. Looks like I was wrong, the Pats are NOT favored, but how could you favor them v. anyone after last week?
Friday, October 28, 2005
What to watch for in Foxborough
Sunday night will mark the return of one Tedy Bruschi. At home, national audience, division opponent. If the Pats can't get fired up for this one they're dead. Those fans are going to go insane anytime Bruschi walks on the field. Two Pats to watch this week that Bruschi will have a direct effect on will be Eugene Wilson and Chad Brown. Bruschi can take the Defensive reads and calls away from Wilson and Brown will be able to be a role player again, playing only some on the inside, mostly on the outside as a pass rusher. He is a devastating pass rusher that has to be accounted for, but he hasn't been able to fill that role because he's had to be Bruschi in the middle.
The Bills are horrible against the run and they can't pass either. In their last 11 games they've failed to throw for 200 yards. It's been 37 games since they've thrown for 300. People are calling for JP Losman to be the starter over Holcombe, conceding this season and letting the kid learn on the job. That leads me to believe the key to the game for the Pats is to stack the line of scrimmage and stop McGahee at all cost. The Pats will once again play a soft zone D in the secondary, but against such a feeble passing attack that should be effective enough. The whole game will rest on the ability to stuff the run. On the other side of the ball, the experts are expecting this to be Dillon's break out game. The Bills are weak up the middle since the loss of Pat Williams and they have an undersized middle line backer. I've said this before and been completely wrong, but watch for Belichick to use Watson/Graham a lot this week vs the aging Lawyer Milloy. If Milloy has to worry about covering those guys, he can't be hovering around the line of scrimmage in run support.
The Pats should be able to score at will against this team, so it's really just a question of what the Defense will do. Buffalo is very strong on special teams, especially Terrence McGee. He averages 34.5 yds/return and could run one back any time. A bad special teams play could make the difference in this game if the Defense doesn't show up.
My pick is the Pats by two TD's 34-20. Dillon will have 80-90 yds and a TD. Branch will have 8-10 catches and two TD's and one of the TE's will have a TD.
The Bills are horrible against the run and they can't pass either. In their last 11 games they've failed to throw for 200 yards. It's been 37 games since they've thrown for 300. People are calling for JP Losman to be the starter over Holcombe, conceding this season and letting the kid learn on the job. That leads me to believe the key to the game for the Pats is to stack the line of scrimmage and stop McGahee at all cost. The Pats will once again play a soft zone D in the secondary, but against such a feeble passing attack that should be effective enough. The whole game will rest on the ability to stuff the run. On the other side of the ball, the experts are expecting this to be Dillon's break out game. The Bills are weak up the middle since the loss of Pat Williams and they have an undersized middle line backer. I've said this before and been completely wrong, but watch for Belichick to use Watson/Graham a lot this week vs the aging Lawyer Milloy. If Milloy has to worry about covering those guys, he can't be hovering around the line of scrimmage in run support.
The Pats should be able to score at will against this team, so it's really just a question of what the Defense will do. Buffalo is very strong on special teams, especially Terrence McGee. He averages 34.5 yds/return and could run one back any time. A bad special teams play could make the difference in this game if the Defense doesn't show up.
My pick is the Pats by two TD's 34-20. Dillon will have 80-90 yds and a TD. Branch will have 8-10 catches and two TD's and one of the TE's will have a TD.
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
ESPN Power Rankings...and a little rant...
#1 Colts
#2 Pitt
#3 Atlanta
x
x
x
x
x
x
#10 Giants
#11 Pats.
If the Colts are so high and mighty, and "by far the best team in the league" then why are the Patriots favored to beat Indy next week? As a matter of fact, one Vegas insider said that the Pats game is tho ONLY game all season in which the Colts will be underdogs. Frauds.
#2 Pitt
#3 Atlanta
x
x
x
x
x
x
#10 Giants
#11 Pats.
If the Colts are so high and mighty, and "by far the best team in the league" then why are the Patriots favored to beat Indy next week? As a matter of fact, one Vegas insider said that the Pats game is tho ONLY game all season in which the Colts will be underdogs. Frauds.
Dare I Question....
Something has been telling me not to write this blog. Maybe it won't be very well received, but I feel compelled to question the powers that be in New England. It's been a slow bye week for news anyway.
What happened to the 'genius' tandem of Belichick and Pioli? It looks to me that they happened to get lucky and had one great draft and have been suspect ever since. Mankins and Kaczur have been consistant performers from this years draft. Who else can you name from the draft? Matt Cassell? Do we need another QB? Here's the rest of this years class: Hobbs CB (IR) Sanders S(has to play ineffecrtive saftey due to injuries) Ryan Claridge LB(IR) Andy Stokes TE (released).
I really wish I could say better things about this years' free agents: Beisel and Brown have been disappointing. It would have been nice to see experienced, veteran guys be able to pick up Belichick's D. Maybe the return of Bruschi will allow for Brown and Beisel to perform better as 'role players' rather than as starters. Andre Davis has yet to get on the field. Duane Starks probably shouldn't be on the field either. Chad Scott played OK at best, but is also hurt. So far the biggest FA acquisition has been Tim Dwight. He's had 3 big catches and has really helped the punt return game.
You may be thinking that Belichick and Pioli had a down year. So what, right? They're entitled to one bad year. Doesn't this class reek like the 2002 FA class after the first SB win? A FA class that failed to make an impact and the team ended up 9-7? (see Donald Hayes and Steve Martin) Oh yeah, Bill and Scott messed that up too.
What about last year's draft? Other than having Vince Wilfork fall into their laps at #21 (he was SUPPOSED to be a top 10 pick), the Pats got Ben Watson. Ben Watson has had one good game so far in his career. Then they got Marquise Hill who is contributing a little this year, Guss Scott who was a disappointment at Safety before being placed on IR, Dexter Reid who got cut this year and plays for INDY, Cedric Cobbs-cut, PK Sam-practice squad, Christian Morton-cut.
Obviously, injuries and the sudden retirement of Ted Johnson were unseen, and unplanned for. I'm just saying that maybe these two guys have been a little over-rated around here for the last 4 years. Remember they've already traded away two of next years picks, so they are already at a disadvantage for next off season.
Maybe it was too much to ask for them to continue drafting the likes of Seymour money, Brady, Light, Koppen, Wilson, Wilfork, Green and Warren.
What happened to the 'genius' tandem of Belichick and Pioli? It looks to me that they happened to get lucky and had one great draft and have been suspect ever since. Mankins and Kaczur have been consistant performers from this years draft. Who else can you name from the draft? Matt Cassell? Do we need another QB? Here's the rest of this years class: Hobbs CB (IR) Sanders S(has to play ineffecrtive saftey due to injuries) Ryan Claridge LB(IR) Andy Stokes TE (released).
I really wish I could say better things about this years' free agents: Beisel and Brown have been disappointing. It would have been nice to see experienced, veteran guys be able to pick up Belichick's D. Maybe the return of Bruschi will allow for Brown and Beisel to perform better as 'role players' rather than as starters. Andre Davis has yet to get on the field. Duane Starks probably shouldn't be on the field either. Chad Scott played OK at best, but is also hurt. So far the biggest FA acquisition has been Tim Dwight. He's had 3 big catches and has really helped the punt return game.
You may be thinking that Belichick and Pioli had a down year. So what, right? They're entitled to one bad year. Doesn't this class reek like the 2002 FA class after the first SB win? A FA class that failed to make an impact and the team ended up 9-7? (see Donald Hayes and Steve Martin) Oh yeah, Bill and Scott messed that up too.
What about last year's draft? Other than having Vince Wilfork fall into their laps at #21 (he was SUPPOSED to be a top 10 pick), the Pats got Ben Watson. Ben Watson has had one good game so far in his career. Then they got Marquise Hill who is contributing a little this year, Guss Scott who was a disappointment at Safety before being placed on IR, Dexter Reid who got cut this year and plays for INDY, Cedric Cobbs-cut, PK Sam-practice squad, Christian Morton-cut.
Obviously, injuries and the sudden retirement of Ted Johnson were unseen, and unplanned for. I'm just saying that maybe these two guys have been a little over-rated around here for the last 4 years. Remember they've already traded away two of next years picks, so they are already at a disadvantage for next off season.
Maybe it was too much to ask for them to continue drafting the likes of Seymour money, Brady, Light, Koppen, Wilson, Wilfork, Green and Warren.
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Roster moves, Injury updates and the Colts
Tedy Bruschi was activated and practiced today. According to all accounts he looked just fine. It was a non-contact practice.
Among other roster moves, Guss Scott has been placed on IR. Wesley Mallard was released, CB Hank Poteat and WR Andre Davis were re-signed. Davis may be an indication that Troy Brown is hurt pretty badly. Brown did not practice today as well as Dillon and McGinnest. Seymour money returned to practice and the pats were in the 3-4 defense STILL!!
ESPN's power rankings for this week:
1 Colts "Clearly number one...established themselves as the league's elite team...defense leading the way. FRAUDS
2 Broncos
3 Cincinnati
4 Atlanta (Hey, didn't the Pats beat Atlanta? AT Atlanta?)
5 Tampa Bay (They don't even have a starting QB)
6 Philli
7 Dallas
8 Pittsburgh (Hey, didn't the Pats beat Pitt? AT Pitt?)
9 San Diego
10 Jacksonville (They're kidding, right?)
11 Seattle (If I could revise my NFC Champion pick, I'd pick Seattle)
12 Patriots
Do you think the ESPN guys know something that we don't? Are they the 12th best team in the league? I for one certainly don't think so.
Why does it irk me so much that the Colts are everyone's darling this year? Because they are frauds. Ever since Peyton Manning has been in the league, they've tried to get him a superbowl ring. The Pats beat the snot out of the Colts, so the league changes the rules to allow receivers to run free. Manning can't beat the Pats in Foxborough, so the league gives the Pats the hardest 6 game start it can find, while the Colts play nobody's. Now Peyton can have his home field in the AFC Championship v. the Pats. Of course, the Pats will still win (ask the Steelers) only this year Peyton won't have the weather as an excuse. Here's a quick look at Peyton's Pathetic path of pansies so far this season.
Baltimore, 2-3 22nd in O 2nd in D
J'ville, 4-2 25th in O 4th in D
Cleveland 2-3 26th in O 27th in D
Tenn'see 2-4 19th in O 20th in D
San Fran 1-4 31st in O, last in D
St Louis 2-4 3rd in O, 26th in D (3 possesions 3 scores b4 Bulger hurt)
And THIS weeks MONSTER opponent?
Houston 0-5 32nd in O, 29th in D (whats the spread, 100 pts?)
That's a combined record of 13-25. Yeah, OK ESPN guys, I'd say you're right, the Colts are the best team in the league. I'm sure they'll come up with some perfectly legit excuse for Peyton after he loses at the Pats. Oh, did I fail to mention that poor Peyton has to come here to play? The league hooked him up there too. He comes here after his bye week.
In an unrelated story, the NFL announced it will be changing it's name to WLP starting in the 2006-2007 season. (We Love Peyton)
Foxborough...we have a problem....BUT
The Patriots finished the toughest 6 game schedule in league history at 3-3. If you consider the strength of opponent, being on the road and all of the injuries, I think 3-3 is about the best they could have hoped for. If they had, say Indianapolis' schedule, they'd be 5-1 and the talk around the league would be three-peat. Instead, we have to hear about how good the Indianapolis Frauds are and how 'superbowl caliber' their defense is. That's BS.
Once again 3-3 going into the bye is just like starting the season over at 0-0. They have an extra week to get some guys back (Poole, Seymour money, McGinnest, Beisel, Scott, Dillon, Brown, etc and BRUSCHI). They should also get back to the drawing board. Even with all of the injuries, they stayed in a 3-4, plain coverage, almost prevent defense so they wouldn't get burned on the long play. How'd that work for'em? It is time to get back to the 4-3 and utilize the strength of this team, the D-Line. Take the reigns off these guys. Typically, in BB's defense, the D Line hit the O Line and watch to see where the play is going and then fill the gap to either side of the O line guy. (2 gap system) Forget it Bill, you're getting torched that way. Not that I would attempt to hold a candle to BB's knowledge, but if that hasn't worked AT ALL, why not try something different. Here's an idea: Let them play!!!! Go to the 4-3, and let Seymour, Green, Wilfork and Warren get upfield on the snap, let them penetrate, let them get into the backfield and get some sacks and tackles for a loss. Maybe the pressure might even lead to, of all things, a TURNOVER! If the cover guys can't cover anyway, why not attack? What's the worse thing that could happen, they give up one or two big plays a game? They're already allowing that!
Here's some of the uglilness so far this season, the Pats are:
30th in takeaways with 3. Only Houston and Washington are worse.
25th in run defense. 125 yds/game
32nd (LAST) in red zone Defense. 19 trips, 15 TD's and 4 field goals
31st in first down Defense. They allow 6.4 yds/play on 1st down.
Here's some of the bright spots (Tom Brady):
3rd in passing offense, 295 yds/game
8th in first downs gained with 120
2nd in sacks allowed, only 7 sacks in 232 pass attempts - but that's ALL on Brady getting
rid of the ball, because you will never convince me that they've protected him this year.
How many times did you wince last week when Brady got hit? How many times have you
seen a blitzer come through untouched this season?
It HAS been pretty bad this year, but with the competition in the division being so bad, the Pats could probably go 9-7 and still win the division. I'm looking for a big turn around after the bye. With the remaining schedule they should only have a MAX of 3 more losses. MAYBE at Kansas City, MAYBE one division game, and VERY MAYBE to Indy, but I think that will be a statement game for the Pats. IF they do lose three more that still puts them comfortably in the playoffs at 10-6. So fear not Pats fans, it's bad but it can only get better.
I believe we have a faithful reader that is a Doctor. Hey Bryan, can you give us some medical insight on what's going on with Bruschi?
Once again 3-3 going into the bye is just like starting the season over at 0-0. They have an extra week to get some guys back (Poole, Seymour money, McGinnest, Beisel, Scott, Dillon, Brown, etc and BRUSCHI). They should also get back to the drawing board. Even with all of the injuries, they stayed in a 3-4, plain coverage, almost prevent defense so they wouldn't get burned on the long play. How'd that work for'em? It is time to get back to the 4-3 and utilize the strength of this team, the D-Line. Take the reigns off these guys. Typically, in BB's defense, the D Line hit the O Line and watch to see where the play is going and then fill the gap to either side of the O line guy. (2 gap system) Forget it Bill, you're getting torched that way. Not that I would attempt to hold a candle to BB's knowledge, but if that hasn't worked AT ALL, why not try something different. Here's an idea: Let them play!!!! Go to the 4-3, and let Seymour, Green, Wilfork and Warren get upfield on the snap, let them penetrate, let them get into the backfield and get some sacks and tackles for a loss. Maybe the pressure might even lead to, of all things, a TURNOVER! If the cover guys can't cover anyway, why not attack? What's the worse thing that could happen, they give up one or two big plays a game? They're already allowing that!
Here's some of the uglilness so far this season, the Pats are:
30th in takeaways with 3. Only Houston and Washington are worse.
25th in run defense. 125 yds/game
32nd (LAST) in red zone Defense. 19 trips, 15 TD's and 4 field goals
31st in first down Defense. They allow 6.4 yds/play on 1st down.
Here's some of the bright spots (Tom Brady):
3rd in passing offense, 295 yds/game
8th in first downs gained with 120
2nd in sacks allowed, only 7 sacks in 232 pass attempts - but that's ALL on Brady getting
rid of the ball, because you will never convince me that they've protected him this year.
How many times did you wince last week when Brady got hit? How many times have you
seen a blitzer come through untouched this season?
It HAS been pretty bad this year, but with the competition in the division being so bad, the Pats could probably go 9-7 and still win the division. I'm looking for a big turn around after the bye. With the remaining schedule they should only have a MAX of 3 more losses. MAYBE at Kansas City, MAYBE one division game, and VERY MAYBE to Indy, but I think that will be a statement game for the Pats. IF they do lose three more that still puts them comfortably in the playoffs at 10-6. So fear not Pats fans, it's bad but it can only get better.
I believe we have a faithful reader that is a Doctor. Hey Bryan, can you give us some medical insight on what's going on with Bruschi?
Monday, October 17, 2005
Almost Another Fantastic Comeback
Go on, admit it. You just knew that Tom Brady was going to lead them back for another fantastic come from behind win. I know I did. But don't go blaming Brady for this loss. He showed just how great he really is: on the road, in a hostile stadium, taking hit after hit, with barely any running game to speak of, with the defense knowing he was going to pass, with no Troy Brown, no starting left tackle and he STILL would have won the game had it not been for a drop. There should be no doubt who the best player in the NFL is.
So we have to cope with another tough loss. I believe the game would have had an entirely different outcome if it weren't for 4 plays.
The first play happened on the Pats 1st posession. They are driving and come up just short of the first down. Brady lines them up to go for it on 4th and we all know the play the Pats use on 4th and short and so did Denver. Brady gets to the line, the backfield empties, the TE's split wide, Brady's going to sneak for the first down. Only Denver knew it too and as soon as the Pats motioned to an empty backfield one of the Denver outside linebackers went running to the middle, right over the ball waiting for Brady. Brady called timeout and they kicked. Had they gotten a first down it may have meant 7 points instead of 3.
Second, Vinatieri missed a field goal wide right. Add those 3 points to the 4 from play one and you're only down by one.
Third, The bomb to Ashley Lelie. I know, what about the bomb to Rod Smith, right? Smith's caught the Pats off gaurd. The Lelie bomb was the EXACT SAME play as Smith's. Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me. Belichick/Mangini should have shown the secondary why/how they got beat so it wouldn't happen again. I know, what about Tatum Bell's 65 yard run, right? That's just what Bell does. He did it twice last week.
Fourth, David 'butter fingers' Givens dropping the pass on the final drive. Not only was he open, not only did Brady lay it out there perfectly, not only did he have 20 or 30 more yards to run, but he also took away the Pats momentum on that drive. The next play was the intentional grounding, which Givens and Branch ran the same route and one of them should have been where Brady threw it. Then it was 3rd and 20 and Brach dropped his ball, but at least he had some semblence of an excuse for dropping his. (And in my humble opinion that play should have been reviewed because it sure looked to me like he caught it, tucked it, got hit and then it came out AFTER he hit the ground.)
That's it. 4 plays.
Hat's off to Patrick Pass who played a terrific game.
Since Rodney Harrison has been with the Pats, their longest run allowed was 33 yards against San Fran last year when the backups were in. The next longest run was in 2003 and that was 19 yards. How good is Rodney Harrison?
I'm not going to tell you what you already know about Tedy Bruschi.
The trade deadline in the NFL is week 6 (tomorrow). Rumors are flying, I'll see what I can come up with.
Thanks for waiting for me to return, I'll try to make it worth your while.
Monday, October 03, 2005
Time Out
Patriots Report is going on vacation starting now. It's my 5th annivesary and we're going away. Apparently, the way the Pats are playing right now it's a good time to be away.
I get the strange feeling watching this years team. It kind of feels like 2002, the year after they won their first superbowl. Do you know what I mean? Where you have very high expectations, but for some reason that no one can put a finger on, they just don't win. Remember that 9-7 year? I do and I'm praying that this is not a repeat.
I don't know when I'll get to post again, maybe prior to the Bronco's game.
See you in Jamaica!
PS - Feel free to fill the comments log with your opinions of the Falcons game so I can get a feel for what happened. PLEASE?
Friday, September 30, 2005
It's Wilson's Time
Eugene Wilson has been on the verge of being one of the best Safeties in the league over the last season and a half. Now it's his time to emerge from Rodney's shadow and show that he IS one of the best. Most of the Pats game planning is based around Rodney Harrison, now for the first time in his career Wilson will have the gamplan based on him. Eugene at the line of scrimmage, in cover 2, over the TE, and even blitzing. (He has 0 sacks in his career.) This is when we find out just how good Eugene Wilson can be.
An early return for BRUSCHI?
In today's Herald there is a story on Tedy Bruschi and how hard it has been for him to stand on the sidelines and watch. "Bruschi aches to play. That much is evident just by looking into his eyes. And while he's stated that he won't be returning until the 2006 season, don't be surprised if he at least pursues all avenues toward making a swifter return. Word is, in fact, Bruschi is back seeking doctors, aaparently hoping to gather enough information and datat to see if it might be in the realm of possibility to come back sooner than he had planned."
He's NOT on IR. He's on the PUP and can return after week 6.
"It's interesting then when asked yesterday about the possibilty of returning this season, Brushi offered a flat, 'No comment.' Bruschi's agent, Brad Blank, wouldn't comment."
_____________________________________________
In his first interview with the media since the injury, Rodney Harrison says, "I know I can come back from this."
Amos Zereoue (FROM?) will wear #31. Don't expect to see too much of him this weekend though.
Marquiis Hill walked trough the locker room yesterday without any obvious sign of injury and NO crutches. - A VERY good sign.
Tom Brady has played in 22 games decided by 6 points or less. He is 20-2.
(Amos Zeroue is from The University of West Virginia.)
An early return for BRUSCHI?
In today's Herald there is a story on Tedy Bruschi and how hard it has been for him to stand on the sidelines and watch. "Bruschi aches to play. That much is evident just by looking into his eyes. And while he's stated that he won't be returning until the 2006 season, don't be surprised if he at least pursues all avenues toward making a swifter return. Word is, in fact, Bruschi is back seeking doctors, aaparently hoping to gather enough information and datat to see if it might be in the realm of possibility to come back sooner than he had planned."
He's NOT on IR. He's on the PUP and can return after week 6.
"It's interesting then when asked yesterday about the possibilty of returning this season, Brushi offered a flat, 'No comment.' Bruschi's agent, Brad Blank, wouldn't comment."
_____________________________________________
In his first interview with the media since the injury, Rodney Harrison says, "I know I can come back from this."
Amos Zereoue (FROM?) will wear #31. Don't expect to see too much of him this weekend though.
Marquiis Hill walked trough the locker room yesterday without any obvious sign of injury and NO crutches. - A VERY good sign.
Tom Brady has played in 22 games decided by 6 points or less. He is 20-2.
(Amos Zeroue is from The University of West Virginia.)
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Mid-Week Notes
The Patriots have made a bunch of roster moves over the last couple of days, here is the low-down as far as I can tell:
Released: Wesley Mallard LB & Andre Davis WR
(that means the 5th round pick they gave for Davis was a waste)
Injured Reserve: Rodney Harrison S
(He's out for the year, but there may be hope for Light who is not on IR)
Signed: Amos Zereoue RB & Mike Stone S
(Mruczkowski OL was re-signed to the practice squad)
The Zereoue signing was an indication that the injury o Faulk was pretty serious. Yesterday we learned that he will be out up to 8 weeks. Speaking of injuries, here is the Pats injury report for Sunday's game v. Chargers:
Kevin Faulk RB Out Foot
Matt Light T Out Leg
Tully Banta-Cain LB Questionable Knee
Randall Gay CB Questionable Ankle
Brandon Gorin T Questionable Thigh
Marquise Hill DE Questionable Ankle
James Sanders S Questionable Ankle
Duane Starks CB Questionable Thigh
Tyrone Poole CB Questionable Ankle
Chad Scott CB Questionable Shoulder
Tom Brady QB Probable Right Shoulder
Once again, the injuries to the secondary are a major concern, but maybe more so is the injury that no one talked about - Marquise Hill. It's hard to play the dominating 4-3 Defense without a sub on the D line. Hill provides quality depth at DL and his injury might force a 3-4 alignment this week unless the Pats want to play Mike Wright or Dan Klecko.
Here are some interesting numbers from Mike Reiss:
As if we weren't already convinced that Brady's the best
21 -- The number of receptions by Deion Branch through three games, second among all AFC receivers. Denver's Rod Smith is the AFC leader (22). Branch’s reception total is tied for fifth in the NFL.
31 -- Consecutive games played in which Deion Branch has recorded at least one reception.
78 -- The number of completions by Tom Brady through three games, leading the NFL. Philadelphia’s Donovan McNabb ranks second with 77 completions.
948 -- The number of passing yards for Tom Brady through three games, ranking second in the NFL. McNabb leads all passers with 964 yards.
43 -- The number of passing first downs earned by Tom Brady through three games, ranking third in the NFL. St. Louis’ Marc Bulger and McNabb are tied for the lead with 45 first downs.
4 -- The number of rushing touchdowns by Corey Dillon through three games, ranking second in the AFC behind San Diego’s LaDainian Tomlinson (6 touchdowns). Dillon’s total is tied for third in the NFL with Chicago’s Thomas Jones and Carolina’s Stephen Davis, behind Tomlinson (6) and Seattle’s Shawn Alexander (5).
11.0 -- The average number of yards per punt return for Tim Dwight (9 returns, 99 yards), ranking second in the AFC. As a team, the Patriots averaged 5.8 yards per return in 2004.
1 -- The ranking of the Patriots’ pass offense among all AFC teams. New England has averaged 300.3 passing yards per game this season. The Patriots rank second in the NFL, trailing only the Philadelphia Eagles.
1 -- Tom Brady’s ranking among AFC passers in yards (948), completions (78) and passing attempts (123).
65 -- Consecutive games in which Tom Brady has started at quarterback.
57 -- Consecutive games in which Matt Light has started at left tackle, a streak in jeopardy after he suffered an injury in Sunday’s game.
34 -- Consecutive field goals made by Adam Vinatieri of 47 yards or fewer
If any of your friends are into Sport, tell'em you heard it here at the Pats Report!
Released: Wesley Mallard LB & Andre Davis WR
(that means the 5th round pick they gave for Davis was a waste)
Injured Reserve: Rodney Harrison S
(He's out for the year, but there may be hope for Light who is not on IR)
Signed: Amos Zereoue RB & Mike Stone S
(Mruczkowski OL was re-signed to the practice squad)
The Zereoue signing was an indication that the injury o Faulk was pretty serious. Yesterday we learned that he will be out up to 8 weeks. Speaking of injuries, here is the Pats injury report for Sunday's game v. Chargers:
Kevin Faulk RB Out Foot
Matt Light T Out Leg
Tully Banta-Cain LB Questionable Knee
Randall Gay CB Questionable Ankle
Brandon Gorin T Questionable Thigh
Marquise Hill DE Questionable Ankle
James Sanders S Questionable Ankle
Duane Starks CB Questionable Thigh
Tyrone Poole CB Questionable Ankle
Chad Scott CB Questionable Shoulder
Tom Brady QB Probable Right Shoulder
Once again, the injuries to the secondary are a major concern, but maybe more so is the injury that no one talked about - Marquise Hill. It's hard to play the dominating 4-3 Defense without a sub on the D line. Hill provides quality depth at DL and his injury might force a 3-4 alignment this week unless the Pats want to play Mike Wright or Dan Klecko.
Here are some interesting numbers from Mike Reiss:
As if we weren't already convinced that Brady's the best
21 -- The number of receptions by Deion Branch through three games, second among all AFC receivers. Denver's Rod Smith is the AFC leader (22). Branch’s reception total is tied for fifth in the NFL.
31 -- Consecutive games played in which Deion Branch has recorded at least one reception.
78 -- The number of completions by Tom Brady through three games, leading the NFL. Philadelphia’s Donovan McNabb ranks second with 77 completions.
948 -- The number of passing yards for Tom Brady through three games, ranking second in the NFL. McNabb leads all passers with 964 yards.
43 -- The number of passing first downs earned by Tom Brady through three games, ranking third in the NFL. St. Louis’ Marc Bulger and McNabb are tied for the lead with 45 first downs.
4 -- The number of rushing touchdowns by Corey Dillon through three games, ranking second in the AFC behind San Diego’s LaDainian Tomlinson (6 touchdowns). Dillon’s total is tied for third in the NFL with Chicago’s Thomas Jones and Carolina’s Stephen Davis, behind Tomlinson (6) and Seattle’s Shawn Alexander (5).
11.0 -- The average number of yards per punt return for Tim Dwight (9 returns, 99 yards), ranking second in the AFC. As a team, the Patriots averaged 5.8 yards per return in 2004.
1 -- The ranking of the Patriots’ pass offense among all AFC teams. New England has averaged 300.3 passing yards per game this season. The Patriots rank second in the NFL, trailing only the Philadelphia Eagles.
1 -- Tom Brady’s ranking among AFC passers in yards (948), completions (78) and passing attempts (123).
65 -- Consecutive games in which Tom Brady has started at quarterback.
57 -- Consecutive games in which Matt Light has started at left tackle, a streak in jeopardy after he suffered an injury in Sunday’s game.
34 -- Consecutive field goals made by Adam Vinatieri of 47 yards or fewer
If any of your friends are into Sport, tell'em you heard it here at the Pats Report!
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
That's More Like It!
The Patriots once again proved why they are the defending champs and the team to beat this year with their road victory in Pittsburgh. The Offense got the job done and the Defense was dominating. Pittsburgh was only 3-13 on 3rd down conversions, gained only 79 yards rushing, Rhoethlisberger was only 12 for 28 passing (there goes the perfect QB rating), had a grand total of 269 yards. And if you take away the 85 yard play, Pittsburgh gained less than 200!
This is how rediculous the QB rating system is. It is OBVIOUS to anyone who watched this week's game that Brady is by far the better QB. Not according to the QB rating system. Brady scored a 92.7 for Sunday and Roethlisberger a 93.7 - Meaningless statistic.
Tom Brady 12-12 in the fourth quarter on the road vs Blitzburgh, he's the best.
I'd like to have a moment of silence for the loss of Rodney Harrison. Rodney was a true leader, the epitome of what a football player should be and he will be missed. Word is that this injury will pretty much end his career. (torn ACL, MCL and PCL) His knee is worse than mine!
Matt Light MAY return late in the season, and the rookies did well filling in for him with the exception of the one play. However, Pitt did not have an entire week to gameplan to confuse the rookies with blitzes and schemes - San Diego does.
This weeks ESPN power rankings:
1 Colts (why?)
2 Patriots (why?)
3 Philly (they love mcnabb/owens)
4 Cincinnati (we'll see how long that lasts)
5 Pittsburgh (they deserve it!)
Maybe I WILL be able to post afterall!!!!!!!
This is how rediculous the QB rating system is. It is OBVIOUS to anyone who watched this week's game that Brady is by far the better QB. Not according to the QB rating system. Brady scored a 92.7 for Sunday and Roethlisberger a 93.7 - Meaningless statistic.
Tom Brady 12-12 in the fourth quarter on the road vs Blitzburgh, he's the best.
I'd like to have a moment of silence for the loss of Rodney Harrison. Rodney was a true leader, the epitome of what a football player should be and he will be missed. Word is that this injury will pretty much end his career. (torn ACL, MCL and PCL) His knee is worse than mine!
Matt Light MAY return late in the season, and the rookies did well filling in for him with the exception of the one play. However, Pitt did not have an entire week to gameplan to confuse the rookies with blitzes and schemes - San Diego does.
This weeks ESPN power rankings:
1 Colts (why?)
2 Patriots (why?)
3 Philly (they love mcnabb/owens)
4 Cincinnati (we'll see how long that lasts)
5 Pittsburgh (they deserve it!)
Maybe I WILL be able to post afterall!!!!!!!
Friday, September 23, 2005
Pre Game Stats, Notes, Picks
Here's this week's injury list:
PATS:Banta-Cain, Tully LB Questionable Knee Davis, Andre' WR Questionable Foot Gay, Randall CB Questionable Ankle Gorin, Brandon T Questionable Thigh Green, Jarvis DE Questionable Shoulder Johnson, Bethel WR Questionable Thigh Miller, Josh P Questionable Shoulder Neal, Steve G Questionable Back Poole, Tyrone CB Questionable Ankle Sanders, James S Questionable Ankle Scott, Chad CB Questionable Shoulder Starks, Duane CB Questionable Thigh Brady, Tom QB Probable
STEELERS:Bettis, Jerome RB Doubtful Calf McFadden, Bryant CB Questionable Calf Morey, Sean WR Questionable Hamstring Staley, Duce RB Questionable Knee Iwuoma, Chidi CB Probable Shoulder Roethlisberger, Ben QB Probable Back Townsend, Deshea CB Probable Foot
Corey Dillon has been asked if he's frustrated with the running game thusfar. His response was that he's too old to get frustrated and the media shouldn't look for him to erupt with anger over it any time soon.
The Pats had former Eagle CB Bobby Taylor in for a tryout this week but have not signed him.
On that note, it has been speculated that Troy Brown has been getting reps with the D this week because there are only 3 healthy CB's going into this week's game. Brown is just 6 catches shy of passing Ben Coates for 2nd all time on the Pats.
Congrats to Tom Brady who threw his 100th career TD in last weeks loss.
Pittsburgh leads the league in rushing attempts with 73, then Bengals & Bucs with 71 and 4th is the Chiefs at 70. the Pats are in the lower echelon in rush attempts with only 47.
The onus for this week will be on the D-Line to stop the run if the Pats are to have any chance at winning. I think that's a good thing because the D Line is the strength of this team.
ESPN's fan poll for who wins this week's game: Pitt 72% NE 28%
The ESPN 'experts' are just about 50/50 picking this weeks game.
The Pats will be trying to avoid their first back to back losses in 35 games.
The Steelers are favored by 3.5
I will NOT be playing Willie Parker on my fantasy team this week against the Pats.
I hope I'm wrong, but I see the Steelers winning this one 13-10.
PATS:Banta-Cain, Tully LB Questionable Knee Davis, Andre' WR Questionable Foot Gay, Randall CB Questionable Ankle Gorin, Brandon T Questionable Thigh Green, Jarvis DE Questionable Shoulder Johnson, Bethel WR Questionable Thigh Miller, Josh P Questionable Shoulder Neal, Steve G Questionable Back Poole, Tyrone CB Questionable Ankle Sanders, James S Questionable Ankle Scott, Chad CB Questionable Shoulder Starks, Duane CB Questionable Thigh Brady, Tom QB Probable
STEELERS:Bettis, Jerome RB Doubtful Calf McFadden, Bryant CB Questionable Calf Morey, Sean WR Questionable Hamstring Staley, Duce RB Questionable Knee Iwuoma, Chidi CB Probable Shoulder Roethlisberger, Ben QB Probable Back Townsend, Deshea CB Probable Foot
Corey Dillon has been asked if he's frustrated with the running game thusfar. His response was that he's too old to get frustrated and the media shouldn't look for him to erupt with anger over it any time soon.
The Pats had former Eagle CB Bobby Taylor in for a tryout this week but have not signed him.
On that note, it has been speculated that Troy Brown has been getting reps with the D this week because there are only 3 healthy CB's going into this week's game. Brown is just 6 catches shy of passing Ben Coates for 2nd all time on the Pats.
Congrats to Tom Brady who threw his 100th career TD in last weeks loss.
Pittsburgh leads the league in rushing attempts with 73, then Bengals & Bucs with 71 and 4th is the Chiefs at 70. the Pats are in the lower echelon in rush attempts with only 47.
The onus for this week will be on the D-Line to stop the run if the Pats are to have any chance at winning. I think that's a good thing because the D Line is the strength of this team.
ESPN's fan poll for who wins this week's game: Pitt 72% NE 28%
The ESPN 'experts' are just about 50/50 picking this weeks game.
The Pats will be trying to avoid their first back to back losses in 35 games.
The Steelers are favored by 3.5
I will NOT be playing Willie Parker on my fantasy team this week against the Pats.
I hope I'm wrong, but I see the Steelers winning this one 13-10.
Thursday, September 22, 2005
The Perfect Roethlesberger?
The question was asked how Big Ben could have a perfect QB rating after completing 8 of 10 passing. Bear with me, here goes:
Take the completion % minus 30.
multiply by .05 to come up with 'A'
Take yds per attempt minus 3.
multiply by .25 to come up with 'B'
Take the touchdown %
multiply by .2 to come up with 'C'
Take 2.375 and subtract (interception % multiplied by .25)
to come up with 'D'
add A+B+C+D and divide by 6 then multiply by 100 and you'll find your answer.
It's that simple.
Take the completion % minus 30.
multiply by .05 to come up with 'A'
Take yds per attempt minus 3.
multiply by .25 to come up with 'B'
Take the touchdown %
multiply by .2 to come up with 'C'
Take 2.375 and subtract (interception % multiplied by .25)
to come up with 'D'
add A+B+C+D and divide by 6 then multiply by 100 and you'll find your answer.
It's that simple.
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
Mid-Week Notes
If anyone is still worried about the Pats and this week's game in particular, this blog is for you.
Over the last 2 seasons the Pats have lost 4 times. In the games immediately following a loss, they are 4-0. Brady had 10 TD's and only 1 interception in those games. As a team, here is what the Pats have done the week after the last four losses:
W 31-10 at Philadelphia
W 38-30 home vs Tennessee
W 40-22 at St Louis
W 23-7 at New York Jets
Pretty impressive, but if that's not enough evidence for you going into the Pittsburgh game here's one more thing: Ben Roethlesberger. The 'experts' are talking about how comfortable he looks in the pocket and that he's 15-0 as a starter in the regular season. He's 2-0 this year with a rediculous QB rating near perfect (152 or something like that). The REAL stats to look at are what he's had to do to win and that's hand the ball off. The Steelers have run 106 offensive plays in 2 games this season. They RAN 73 times and threw only 33 times. In the second half, Roethlesberger has thrown only 8 times in both games combined! Simply put, he hasn't been put in any type of situation to have to make a play to win. When the Pats put him in that situation in last years AFC championship game, he threw 3 picks. They must simply stop the Pittsburgh ground game to put the game in Big Ben's hands.
*Belichick uncharacteristically criticized the NFl during his press conference on Tuesday when
asked about his non-challenge at the goal line. Belichick said it would be nice if the league had
cameras on the goal line specifically for reviews of TD's. The replay is subject to whatever
camera angle the network has of the goal line, in most cases 1-2yards past of the goal line so when we all watched the replay, it was not at the same angle as the line judge, essentially making any review of the play difficult or inconclusive.
*ESPN's power rankings are out for week 3. Colts, Steelers, Eagles then Pats 4th. Carolina is
way down at #9. Go figure.
*Randall Gay was seen on crutches in the locker room on Tuesday. He was not putting ANY
weight on his ankle.
*After all the talk about the 3-4 or 4-3 defensive alignment, Belichick played several snaps in
what could be called a 3-3: 3 Dline, 3 LB's with Guss Scott in as the third safety with Rodney
Harrison up at the line of scrimmage. It will be very interesting to see how they attempt to
handle Pitt's running game.
* Onus on the O-Line. The Pats offensive line has been described as nervous, skittish and weak
by writers this week. It was pointed out that in addition to the false start penalties, they have
gotten absolutely NO push at the line of scrimmage. As a matter of fact, on most run plays
they have been pushed back 2-3 yards. No wonder Dillon looks like Antwan Smith. The O-Line
play will have to improve if the Pats are to win this week. Perhaps the Pats can come out in 4
or 5 reciever sets, spread out the D, pass the ball up and down the field and then sneak in a run
here or there. It worked 2 years ago against Pitt in the season opener.
Over the last 2 seasons the Pats have lost 4 times. In the games immediately following a loss, they are 4-0. Brady had 10 TD's and only 1 interception in those games. As a team, here is what the Pats have done the week after the last four losses:
W 31-10 at Philadelphia
W 38-30 home vs Tennessee
W 40-22 at St Louis
W 23-7 at New York Jets
Pretty impressive, but if that's not enough evidence for you going into the Pittsburgh game here's one more thing: Ben Roethlesberger. The 'experts' are talking about how comfortable he looks in the pocket and that he's 15-0 as a starter in the regular season. He's 2-0 this year with a rediculous QB rating near perfect (152 or something like that). The REAL stats to look at are what he's had to do to win and that's hand the ball off. The Steelers have run 106 offensive plays in 2 games this season. They RAN 73 times and threw only 33 times. In the second half, Roethlesberger has thrown only 8 times in both games combined! Simply put, he hasn't been put in any type of situation to have to make a play to win. When the Pats put him in that situation in last years AFC championship game, he threw 3 picks. They must simply stop the Pittsburgh ground game to put the game in Big Ben's hands.
*Belichick uncharacteristically criticized the NFl during his press conference on Tuesday when
asked about his non-challenge at the goal line. Belichick said it would be nice if the league had
cameras on the goal line specifically for reviews of TD's. The replay is subject to whatever
camera angle the network has of the goal line, in most cases 1-2yards past of the goal line so when we all watched the replay, it was not at the same angle as the line judge, essentially making any review of the play difficult or inconclusive.
*ESPN's power rankings are out for week 3. Colts, Steelers, Eagles then Pats 4th. Carolina is
way down at #9. Go figure.
*Randall Gay was seen on crutches in the locker room on Tuesday. He was not putting ANY
weight on his ankle.
*After all the talk about the 3-4 or 4-3 defensive alignment, Belichick played several snaps in
what could be called a 3-3: 3 Dline, 3 LB's with Guss Scott in as the third safety with Rodney
Harrison up at the line of scrimmage. It will be very interesting to see how they attempt to
handle Pitt's running game.
* Onus on the O-Line. The Pats offensive line has been described as nervous, skittish and weak
by writers this week. It was pointed out that in addition to the false start penalties, they have
gotten absolutely NO push at the line of scrimmage. As a matter of fact, on most run plays
they have been pushed back 2-3 yards. No wonder Dillon looks like Antwan Smith. The O-Line
play will have to improve if the Pats are to win this week. Perhaps the Pats can come out in 4
or 5 reciever sets, spread out the D, pass the ball up and down the field and then sneak in a run
here or there. It worked 2 years ago against Pitt in the season opener.
Monday, September 19, 2005
The beginning of the end?
Come on now, the sky is NOT falling. This is NOT the beginning of the end of the Pats Dynasty. They had a stinker. It happens. YES it is frustrating as all hell to watch. Don't feel bad for the Pats, feel bad for their next opponenet, the Steelers. They will feel the wrath of the Patriots embarrasing loss.
Here is how one paper described Sunday's game:
"They were flagged six times for false starts. They committed three turnovers. They got gashed on special teams and were humiliated in the running game. Tom Brady wasn't good. The coaching staff was surprisingly hesitant with its replay challenges and tentative with its play-calling."
That pretty much sums it up, though I don't think the Defense has any blame to bear. Delhomme was under 50% passing, the Panthers averaged under 3 yards per carry and their only receiver had no scores. Brady was awful and Dillon looked like Antwan Smith. Even Branch, who didn't drop a ball all season last year, had 2 drops. Graham and Watson failed to get open where Conwell did a week ago, and whenthey did, Brady made inaccurate throws.
Some frightning stats for the season so far:
* The Patriots’ kickoff coverage ranks 22nd in the NFL, allowing opponents an average drive start of the 29 yard line (actual average 28.9).
* The Patriots rank last in the NFL in average yards per rushing attempt –- 2.38 yards per carry. The team is 29th in rushing yards per game –- 56 per outing.
* The Patriots rank 25th in the NFL in third-down efficiency on offense –- 10 for 30.
Friday, September 16, 2005
Carolina here we come...
The Carolina Panthers were picked by SI to win the superbowl this year. If they plan on living up to that standard, this becomes a must win. It would be nearly impossible to get to and win the superbowl after an 0-2 start. Both losses would also be home losses. As the Pats know, it IS possible to start 0-2 and win it all. I'm sure that Carolina will come out flying, clawing and scratching, cheating, holding, whatever it takes to avoid an 0-2 start. These teams already have a chip on their shoulder with the other. They are 2 of the more physical teams in the league, so Sunday's game should be the equivilent of two school yard bullies fighting to be king of the playground.
Expert picks, as you know, don't really mean much but it might make you feel more comfortable about the game to hear them. All of the ESPN analysts that have picked so far have picked the Pats. In their fan poll, 77% of voters pick the Pats. Many of the local media however, (Tom Curran and Pete Sheppard for example) have this one chalked up as a Patriots loss.
Strategy-wise, most feel that Belichick will look to shut down the Carolina running game and force Delhomme to pass. He really only has one weapon (Steve Smith) in the passing game and he has been known to throw some interceptions. It will be interesting to see if Belichick goes back (or sticks with) the 4-3 defense. (Traditional wisdom is that it is easier to stop the run in a 4-3.) However, Belichick may not have a choice and may be forced to use the 3-4 exclusively due to injury. Jarvis Green and Seymour money are both on the injured list as questionable. Green has had a non-contact, red jersey on during practices, but Seymour has been seen practicing. If one or both cannot play then Belichick might have to go with the 3-4.
One of my 'players to watch' will be on the field this week for Carolina, WR Keary Colbert.
The Patriots are favored by 2.5 points. They are 28-8-2 over the last two seasons against the spread. Don't bet against the Pats.
I pick the Pats to win this one by the same score as they did last week, 30-20.
Oh, and don't forget to start Watson and/or Graham for your fantasy team this week.
Expert picks, as you know, don't really mean much but it might make you feel more comfortable about the game to hear them. All of the ESPN analysts that have picked so far have picked the Pats. In their fan poll, 77% of voters pick the Pats. Many of the local media however, (Tom Curran and Pete Sheppard for example) have this one chalked up as a Patriots loss.
Strategy-wise, most feel that Belichick will look to shut down the Carolina running game and force Delhomme to pass. He really only has one weapon (Steve Smith) in the passing game and he has been known to throw some interceptions. It will be interesting to see if Belichick goes back (or sticks with) the 4-3 defense. (Traditional wisdom is that it is easier to stop the run in a 4-3.) However, Belichick may not have a choice and may be forced to use the 3-4 exclusively due to injury. Jarvis Green and Seymour money are both on the injured list as questionable. Green has had a non-contact, red jersey on during practices, but Seymour has been seen practicing. If one or both cannot play then Belichick might have to go with the 3-4.
One of my 'players to watch' will be on the field this week for Carolina, WR Keary Colbert.
The Patriots are favored by 2.5 points. They are 28-8-2 over the last two seasons against the spread. Don't bet against the Pats.
I pick the Pats to win this one by the same score as they did last week, 30-20.
Oh, and don't forget to start Watson and/or Graham for your fantasy team this week.
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Mid-week Notes..
Thank Pioli for the depth he has accumulated at Cornerback. Evidently, Poole and Scott have not practiced yet this week with undisclosed injuries. That leaves Gay and Samuel to start and we may finally get to see Starks for the first time this week.
Watch for the Patriots to exploit these two Carolina weaknesses from week 1. First, rookie safety Thomas Davis who tried to cover TE Ernie Conwell. Conwell had 6 catches for 71yds. Conwell is not nearly the threat that Watson/Graham provide. Second, the Saints LT made the first start of his career last week. Watch for blitzes to come from Delhomme's blind side.
Rodney Bailey has signed with the Seattle Seahawks.
Troy Brown was seen on the Marshall sideline during their Saturday game.
Vince Wilfork's interception has been officially changed to a fumble recovery.
14 Patriots that started SB38 are expected to play Sunday
13 Panthers that started SB 38 are expected to play Sunday
Panthers DT Kris Jenkins tore his ACL in the opener and will miss his second straight season.
ESPN's week 2 power rankings came out and the Patriots remain #1 with the Colts #2.
Watch for the Patriots to exploit these two Carolina weaknesses from week 1. First, rookie safety Thomas Davis who tried to cover TE Ernie Conwell. Conwell had 6 catches for 71yds. Conwell is not nearly the threat that Watson/Graham provide. Second, the Saints LT made the first start of his career last week. Watch for blitzes to come from Delhomme's blind side.
Rodney Bailey has signed with the Seattle Seahawks.
Troy Brown was seen on the Marshall sideline during their Saturday game.
Vince Wilfork's interception has been officially changed to a fumble recovery.
14 Patriots that started SB38 are expected to play Sunday
13 Panthers that started SB 38 are expected to play Sunday
Panthers DT Kris Jenkins tore his ACL in the opener and will miss his second straight season.
ESPN's week 2 power rankings came out and the Patriots remain #1 with the Colts #2.
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Belichick, Dillon/Brady, Ty Poole?
As is usual with Belichick, he didn't give away anything during his 'day after the game' press conference. He did admit that they had been up all night looking at the film. He had praise for the Raiders saying that they are a good football team. He said that he's happy to have a win, thought the Pats did a good job with field position and was happy that they capitalized on Wilfork's interception.
His criticism came in regard to the special teams when he said that their are many high school teams that can snap and kick a ball without having it blocked.
Belichick also stayed true to form when talking about the next opponent, the Carolina Panthers. He said they were probably the best team in the NFC if not all of football in the second half of the season last year despite injuries. (they went 7-1) I'm sure the Panthers will be out to avenge their superbowl loss.
Much has been made about the Brady yelling at Dillon episode on the sidelines. There is no story here except that Brady is the best leader in football. Dillon was getting frustrated at the lack of running room so Brady essentially told him to suck it up and put it behind him because the team is going to need him. Brady and Dillon have each come out and said they get along fine and this is a non-issue.
Get ready for the most rediculous story line of the season this week: Ty Poole and Steve Smith in 'spitgate.' Steve Smith has bee telling anyone that will listen that Poole spit at him during the superbowl TWO YEARS AGO!!! I'm sure there will be a plethora of stories about it this week.
Friday, September 09, 2005
One down, 18 to go.
It's one win down and 18 to go on the Patiots quest for a perfect 19-0 season. No one in the organization will tell you that their goal is to go undefeated, but I will. 3 out of 4 superbowls in an era where the league tries as hard as it can to have 32 teams go 8-8 and still not considered the best team of all time. You've got to think that Belichick, Brady, Harrison and co have their sights on the ultimate goal, an undefeated season. To cap off a 4th superbowl in 5 years by going undefeated would solidify them as immortals in football history. They'll have trophy's named after them, they'll get to the hall of fame, they'll be able to tell their grandkids that they were the best that ever was. And they'll be no more nay-sayers. Just my opinion, but what else is there for them to accomplish, how else would they find motivation if not in a perfect season?
Not that they were perfect on Thursday night, but in true Patriot fashion they did enough to win. By the middle of the third quarter the nation new who was the better team, the Pats dominated. Here's the stats:
Brady was 24 of 38 for 306yds and 2 TD's
Dillon had 23 carries for only 63 yards.
Keep in mind that Oakland defensive coordinator Rob Ryan was an
assistant with the Pats as recently as 2 years ago. True to the
Belichick tradition, Ryan 'took away' one of the Pats weapons. They
overplayed the run with the thought that they were going to make
Brady beat them through the air.
Branch had 7 catches for 99yds and a TD
Troy Brown quietly had a nice game with 6 catches for 51yds.
On Defense, the game really turned around once the Pats switched from the 3-4 to the 4-3. Many wonder, with the obvious strength of this team being the D Line, why Belichick insists on using a 3-4 scheme. The play of the game had to be Wilfork's interception. Not only was it a great play, but the Pats also scored on the ensuing posession and that was the end of the Raiders. If I'd have told you that the team leader in interceptions after week one was going to be Wilfork, you'd have stopped reading this blog.
The Raiders were a feeble 4-13 on third down conversions. The Pats weren't much better, only converting on 6 of 16 3rd downs. That will have to improve at Carolina next week.
Some random game notes:
The win was Belichicks 100th as a head coach dating back to the Browns.
Warren Sapp on Tom Brady, "We've got to prerssure him and get him on the ground and try to get the ball. He's special. I'll give him that. He's special."
Brady's 300 yd performance marks only the 9th time in his career that he's gone over 300yds.
The Patriots are now 25-3 (.893) all-time at Gillette Stadium.
Vince Wilfork talks about his interception: “We had to get the quarterback off of his spot. Once I saw Jarvis make a few moves inside, the ball popped out as he tried to throw it and it was right over one of his offensive linemen’s should pads. So I had to reach over his shoulder pads and get it. My eyes got big. So big. I think that play gave our defense a boost. It especially gave me a boost.”
PK Sam has been signed to the practice squad.
Tomorrow I'll post some thoughts from Belichick's Monday press conference.
Thursday, September 08, 2005
Life Beckons...
Sorry to disappoint blog readers, but I've had 'one of those days' and there will be no game preview today. I'm sure I'll have a lot to BLOG about after the game so please stay tuned.
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
NOTES
Tomorrow is finally gameday, I will post you a thorough preview then. For now here are some things I've seen or heard in the last 24 hours.
DONTATE?
I never want to mix my beliefs into this BLOG, however I think I can tie this together nicely. If you are like me, you'd like to give support to victims of hurricane Katrina. But I have a hard time donating to some of these charity corporations whose CEO's make the big bucks. For example, The Red Cross paid their top person $651,957 in 2004. The Patriots have started their own Katrina relief fund which can be found at
http://special.patriots.com/Offers/index.cfm?UUID=HurricaneKatrinaReliefFundDonations92
One hundred percent of the proceeds will go directly to non-profit organizations directly supporting hurricane relief efforts. Yeah, so some of it may end up in the hands of a CEO, but I'd rather give it through the Patriots and think that 100% went to help people.
INJURY REPORT
The injury report came out for tomorrow night's game vs. the Raiders. Surprise surprise, Tom Brady is on the injury list for the 17th straight regular season game due to the 'right shoulder' problem. He is listed as probable to go tomorrow night. I don't understand what Belichick is trying to accomplish by listing Brady as probable for every game. It's not like he's missed practice or game action. As a matte of fact Brady has said this is the best he's felt going into a season since his rookie year.
Sports Illustrated Picks the Super Bowl Winner
Peter King of SI has his NFL season picks in this weeks issue. Low and behold, he agrees with this humble blogger that the Patriots will defeat the Vikings in super bowl XL. The issue also gives the concensus picks of all of the SI writers. As a whole, they have Carolina over Indy to win it all. Idiots.
The fact that Indy has an EASY schedule leads most pundits to believe they'll have the best record in the AFC and finally host the Pats for the right to go to SB XL. SI thinks the Pats can't beat Indy at Indy and justifies their pick that way.
Who's call is it anyway?
Typically the Patriots have their middle line backer call the plays in the huddle and then call out all the adjustments at the line of scrimmage. Watch closely tomorrow and you'll see weak side linbacker Monty Beisel calling the plays in the huddle and Chad Brown making the adjustment calls. It's a way to ease them both into the system by sharing the responsibilities.
No Corner
We still have no idea who will be the starting cornerbacks for the season opener. Gay and Samuel were tops in the beginning of camp. Poole and Gay started the garbage game vs the Giants. Scott and Samuel started the only game this preseason that the Pats 'tried' to win, vs Green Bay. Starks hasn't seen much action and is 'questionable' for the opener. Consensus seems to be that Poole has been the best corner so far, so he'll probably start. Samuel is a very good cover guy against 'slot' recievers which would lead you to believe he won't start, but be the nickel. However, Gay had a yellow scout team jersey tucked in his locker which leads you to believe he was on the scout team rather than with the starters. Maybe it's all a ploy to prevent the Raiders from gameplanning Moss to go against a particular corner.
Mankins In
Logan Mankins will get the start at Left Gaurd in his first NFL game.
Harrison is in mid-season form
Rodney Harrison was asked about playing against Randy Moss. True to Patriot fashion, he lavished Moss with praise. Then true to Rodney, he said, "Nobody thinks we can do it (cover Moss)" That usually seems to be all the motivation he needs.
Monday, September 05, 2005
Offensive Players Ready for a Breakout Season.
Today we will look at some players that I believe or have read somewhere, will have a good offensive season for their perspective teams. I'm going to try to stay away from the obvious choices and try to stick with the sleepers. We'll go position by position and in no particular order.
Wide Receiver:
Laverneus Coles- He had his best season with the Jets and Chad Pennington. I see no
reason why their chemistry won't be back this year. Also, the Jets have a new,
verticle passing attack that should bode well for Coles. The only issue here is
Pennington's health.
Michael Jenkins- With the release of Peerless Price, he will be the #1 guy in Atlanta. As a
rookie last season he started slowly but finished strong. I find it hard to beleive that
Atlanta would have released Price if they weren't comfortable with Jenkins. He
was the go to guy for a very good Ohio St team two years ago and proved that he
can handle it. He's big, (6'6") so he'll be a red zone target.
Keary Colbert- He is also in his second year and coming out of college he was unheralded due
to the fact that he played #2 WR at USC behind Mike Williams. Colbert will play a
HUGE part in Carolina's offense with the departure of Muhammed to Chicago. This
kid can play and Carolina may not miss Muhammed because of him.
Tight End:
Dallas Clark- Marcus Pollard moved on to Detriot so he'll be th only legit threat at TE for
Peyton Manning and the Colts.
Chris Baker- WHO? Chris Baker. Not that I think the Jets are going to be good, but he's the
guy who has won the starting job at TE. The Jets offensive coordinator is Mike
Heimerdinger from the Titans. Ever heard of Frank Wycheck? Heimerdinger loves
to use his tight ends and Baker will benefit from it. How's THAT for a sleeper?
Jermaine Wiggins- Wiggins emerged as a real threat during the second half of the season last
year. Culpepper has faith in his abilities and isn't afraid to throw him the ball. I'm
pretty sure that there will be more balls to catch in Minnesota now that Moss is gone.
Running Back:
There is not a lot to choose from here. Everyone is aware of the Running backs in this league,
so there really shouldn't be any surprises. I'll try to pick a couple any way.
Chester Taylor- MAY have played himself into the lineup in front of Jamal Lewis this
preseason. If Lewis is any trouble, Taylor will get the nod and be a star.
Willie Parker- He is a true sleeper. With Staley and Bettis hurt this preseason, Parker beat
out the other backups with an astounding 10.2 yds per carry. He will start at least
the first two games of the regular season, so he'll have a chance to remain the starter.
LaMont Jordan- I think he's a pretty obvious pick, but regardless I always liked him with the
Jets and felt that, at times, he outplayed Curtis Martin. With the deep passing game
that Moss brings to Oakland, safeties can't cheat up so Jordan will see a lot of 6 and
7 man fronts and therefore lots of daylight.
Quarterback:
Michael Vick- Not that this is a sleeper by any means and it's not that I think that this is his break out year. I feel the need to mention him because this will be his make or break
season. Philadelphia showed the league how to defend Vick in the playoffs last
year. Every team has the game tape. Philly simply held the pocket and never tried
to sack Vick. There were NO running lanes for him to escape, making him a pocket
passer. That's what he's going to face ALL season long. If he doesn't prove that he
IS a pocket passer, it will be a very long, losing season for the Falcons. I don't believe
that he can do it, but for the good of the game I hope he will.
Curt Warner- Let's see, when the Rams were the greatest show on turf and the best team in
the league the QB was Warner. They had a trio of fast, gifted recievers. That had an
elusive back that could catch the ball out of the backfield. They had a verticle passing
game. Seems to me likeArizona has all that in place this year. With all those pieces
around him again, I'm predicting Pro Bowl.
Jake Delhomme- The running backs are healthy, Steve Smith is healthy and the emergence
of Keary Colbert should make for a career year for Delhomme.
Some rookies that I like:
JJ Arrington - 2nd round pick by the Cardinals out of Cal. He's the elusive, shifty back that can
catch the ball out of the backfield from Warner. He hasn't yet emerged as the full time back,
but keep an eye on him.
Ronnie Brown - His hold out and the fact that Miami is aweful won't help him, but he will be the
starter as soon as he learns the offense. I felt like he was by far the best back in the draft. If
not this season, in the near future he'll be one of the top 2-3 backs in the league.
Reggie Brown - The Eagles are very happy with thier speedster from Georgia. Let's face it,
they are extremely thin at WR and sooner than later Owens will be out with his groin again.
By the end of the season Brown might be McNabb's #1 receiver.
Braylon Edwards - OK I admit it, this pick may be skewed a little because I'm such a huge
Michigan fan. Trent Dilfer won a superbowl, he can still throw and he has no one else to
throw to in Cleveland. While Edwards may drop an occassional ball, he makes the bigtime,
game breaking catch.
Tell your fantasy league you heard it here!
Wide Receiver:
Laverneus Coles- He had his best season with the Jets and Chad Pennington. I see no
reason why their chemistry won't be back this year. Also, the Jets have a new,
verticle passing attack that should bode well for Coles. The only issue here is
Pennington's health.
Michael Jenkins- With the release of Peerless Price, he will be the #1 guy in Atlanta. As a
rookie last season he started slowly but finished strong. I find it hard to beleive that
Atlanta would have released Price if they weren't comfortable with Jenkins. He
was the go to guy for a very good Ohio St team two years ago and proved that he
can handle it. He's big, (6'6") so he'll be a red zone target.
Keary Colbert- He is also in his second year and coming out of college he was unheralded due
to the fact that he played #2 WR at USC behind Mike Williams. Colbert will play a
HUGE part in Carolina's offense with the departure of Muhammed to Chicago. This
kid can play and Carolina may not miss Muhammed because of him.
Tight End:
Dallas Clark- Marcus Pollard moved on to Detriot so he'll be th only legit threat at TE for
Peyton Manning and the Colts.
Chris Baker- WHO? Chris Baker. Not that I think the Jets are going to be good, but he's the
guy who has won the starting job at TE. The Jets offensive coordinator is Mike
Heimerdinger from the Titans. Ever heard of Frank Wycheck? Heimerdinger loves
to use his tight ends and Baker will benefit from it. How's THAT for a sleeper?
Jermaine Wiggins- Wiggins emerged as a real threat during the second half of the season last
year. Culpepper has faith in his abilities and isn't afraid to throw him the ball. I'm
pretty sure that there will be more balls to catch in Minnesota now that Moss is gone.
Running Back:
There is not a lot to choose from here. Everyone is aware of the Running backs in this league,
so there really shouldn't be any surprises. I'll try to pick a couple any way.
Chester Taylor- MAY have played himself into the lineup in front of Jamal Lewis this
preseason. If Lewis is any trouble, Taylor will get the nod and be a star.
Willie Parker- He is a true sleeper. With Staley and Bettis hurt this preseason, Parker beat
out the other backups with an astounding 10.2 yds per carry. He will start at least
the first two games of the regular season, so he'll have a chance to remain the starter.
LaMont Jordan- I think he's a pretty obvious pick, but regardless I always liked him with the
Jets and felt that, at times, he outplayed Curtis Martin. With the deep passing game
that Moss brings to Oakland, safeties can't cheat up so Jordan will see a lot of 6 and
7 man fronts and therefore lots of daylight.
Quarterback:
Michael Vick- Not that this is a sleeper by any means and it's not that I think that this is his break out year. I feel the need to mention him because this will be his make or break
season. Philadelphia showed the league how to defend Vick in the playoffs last
year. Every team has the game tape. Philly simply held the pocket and never tried
to sack Vick. There were NO running lanes for him to escape, making him a pocket
passer. That's what he's going to face ALL season long. If he doesn't prove that he
IS a pocket passer, it will be a very long, losing season for the Falcons. I don't believe
that he can do it, but for the good of the game I hope he will.
Curt Warner- Let's see, when the Rams were the greatest show on turf and the best team in
the league the QB was Warner. They had a trio of fast, gifted recievers. That had an
elusive back that could catch the ball out of the backfield. They had a verticle passing
game. Seems to me likeArizona has all that in place this year. With all those pieces
around him again, I'm predicting Pro Bowl.
Jake Delhomme- The running backs are healthy, Steve Smith is healthy and the emergence
of Keary Colbert should make for a career year for Delhomme.
Some rookies that I like:
JJ Arrington - 2nd round pick by the Cardinals out of Cal. He's the elusive, shifty back that can
catch the ball out of the backfield from Warner. He hasn't yet emerged as the full time back,
but keep an eye on him.
Ronnie Brown - His hold out and the fact that Miami is aweful won't help him, but he will be the
starter as soon as he learns the offense. I felt like he was by far the best back in the draft. If
not this season, in the near future he'll be one of the top 2-3 backs in the league.
Reggie Brown - The Eagles are very happy with thier speedster from Georgia. Let's face it,
they are extremely thin at WR and sooner than later Owens will be out with his groin again.
By the end of the season Brown might be McNabb's #1 receiver.
Braylon Edwards - OK I admit it, this pick may be skewed a little because I'm such a huge
Michigan fan. Trent Dilfer won a superbowl, he can still throw and he has no one else to
throw to in Cleveland. While Edwards may drop an occassional ball, he makes the bigtime,
game breaking catch.
Tell your fantasy league you heard it here!
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