Awe....the Denver Broncos!
As it currently stands, the Pats will host the Denver Broncos in the wild card round of the playoffs. More about that to come, but first, let's talk about the big win on Sunday.
I felt like the team did a great job in 2 phases of the game and as they say, two out of three ain't bad. First, the offense did a pretty good job. Obviously the gameplan was to spread out the Jags big defense and utilize the short passing game. Of Brady's 39 pass attempts, only TWO were for more than 15 yds. He once again proved what a winner he is. Brady was NOT at his best Sunday, he missed a number of throws, but he got the job done and won the game even though it meant running a little bit. (Speaking of, I'm shocked that Clint Ingram didn't get a spearing penalty for his hit on Brady. Yes, Brady dove instead of sliding. Yes the guy was coming full speed. YES he left his feet AND lead with the crown of his helmet right into Brady's spine. I sincerely hope the league takes a look at the hit and sends the kid a fine. All he had to do was touch Brady and he would have been OK if he just fell on top of him. The league needs to send this rookie a lesson for his OWN safety. If he continues to tackle with his head, he will paralyze himself at some point.) The offensive line did a great job protecting Brady considering he dropped back 43 times and got sacked only once. Moreover, Brady had a nice pocket and good throwing lanes. David Thomas showed why he was Vince Young's favorite target at Texas and makes the potential loss of Graham to free agency a little easier to take. I'll suck it up on this one and not that I was entirely happy with the game plan, but Joshy had a pretty good game too.
Second, the defense did a great job except for two plays. Hey, it happens. Obviously the first bad play was the fluke run by Jones-Drew. (I knew I should have started him on my fantasy team!) What shocked me the most was that, even seeing him rolling on the ground, not one official blew a whistle! There is NO WAY that all officials noticed that no Patriot touched him, so why wasn't there a whistle? I don't blame Tully at all on that play, nor the rest of the D. Take away that fluke play and Drew ran for 57 yds on 18 carries, that's pretty good D. The other horrid play was the Matt Jones TD. Where was the defense? I didn't get to see who missed the tackle, and I was told it was Asante, but NO safety help? NO deep zone coverage? One DB on the entire side of the field? Somebody screwed up badly on that one, it's hard to believe that up by ten points at that point in the game they'd play strictly man coverage.
ALSO, Rodney looks better now than he did at the beginning of the season, it was GREAT to have him back. Kudos to the D for stepping up and ending the game when it had to.
Special teams was the weak link. I don't blame Gostkowski for missing a 50 yarder, that happens to everyone. I think he'll be fine heading into the playoffs. While kick coverage was decent, kick returns were bad -especially the Maroney return. I was most disappointed in Todd "Ken Walter" Sauerbrun. Field position will make a BIG difference in the playoffs, so let's hope he was just rusty.
Now there seems to be the debate over what the Pats should do next week. As I wrote last week, I believe Belichick should rest everyone and use this week as a bye. Get Cassel some snaps, get Testeverde some work - don't get Brady speared. Rest everyone that is remotely hurt. They cannot get the #3 seed unless Indy loses again. Even then, they won't know until all the games are over who the opponent will be, unlike last year, when they knew they'd get the Jags if they lost to Miami. If you are interested in who is still in the playoff hunt and how they get in, visit ESPN at http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2668613
As it stands now, SD and Baltimore have the bye week, Indy is 3rd, Pats 4, Denver 5 and Jets 6th.
That means Jets at Indy and Denver at NE.
I'm not so sure I want to face Denver. I think the match-ups work better for the Pats the other way. Denver has a running game far superior to the Jets and would have a better chance of beating Indy. The Pats against Jets would be WW3 and there is no way in hell Belichick let's Manjerky beat him at home AGAIN.
Getting back to current reality, the Jets have been hot and Indy not so hot and it is quite concievable that the Jets win that game and go to SD. Meaning a Pats win brings them to Baltimore. Jet and Pats victories in those games would mean the Pats hosting the Jets for the AFC Championship. It doesn't get any better than that!
Hopefully I'll be able to post 2-3 times a week for the rest of the season, so check back early and often and tell your friends to do the same!
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Another Big But
It was great to see the Pats perform well in all three phases of Sunday's game BUT it is hard to get too excited about it because it was the Texans afterall. David Carr stunk, Andre Johnson didn't come to play and they kept feeding the Pats the ball on turnovers. When was the last time the Pats won a game in the first quarter? See what happens when you actually use the screen play? That game is over and, like the Pats are doing, we should look forward.
First, good riddance to Ken Walter who was place on IR. It looks like they've signed a rookie punter to the practice squad to compete for the job with the current practice squad punter. How's that for best job around sports? Practice squad punter. The minimum salary for a practice squad guy is $79,900. Not bad. No running, no tackling, just show up and make a few kicks for 5 months, where do I sign up? I mean, I can almost kick it as far as Walter could.
A glance at the playoff picture shows a bleak outlook.
If the playoffs started this week, the Pats would host Denver and Cincy would go to Baltimore with SD and Indy as the 1 and 2 seeds. IF all the seedings hold true, the Pats would have to beat Denver at home, win AT san diego then win AT indy. Good luck with that road to the superbowl. Sounds more like road to one and done to me. On a more positive note, a Doc that I work with that is a huge cowboys fan was saying that the Pats will go to the superbowl. I told him he's nuts, but here are his reasons:
-Brady and Belichick are winners and give the Pats a chance in any game.
-They consistantly stop the run and have a good D in general
-They have a 'shutdown' corner in Samuel (I refuted that one)
-They have the ability to run the ball.
I suppose one could argue for or against any of those reasons. I'm still a bit pessimistic about their chances this year.
The Pro Bowl balloting is a big farce. No one that has watched any football can possibly say that Seymour money is having a better year than Ty Warren. I'm sure the Pats thought they should have had more than one representative in Honalulu. They feel like they've been disrespected and that has only worked to their advantage in the past. Let's hope it can carry them into February.
As for NEXT season...(is that looking too far ahead?)...it's not pretty.
Their divisional rotation puts them up against the AFC North and the NFC East.
So every team in their division plays the entire AFC Northe and NFC East.
Their standings matchups are against the AFC West and the AFC South. So if the Pats finish first, which they will, they'll play #1 from each of those divisions, INDY and SD.
Not to mention home and away vs Miami Buffalo Jets.
Here's what it's projected to be: (remember you heard it here first)
HOME: Cleveland, Pitt, Philly, Wash, SD, Jets, Miami, Bills
AWAY: Baltimore, Cincy, Dallas, Giants, Indy, Jets, Miami, Bills
I see about 5 games that they'll definitely win and quite possibly an 8-8 season.
On the other hand, the Pats will be 30 million under the cap and have 2 first-round picks, so they SHOULD be able to improve their team dramatically. Here are some suggestions to Mr Pioli and Mr Belichick from your humble blogger.
-re-sign Graham and Izzo
-let Asante go for his 10 mill.
Go after and SIGN:
-CB Nate Clements from Buffalo,
-LB Lance Briggs from Chicago or LB/DE Adelius Thomas from Baltimore
-WR Wes Welker to return kicks and take over as the slot receiver
-S Ken Hamlin from Seattle.
Now you are a younger, faster defense with 4 Playmakers added to the team.
Use the two first round picks on:
-WR Johnnie Lee Higgins, UTEP
In 11 games this season he only had 82 catches and 1300+ yds and 13 TDs. Did I mention he runs a 4.3 in the 40, has terrific hands and plays with his heart on his sleeve?
-Marcus McCauley, Freson St. 6'1 205; 4.35 in the 40.
A "system" fit from Fresno, can play zone or man and is great in run support.
I'd be pretty excited about THAT teams chances against the '07 schedule. But what do I know?
Let's hope that the Pats take care of business in Jacksonville and clinch the division THIS week. Doing so would allow Belichick to rest anyone that's banged up in the last game against the Titans, essentially creating their own bye week. Then hosting what will most likely be the JETS in the first round of the playoffs. I don't want our playoff chances to rest on having to beat Vince Young and the Titans @Tennessee, as the Pats have historically struggled against mobile QB's. Believe me, the Pats have no one on D that can run with Young. Let's wory about that bridge when/if we get there.
First, good riddance to Ken Walter who was place on IR. It looks like they've signed a rookie punter to the practice squad to compete for the job with the current practice squad punter. How's that for best job around sports? Practice squad punter. The minimum salary for a practice squad guy is $79,900. Not bad. No running, no tackling, just show up and make a few kicks for 5 months, where do I sign up? I mean, I can almost kick it as far as Walter could.
A glance at the playoff picture shows a bleak outlook.
If the playoffs started this week, the Pats would host Denver and Cincy would go to Baltimore with SD and Indy as the 1 and 2 seeds. IF all the seedings hold true, the Pats would have to beat Denver at home, win AT san diego then win AT indy. Good luck with that road to the superbowl. Sounds more like road to one and done to me. On a more positive note, a Doc that I work with that is a huge cowboys fan was saying that the Pats will go to the superbowl. I told him he's nuts, but here are his reasons:
-Brady and Belichick are winners and give the Pats a chance in any game.
-They consistantly stop the run and have a good D in general
-They have a 'shutdown' corner in Samuel (I refuted that one)
-They have the ability to run the ball.
I suppose one could argue for or against any of those reasons. I'm still a bit pessimistic about their chances this year.
The Pro Bowl balloting is a big farce. No one that has watched any football can possibly say that Seymour money is having a better year than Ty Warren. I'm sure the Pats thought they should have had more than one representative in Honalulu. They feel like they've been disrespected and that has only worked to their advantage in the past. Let's hope it can carry them into February.
As for NEXT season...(is that looking too far ahead?)...it's not pretty.
Their divisional rotation puts them up against the AFC North and the NFC East.
So every team in their division plays the entire AFC Northe and NFC East.
Their standings matchups are against the AFC West and the AFC South. So if the Pats finish first, which they will, they'll play #1 from each of those divisions, INDY and SD.
Not to mention home and away vs Miami Buffalo Jets.
Here's what it's projected to be: (remember you heard it here first)
HOME: Cleveland, Pitt, Philly, Wash, SD, Jets, Miami, Bills
AWAY: Baltimore, Cincy, Dallas, Giants, Indy, Jets, Miami, Bills
I see about 5 games that they'll definitely win and quite possibly an 8-8 season.
On the other hand, the Pats will be 30 million under the cap and have 2 first-round picks, so they SHOULD be able to improve their team dramatically. Here are some suggestions to Mr Pioli and Mr Belichick from your humble blogger.
-re-sign Graham and Izzo
-let Asante go for his 10 mill.
Go after and SIGN:
-CB Nate Clements from Buffalo,
-LB Lance Briggs from Chicago or LB/DE Adelius Thomas from Baltimore
-WR Wes Welker to return kicks and take over as the slot receiver
-S Ken Hamlin from Seattle.
Now you are a younger, faster defense with 4 Playmakers added to the team.
Use the two first round picks on:
-WR Johnnie Lee Higgins, UTEP
In 11 games this season he only had 82 catches and 1300+ yds and 13 TDs. Did I mention he runs a 4.3 in the 40, has terrific hands and plays with his heart on his sleeve?
-Marcus McCauley, Freson St. 6'1 205; 4.35 in the 40.
A "system" fit from Fresno, can play zone or man and is great in run support.
I'd be pretty excited about THAT teams chances against the '07 schedule. But what do I know?
Let's hope that the Pats take care of business in Jacksonville and clinch the division THIS week. Doing so would allow Belichick to rest anyone that's banged up in the last game against the Titans, essentially creating their own bye week. Then hosting what will most likely be the JETS in the first round of the playoffs. I don't want our playoff chances to rest on having to beat Vince Young and the Titans @Tennessee, as the Pats have historically struggled against mobile QB's. Believe me, the Pats have no one on D that can run with Young. Let's wory about that bridge when/if we get there.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Where Do We Go From Here?
Thanks for cathcing the Radiohead referrence.
Where DO the Pats go from here? I mean, releasing Doug Gabriel is not the answer. I really hope he talks because I'd love to know what the hell happened there. Is it too early to start looking at next season? I don't think this team can win the superbowl, do you? That being said, there isn't a team out there that you'd say the Pats couldn't possibly beat. While San Diego is probably the best team right now, the Pats have done well against the run this season and Bellichick has a knack for confusing young QB's. So where do we go from here? Let's start with the Miami game.
The two biggest reasons I saw that cost the Pats the game were (surprise surprise) Josh McDaniels and Murphy's Law.
Do I really need to keep telling you what's wrong with Joshy? The Dolphins D did exactly what the world expected them to, press coverage on the corners and rush the passer. The running game seemed to me that it was working. That is until, once again, it was completely abandoned by Joshy. Hey, have you guys ever heard of this Jason Taylor guy? Evidently Joshy has no idea who he is. Come on Joshy, the guy is pounding Brady into the turf on every pass play and you keep trying to block him one on one? As I've said many times before, stop the pass rush with screens and draws. This weeks total? 1 screen, 0 draws. I will give him credit for the horribly executed double pass for a TD.
Anything that could go wrong did go wrong, Murphy's Law. Three punts downed inside the 10, rediculous phantom calls agains the Pats, a fluke TD pass that went through Hawkins hands and on and on.
Of honorable mention for costing the Pats the game is Ken Walter. You CAN NOT tell me that there is no one out there that can kick more than 30 yards.
Looking the rest of the way the Pats have 3 games they should win, but it wouldn't surprise me if they lose two more games. Here's how to look at it now. Thanks to a Jets loss, they've pretty much locked up the division and the #4 seed. It's nearly impossible for them to move up or down from there. Therefore, how this team comes together and executes the rest of the was is more impotant than actaul wins. So what if Vince Young pulls out another miracle come back and beats the Pats, did they do some good things? The last three games are more of a dress rehearsal to work on fixing the holes as best they can before the playoffs begin.
The Playoff Picture
1) SD 2) Indy 3) Balt 4) NE 5) Cincy 6) Jax (Jets, KC and Denver are one game out)
You're right Krager, I dont want to go to this week's game either. And I wouldn't except that I have been fortunate enough to have an invitation to watch the game from a luxury box. I'll be sure to tell all next week!
As soon as I figure out how to set it up, I'll have the "sign up to receive notification of Posts" thingy posted. Can you tell I'm not tech savy?
Where DO the Pats go from here? I mean, releasing Doug Gabriel is not the answer. I really hope he talks because I'd love to know what the hell happened there. Is it too early to start looking at next season? I don't think this team can win the superbowl, do you? That being said, there isn't a team out there that you'd say the Pats couldn't possibly beat. While San Diego is probably the best team right now, the Pats have done well against the run this season and Bellichick has a knack for confusing young QB's. So where do we go from here? Let's start with the Miami game.
The two biggest reasons I saw that cost the Pats the game were (surprise surprise) Josh McDaniels and Murphy's Law.
Do I really need to keep telling you what's wrong with Joshy? The Dolphins D did exactly what the world expected them to, press coverage on the corners and rush the passer. The running game seemed to me that it was working. That is until, once again, it was completely abandoned by Joshy. Hey, have you guys ever heard of this Jason Taylor guy? Evidently Joshy has no idea who he is. Come on Joshy, the guy is pounding Brady into the turf on every pass play and you keep trying to block him one on one? As I've said many times before, stop the pass rush with screens and draws. This weeks total? 1 screen, 0 draws. I will give him credit for the horribly executed double pass for a TD.
Anything that could go wrong did go wrong, Murphy's Law. Three punts downed inside the 10, rediculous phantom calls agains the Pats, a fluke TD pass that went through Hawkins hands and on and on.
Of honorable mention for costing the Pats the game is Ken Walter. You CAN NOT tell me that there is no one out there that can kick more than 30 yards.
Looking the rest of the way the Pats have 3 games they should win, but it wouldn't surprise me if they lose two more games. Here's how to look at it now. Thanks to a Jets loss, they've pretty much locked up the division and the #4 seed. It's nearly impossible for them to move up or down from there. Therefore, how this team comes together and executes the rest of the was is more impotant than actaul wins. So what if Vince Young pulls out another miracle come back and beats the Pats, did they do some good things? The last three games are more of a dress rehearsal to work on fixing the holes as best they can before the playoffs begin.
The Playoff Picture
1) SD 2) Indy 3) Balt 4) NE 5) Cincy 6) Jax (Jets, KC and Denver are one game out)
You're right Krager, I dont want to go to this week's game either. And I wouldn't except that I have been fortunate enough to have an invitation to watch the game from a luxury box. I'll be sure to tell all next week!
As soon as I figure out how to set it up, I'll have the "sign up to receive notification of Posts" thingy posted. Can you tell I'm not tech savy?
Friday, December 08, 2006
Playoff Picture and MORE!
With four games to go in the regular season, this weekends games will have a huge impact on the playoff race and seedings. There are more key match-ups this week than in the last three, so by Monday we'll have a good idea of where the Pats will end up. If the season were to end today, the Pats would host the Bengals on wild card weekend. The other game would be The Jets at Ravens. Indy is still the #1 and SD is 2nd seed. Here are the key games this weekend:
Indy @ Jax. Two straight losses for Indy is highly unlikely and it probably won't make much of a difference to the Pats anyway unless Indy ends up with 4 losses (they have 2 now) . ndy has the head to head as well as conference record tie breakers over the Pats, but who wouldn't want to see Peyton lose again?
Baltimore @ KC Go Herm Edwards. A win for KC would be HUGE for the Pats. Baltimore would have 3 losses and be tied with NE for the 3rd playoff seed. They don't play head to head, and they would both be 6-3 in the conference. I think the next tie breaker is record vs common opponents. I haven't looked THAT far - yet.
Denver @ SD A must win for Denver, tough SD is now vying for the #1 seed with Indy. The Bolts have 2 more 'losable' games after this one and it will take 2 losses for the Pats to be leapfrog them for the #2 seed. This is the biggest game for the Pats this week besides their own.
Speaking of ther own game at Miami, I really like their chances of winning in this game for two reasons. First, a lot of the local media are picking Miami in this game and that ALWAYS motivates the Pats. They just have that knack for winning games that you just don't think they'll win and this game is a prime example. Second, they really sucked last week and it is very rare that this team goes aout and lays an egg two weeks in a row. We'll see how they gameplan for this one knowing that Maroney will likely play sparingly if at all.
The Pats have had success on the road this season and it's because they've gotten out to early leads. With the possibility of Maroney being out, it might be a wise choice for the Pats to come out with the 2 minute offense to start the game. You know, the one that scored on 3 of 4 posessions last week? That would have scored on 4 of 4 if not for the Watson fumble? Spread'em out and pass, run some draws to Faulk to keep the D honest and get an early lead. Miami probably has to rely on the passing game anyway because Ronnie Brown will be out with a broken hand. Harrington will turn it over in this game, especially if they fall behind early and have to pass 80% of the time.
Did you hear me Joshy? 2 minute offense to start the game! Get the lead and then worry about running.
Pats 31 'Fins 10
Loose ends:
I realize that I have not stuck to my plan of a Wednesday posting and have been erratic with the posting schedule. IF I used one of those "notify you when I post" things would that be helpful to you guys or would you not even bother to sign up for it?
Note to Krager, you got your wish. For some reason I forgot that the Browns were playing the Steelers on Thursday night, how could THAT have happened? So I missed the deadline for our pick'em league. You're not welcome.
Indy @ Jax. Two straight losses for Indy is highly unlikely and it probably won't make much of a difference to the Pats anyway unless Indy ends up with 4 losses (they have 2 now) . ndy has the head to head as well as conference record tie breakers over the Pats, but who wouldn't want to see Peyton lose again?
Baltimore @ KC Go Herm Edwards. A win for KC would be HUGE for the Pats. Baltimore would have 3 losses and be tied with NE for the 3rd playoff seed. They don't play head to head, and they would both be 6-3 in the conference. I think the next tie breaker is record vs common opponents. I haven't looked THAT far - yet.
Denver @ SD A must win for Denver, tough SD is now vying for the #1 seed with Indy. The Bolts have 2 more 'losable' games after this one and it will take 2 losses for the Pats to be leapfrog them for the #2 seed. This is the biggest game for the Pats this week besides their own.
Speaking of ther own game at Miami, I really like their chances of winning in this game for two reasons. First, a lot of the local media are picking Miami in this game and that ALWAYS motivates the Pats. They just have that knack for winning games that you just don't think they'll win and this game is a prime example. Second, they really sucked last week and it is very rare that this team goes aout and lays an egg two weeks in a row. We'll see how they gameplan for this one knowing that Maroney will likely play sparingly if at all.
The Pats have had success on the road this season and it's because they've gotten out to early leads. With the possibility of Maroney being out, it might be a wise choice for the Pats to come out with the 2 minute offense to start the game. You know, the one that scored on 3 of 4 posessions last week? That would have scored on 4 of 4 if not for the Watson fumble? Spread'em out and pass, run some draws to Faulk to keep the D honest and get an early lead. Miami probably has to rely on the passing game anyway because Ronnie Brown will be out with a broken hand. Harrington will turn it over in this game, especially if they fall behind early and have to pass 80% of the time.
Did you hear me Joshy? 2 minute offense to start the game! Get the lead and then worry about running.
Pats 31 'Fins 10
Loose ends:
I realize that I have not stuck to my plan of a Wednesday posting and have been erratic with the posting schedule. IF I used one of those "notify you when I post" things would that be helpful to you guys or would you not even bother to sign up for it?
Note to Krager, you got your wish. For some reason I forgot that the Browns were playing the Steelers on Thursday night, how could THAT have happened? So I missed the deadline for our pick'em league. You're not welcome.
Monday, December 04, 2006
That's Just Not Going to Cut it.
Garbage. That's what the Patriots played like yesterday. You do NOT 'just show up' and expect to win in the NFL, even against a team as bad as Detroit. Actually, I think Ohio State would probably beat the Lions. They might even be more deserving of the chance than FLorida, but I digress.
One has to wonder what Belichick will do to the team this week. Evidently he had them in full pads and hitting all last week as well as (according to Brady) giving them their toughtest mental day of the year so far on Wednesday. So what does Bill have up his sleeve for this week? Swimming with sharks? Competing in a triathlon? Listening to more Bon Jovi? Whatever it is I have NO sympathy for this team, I hope he beats the piss out of 'em, they deserve it. On with my questions...
Who's the best player in the NFL?
Once again, Tom Brady showed why he is the best player in the NFL. 14-15 passing in the 4th quarter for 15 points. It should have been three scores, but Watson fumbled again while the Pats were about to take another one in. (I heard a radio guy call Watson the new Faulk because everytime he touches it you say JUST HOLD ON TO IT. Good point.)
What was with the gameplan anyway?
Did it seem like the whole game was predicated on Maroney? Because once he went out the Offense had that, "now what do we do" look to it. It took my best friend Joshy until the fourth quarter and trailing by 8 points to adjust to the loss of Maroney. By the way, it only took FOX until the fourth quarter to mention that Maroney wasn't in the game.
Did you crap yourself (too) when Vrabel went down?
How nice was it to FINALLY see Gabriel have a catch?
Who is the most over-rated player on the Pats?
Asante Samuel. They raved about his INT before they pointed out that it was just a great defensive call and that any DB could make that play. But they said NOTHING about the poor coverage he had in the end zone on Detriot's only TD.
Does anyone really miss Deion Branch?
It is obvious that Caldwell has established himself as a guy that Brady has a ton of confidence in. Seattle paid $7 mill per for Deion's 38 catches and 4 TD's, not to mention the #1 pick. Caldwell has 46 and 3TD's and will make $585,000 this season. A team could buy 6 Caldwells for the price of a Branch. Let's see where the seahawks are in 2 seasons.
If you are curious to see what all the Pats make I would refer you to Miguels page: http://www.patscap.com/
Back with more on the playoff Picture on Wednesday.....
One has to wonder what Belichick will do to the team this week. Evidently he had them in full pads and hitting all last week as well as (according to Brady) giving them their toughtest mental day of the year so far on Wednesday. So what does Bill have up his sleeve for this week? Swimming with sharks? Competing in a triathlon? Listening to more Bon Jovi? Whatever it is I have NO sympathy for this team, I hope he beats the piss out of 'em, they deserve it. On with my questions...
Who's the best player in the NFL?
Once again, Tom Brady showed why he is the best player in the NFL. 14-15 passing in the 4th quarter for 15 points. It should have been three scores, but Watson fumbled again while the Pats were about to take another one in. (I heard a radio guy call Watson the new Faulk because everytime he touches it you say JUST HOLD ON TO IT. Good point.)
What was with the gameplan anyway?
Did it seem like the whole game was predicated on Maroney? Because once he went out the Offense had that, "now what do we do" look to it. It took my best friend Joshy until the fourth quarter and trailing by 8 points to adjust to the loss of Maroney. By the way, it only took FOX until the fourth quarter to mention that Maroney wasn't in the game.
Did you crap yourself (too) when Vrabel went down?
How nice was it to FINALLY see Gabriel have a catch?
Who is the most over-rated player on the Pats?
Asante Samuel. They raved about his INT before they pointed out that it was just a great defensive call and that any DB could make that play. But they said NOTHING about the poor coverage he had in the end zone on Detriot's only TD.
Does anyone really miss Deion Branch?
It is obvious that Caldwell has established himself as a guy that Brady has a ton of confidence in. Seattle paid $7 mill per for Deion's 38 catches and 4 TD's, not to mention the #1 pick. Caldwell has 46 and 3TD's and will make $585,000 this season. A team could buy 6 Caldwells for the price of a Branch. Let's see where the seahawks are in 2 seasons.
If you are curious to see what all the Pats make I would refer you to Miguels page: http://www.patscap.com/
Back with more on the playoff Picture on Wednesday.....
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Playoff Picture: Who do We Want to Win This Week?
The playoff picture is getting more and more into focus as the season winds down. I can't believe there are only FIVE games left! Where did the season go? By now you guys all know the importance of the first round bye and as of this moment, the Pats are still the 4th seed and would host KC in a playoff game. No one's been hotter than KC lately, but I think they are peaking at the wrong time. Indy, Baltimore and SD are 1,2 and 3 while KC is 5 and Denver is 6th (soon to be out). With that being said let's try to figure out who Patriots Nation wants to see lose this week:
Baltimore at Cincy Thursday night on NFL network baby!
Once upon a daytime fieldy, while they plundered weak and dreary
Bird or beast shall win the contest but should the Ravens pass the test?
Nevermore!
-Tommy Allan Poe
San Diego at Buffalo.
Stranger things have happened, but we've got to pull for the Bills in this one. May the legend of OJ come back and ....nevermind. We're looking for the Bolts to get their 3rd loss. This may be a trap game for SD after a tough win last week against Oak and a big game vs Denver next week. It's gonna snow this weekend in Buffalo, right?
Jets at Green Bay.
Not that it really matters, but the Jets are still in contention. I'd like to see them lose every game for the rest of the year. REMEMBER when I tell you that the damn loss to the NYJ's is going to come back to haunt us when it comes time to determine playoff seeds.
Jags at Miami.
Hmmm. Tough call. On one hand you always want the 'phins to lose, this year in particular so they have nothing to play for when the Pats go down there next week. On the other hand, a Miami win would almost assure the the Jags are out of the playoff picture. I'm declaring that we become Jaguar fans on Sunday.
Seattle at Denver.
Sheesh, this just doesn't get any easier does it? We want Denver out of it because we NEVER want to have to play that team again. HOWEVER there is the little matter of the Pats owning the rights to Seattle's first round pick in the up coming draft. Based on the number of tough games coming up for Denver, I think we're looking for a better draft pick here. As they said on south park, "Lets go Broncos." I never thought I'd say that.
There you have it, the best possible scenarios for the Pats as far as I can tell. Of course it goes without saying that we have to hope the Pats can find a way to beat the Lions. Have you heard how Belichick described them? You'd think they were 9-2, not 2-9. Whatever works.
Pats 35 Lions 3.
p.s. Thanks for the love!
p.s.s. Anybody got room for one more on Sunday?
Baltimore at Cincy Thursday night on NFL network baby!
Once upon a daytime fieldy, while they plundered weak and dreary
Bird or beast shall win the contest but should the Ravens pass the test?
Nevermore!
-Tommy Allan Poe
San Diego at Buffalo.
Stranger things have happened, but we've got to pull for the Bills in this one. May the legend of OJ come back and ....nevermind. We're looking for the Bolts to get their 3rd loss. This may be a trap game for SD after a tough win last week against Oak and a big game vs Denver next week. It's gonna snow this weekend in Buffalo, right?
Jets at Green Bay.
Not that it really matters, but the Jets are still in contention. I'd like to see them lose every game for the rest of the year. REMEMBER when I tell you that the damn loss to the NYJ's is going to come back to haunt us when it comes time to determine playoff seeds.
Jags at Miami.
Hmmm. Tough call. On one hand you always want the 'phins to lose, this year in particular so they have nothing to play for when the Pats go down there next week. On the other hand, a Miami win would almost assure the the Jags are out of the playoff picture. I'm declaring that we become Jaguar fans on Sunday.
Seattle at Denver.
Sheesh, this just doesn't get any easier does it? We want Denver out of it because we NEVER want to have to play that team again. HOWEVER there is the little matter of the Pats owning the rights to Seattle's first round pick in the up coming draft. Based on the number of tough games coming up for Denver, I think we're looking for a better draft pick here. As they said on south park, "Lets go Broncos." I never thought I'd say that.
There you have it, the best possible scenarios for the Pats as far as I can tell. Of course it goes without saying that we have to hope the Pats can find a way to beat the Lions. Have you heard how Belichick described them? You'd think they were 9-2, not 2-9. Whatever works.
Pats 35 Lions 3.
p.s. Thanks for the love!
p.s.s. Anybody got room for one more on Sunday?
Monday, November 27, 2006
Try as they might...
The Patriots tried as hard as they could to give the game to the Chicago Bears on Sunday afternoon, it's just that Rex Grossman didn't want it either. I've broken this week down into categories for your reading pleasure.
TOM BRADY
Yes, he threw a bad interception, but that play aside he looked like a champion. The difference between the Bears and Patriots is the QB and Brady made it obvious this week. The series after the bears scored because of the 45 yd penalty was crucial to the outcome and Brady was at his best. The 3rd down play where he scrambled and found Watson was one of the best plays I've ever seen him make. If you saw the replay, Watson stopped running when Brady scrambled. But Brady knew he was in single coverage and gave Watson the chance to make a play. Superb. Of course that play wasn't as entertaining as the 11 yd scramble on 3rd in nine in which Brady toasted Urlacher. Tom Terrific then capped off his genious when he audibled to the QB sneak on 3rd and 3. BRILLIANT!
Best play of the Game
Brady finding Watson on the scramble.
Worst play of the Game
Josh McDaniels call of a double reverse for a loss of 8
Second worst play of the Game
Watson fumbles, Caldwel recovers and looks like he's going in for the touchdown....but then he fumbles and Chicago recovers.
Best thing Fox Sports did all night
The Benny Hill theme music over the hi-lights.
Second best thing Fox Sports did
I LOVE how they put the down and distance graphic right on the field. I sincerely hope that CBS steals that.
Player of the Game
Asante Samuel
Oooooo
Junior Seau's broken arm was the grossest thing I've seen since Joe Thiesman's leg.
That Sucks
The Pats are REALLY going to miss Seau. Notice how well Chicago was able to run the ball as soon as he left the game?
Almost crapped my pants when
Bruschi stayed down shortly after Seau left the game.
Under-rated
Kevin Faulk's 262nd reception puts him #1 all time in receptions by a Patriots running back.
Worst call in the history of pass interference
I don't think I have to tell you.
You know it's a bad call when
A former QB turned broadcaster (Aikman) says it's a bad call and that it should be a reviewable play.
OOPS
Lovie Smith calls timeout as Gostkowski misses his field goal just so he can re-kick and make it!
Unaffordable
I've been telling people for weeks now that Asante Samuel will not return to the Pats next year. The cap is going way up and someone will give him 8 or 9 million per season and you know the Pats aren't going there with him. They already tried to sign he and Graham, but they both want to test the unrestricted market. Asante can "thank" himself for assuring a HUGE payday with yesterday's nationally televised performance. (let's see if anyone picks up on that)
Krager
Pro Pick'em is pure luck. BUT, I'm not going to 'let' anyone catch up.
Does anybody remember
Who picked the Pats and the Cowboys to go to the super bowl? Looks like "them Cowboys" might have an easier time getting there than the Pats.
Tell your friends you heard it here and remember, the best complement you can give a blogger is to comment so he knows that someone is reading.
TOM BRADY
Yes, he threw a bad interception, but that play aside he looked like a champion. The difference between the Bears and Patriots is the QB and Brady made it obvious this week. The series after the bears scored because of the 45 yd penalty was crucial to the outcome and Brady was at his best. The 3rd down play where he scrambled and found Watson was one of the best plays I've ever seen him make. If you saw the replay, Watson stopped running when Brady scrambled. But Brady knew he was in single coverage and gave Watson the chance to make a play. Superb. Of course that play wasn't as entertaining as the 11 yd scramble on 3rd in nine in which Brady toasted Urlacher. Tom Terrific then capped off his genious when he audibled to the QB sneak on 3rd and 3. BRILLIANT!
Best play of the Game
Brady finding Watson on the scramble.
Worst play of the Game
Josh McDaniels call of a double reverse for a loss of 8
Second worst play of the Game
Watson fumbles, Caldwel recovers and looks like he's going in for the touchdown....but then he fumbles and Chicago recovers.
Best thing Fox Sports did all night
The Benny Hill theme music over the hi-lights.
Second best thing Fox Sports did
I LOVE how they put the down and distance graphic right on the field. I sincerely hope that CBS steals that.
Player of the Game
Asante Samuel
Oooooo
Junior Seau's broken arm was the grossest thing I've seen since Joe Thiesman's leg.
That Sucks
The Pats are REALLY going to miss Seau. Notice how well Chicago was able to run the ball as soon as he left the game?
Almost crapped my pants when
Bruschi stayed down shortly after Seau left the game.
Under-rated
Kevin Faulk's 262nd reception puts him #1 all time in receptions by a Patriots running back.
Worst call in the history of pass interference
I don't think I have to tell you.
You know it's a bad call when
A former QB turned broadcaster (Aikman) says it's a bad call and that it should be a reviewable play.
OOPS
Lovie Smith calls timeout as Gostkowski misses his field goal just so he can re-kick and make it!
Unaffordable
I've been telling people for weeks now that Asante Samuel will not return to the Pats next year. The cap is going way up and someone will give him 8 or 9 million per season and you know the Pats aren't going there with him. They already tried to sign he and Graham, but they both want to test the unrestricted market. Asante can "thank" himself for assuring a HUGE payday with yesterday's nationally televised performance. (let's see if anyone picks up on that)
Krager
Pro Pick'em is pure luck. BUT, I'm not going to 'let' anyone catch up.
Does anybody remember
Who picked the Pats and the Cowboys to go to the super bowl? Looks like "them Cowboys" might have an easier time getting there than the Pats.
Tell your friends you heard it here and remember, the best complement you can give a blogger is to comment so he knows that someone is reading.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Happy Thanksgiving to You and Your Families
As Thanksgiving approaches we take time to reflect on the blessings in our lives that we should be thankful for. I for one thank God that I'm not a Green Bay fan. They are a pathetic football team. They make me feel appreciative of our Patriots. There isn't a team out there that you'd say the Pats have no chance of beating. How many teams in the league can say that, six?
I'm not going to say much about last week's game because of that. GB simply stinks, the Pats took care of business instead of being sucked into a trap game. I'll give them credit for that. Let me ask you some questions about the game:
Where was Doug Gabriel? I saw him for one or two running plays, that's it. I certainly hope that one fumble against the Jets doesn't doghouse him for the year. It seems like he's tried real hard to be productive for this team and I hope he gets a chance.
How nice was it to see Stephen Neil return to the O Line?
How bad has Brett Favre gotten? Man, I love Brady, but I hope that we'll all know when to say goodbye to him.
Didn't your jaw drop when Maroney faked Barnett out of his jock strap on the way to a TD?
Where was this Offense against the @#%&ing Jets?
Thanks for YOUR response to those crucial life and death questions. I'd like to have a little speculation fun before moving on to Da Bears game.
If the playoffs started today, The Pats would be the fourth seed. Here's how it would shake out and then my idiotic try at picking the SB based on that.
BYE WEEK:
1 Indy
2 Ravens (tied with SD, but beat SD head to head)
Wild Card:
#6 Jaguars at #3 SD
#5 Broncos at #4 Pats
*I THINK the Jags get #6 over KC by virtue of a better AFC record.
Pats over Broncos
SD over Jags
SD over Indy
Pats over Ravens
Pats over SD
Piece of cake right?
Doing a bit more research based on strength of schedule, I think the Pats will swap with the Ravens by seasons end so it will go Indy, Pats, SD, Ravens, then either Broncos Jags or KC for the last two spots. At any rate, in this order, when SD beats Indy, the AFC championship would be SD AT NE in 2 degrees and snow.
Thanks for humoring me.
AND THE NUMBER ONE REASON WHY THE PATS WILL BEAT DA BEARS.....
Teams playing on the road for a third time in a row only win 34% of the time. I haven't found it, but if you include the fact that the bears won the first two, the odds of winning 3 in a row on the road have got to be VERY slim.
The number two reason why the pats SHOULD beat Da Bears....
(Please forward this Josh "Cletus" McDaniels)
The Bears are susceptible to the RUN. RUN the ball Joshy. Run. Run. Run. Then Run some more. Here's what the Bears run defense has done since their week 7 bye:
week 8 - Frank Gore 111 yds
" 9 - Ronnie Brown 157 yds
" 10 - Tiki Barber 141 yds
" 11 - Jets 3 backs 108 yds
Here are the Bears stats vs the pass this season:
#1 giving up a mere 152 yds through the air
#2 in INT's with 15
A total of 25 sacks.
IF Joshy lets the Pats run, they win.
Chicago wins if:
They return a kick for a TD. The Pats special teamers will be tested this week.
PATS 16 Da Bears 6
10 things I think I think (thanks Peter King at SI):
1 - I'll route for San Francisco to make it back to the playoffs. They are one game out at 5-5 so it's a real possibility.
2 - The AFC representative will win the Super Bowl
3 - It was great to see Peyton Manning lose this week.
4 - The Pats shouldn't have given up on Terry Glenn. She was instumental in the Dallas victory this week.
5 - Seattle will lose 6 or 7 games this year. (better Pats pick)
6 - Brett Favre should have retired 2 years ago
7 - Denver has problems. How do they always beat the Pats?
8 - The Pats toughest remaining game is AT Miami.
9 - I want to kiss Suzy Kolber too! (but I don't think I'm her type)
10 - Michigan had their chance and does NOT deserve a re-match with Ohio State.
- Jim Tressel will be one of the best NFL coaches within the next 3 years - if he wants to.
I'm not going to say much about last week's game because of that. GB simply stinks, the Pats took care of business instead of being sucked into a trap game. I'll give them credit for that. Let me ask you some questions about the game:
Where was Doug Gabriel? I saw him for one or two running plays, that's it. I certainly hope that one fumble against the Jets doesn't doghouse him for the year. It seems like he's tried real hard to be productive for this team and I hope he gets a chance.
How nice was it to see Stephen Neil return to the O Line?
How bad has Brett Favre gotten? Man, I love Brady, but I hope that we'll all know when to say goodbye to him.
Didn't your jaw drop when Maroney faked Barnett out of his jock strap on the way to a TD?
Where was this Offense against the @#%&ing Jets?
Thanks for YOUR response to those crucial life and death questions. I'd like to have a little speculation fun before moving on to Da Bears game.
If the playoffs started today, The Pats would be the fourth seed. Here's how it would shake out and then my idiotic try at picking the SB based on that.
BYE WEEK:
1 Indy
2 Ravens (tied with SD, but beat SD head to head)
Wild Card:
#6 Jaguars at #3 SD
#5 Broncos at #4 Pats
*I THINK the Jags get #6 over KC by virtue of a better AFC record.
Pats over Broncos
SD over Jags
SD over Indy
Pats over Ravens
Pats over SD
Piece of cake right?
Doing a bit more research based on strength of schedule, I think the Pats will swap with the Ravens by seasons end so it will go Indy, Pats, SD, Ravens, then either Broncos Jags or KC for the last two spots. At any rate, in this order, when SD beats Indy, the AFC championship would be SD AT NE in 2 degrees and snow.
Thanks for humoring me.
AND THE NUMBER ONE REASON WHY THE PATS WILL BEAT DA BEARS.....
Teams playing on the road for a third time in a row only win 34% of the time. I haven't found it, but if you include the fact that the bears won the first two, the odds of winning 3 in a row on the road have got to be VERY slim.
The number two reason why the pats SHOULD beat Da Bears....
(Please forward this Josh "Cletus" McDaniels)
The Bears are susceptible to the RUN. RUN the ball Joshy. Run. Run. Run. Then Run some more. Here's what the Bears run defense has done since their week 7 bye:
week 8 - Frank Gore 111 yds
" 9 - Ronnie Brown 157 yds
" 10 - Tiki Barber 141 yds
" 11 - Jets 3 backs 108 yds
Here are the Bears stats vs the pass this season:
#1 giving up a mere 152 yds through the air
#2 in INT's with 15
A total of 25 sacks.
IF Joshy lets the Pats run, they win.
Chicago wins if:
They return a kick for a TD. The Pats special teamers will be tested this week.
PATS 16 Da Bears 6
10 things I think I think (thanks Peter King at SI):
1 - I'll route for San Francisco to make it back to the playoffs. They are one game out at 5-5 so it's a real possibility.
2 - The AFC representative will win the Super Bowl
3 - It was great to see Peyton Manning lose this week.
4 - The Pats shouldn't have given up on Terry Glenn. She was instumental in the Dallas victory this week.
5 - Seattle will lose 6 or 7 games this year. (better Pats pick)
6 - Brett Favre should have retired 2 years ago
7 - Denver has problems. How do they always beat the Pats?
8 - The Pats toughest remaining game is AT Miami.
9 - I want to kiss Suzy Kolber too! (but I don't think I'm her type)
10 - Michigan had their chance and does NOT deserve a re-match with Ohio State.
- Jim Tressel will be one of the best NFL coaches within the next 3 years - if he wants to.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
I.J.T.P.T.P.O.T.P.E.F.A.F.T.
(I'm just too pissed to post on this pathetic excuse for a football team.)
Who do they think they are, the Bruins? the Celtics?
Belichick was in over his head against Mangini today. He had NO ANSWER for the Jets offense. Did you ever think you'd say that? All you need to know is the Jets had one drive of 15 plays and another of 16 plays. The Jets? And what was with the DB's playing off the Jet receivers? Pennington throws the ball about as hard as I can with my LEFT hand. They should have pressed coverage and gone after his "balloon" passes. How many times did you see him float one all the way accross the field to a wide open receiver who was then able to turn and run before the DB could even get near him?
IF MCDANIELS ISN'T FIRED TOMORROW, THEN BELICHICK HAS NO INTENTION OF WINNING ANOTHER GAME.
I've got a new cheer for Pats fans when playing the Jets. J. O. S. H. SUCKS SUCKS SUCKS.
Hmmm let's see...the Jets successfully blitz on every pass play beating the snot out of Brady and Dillon is running for like 12 yds a carry...what sorts of plays should we run on offense?
McDaniels (also insert Cletus from the Simpsons): run Maroney and throw deep!!!!!
Anyone with half a brain:Dillon hard up the gut and SCREENS AND DRAWS!!!!!!!SCREENS AND DRAWS!!!!!!!!!!
McDaniels: not one screen or draw ALL DAY!
Run the ball down to the goal line then pass pass pass. AND on top of that, line up in a formation where there is not even the THREAT of the run on the goal line. Hello? If you have to pass on the goal line, play action always works. Ask Mike Vrabel.
How about the 2 minute warning before half, we come back from commercial and Brady has to call a timeout because he doesn't have a play! Good job Cletus!
Here's my favorite one though. Last week against Indy, Bob Sanders safety blitz in running situations came through untouched how many times? 5? 6?more? What does Mangini do? Running situation, safety blitz with Eric Coleman. How many times did you see HIM come through untouched?4?5? I'll tell you for a fact that he was second on the team with 8 tackles today. Did McDaniels learn anything from last week's game?
Who is the Green Bay Safety....Marquand Manuel. If he gets into the backfield next week, you need no further evidence that McDaniels SUCKS. You can't blame GB for trying the same thing that worked for two teams in a row, right? Will 'Cletus' McDaniels have an answer?
And PLEASE don't get me started on my friend seymour money...
I've got to stop before I have a stroke. But feel free to continue......
Who do they think they are, the Bruins? the Celtics?
Belichick was in over his head against Mangini today. He had NO ANSWER for the Jets offense. Did you ever think you'd say that? All you need to know is the Jets had one drive of 15 plays and another of 16 plays. The Jets? And what was with the DB's playing off the Jet receivers? Pennington throws the ball about as hard as I can with my LEFT hand. They should have pressed coverage and gone after his "balloon" passes. How many times did you see him float one all the way accross the field to a wide open receiver who was then able to turn and run before the DB could even get near him?
IF MCDANIELS ISN'T FIRED TOMORROW, THEN BELICHICK HAS NO INTENTION OF WINNING ANOTHER GAME.
I've got a new cheer for Pats fans when playing the Jets. J. O. S. H. SUCKS SUCKS SUCKS.
Hmmm let's see...the Jets successfully blitz on every pass play beating the snot out of Brady and Dillon is running for like 12 yds a carry...what sorts of plays should we run on offense?
McDaniels (also insert Cletus from the Simpsons): run Maroney and throw deep!!!!!
Anyone with half a brain:Dillon hard up the gut and SCREENS AND DRAWS!!!!!!!SCREENS AND DRAWS!!!!!!!!!!
McDaniels: not one screen or draw ALL DAY!
Run the ball down to the goal line then pass pass pass. AND on top of that, line up in a formation where there is not even the THREAT of the run on the goal line. Hello? If you have to pass on the goal line, play action always works. Ask Mike Vrabel.
How about the 2 minute warning before half, we come back from commercial and Brady has to call a timeout because he doesn't have a play! Good job Cletus!
Here's my favorite one though. Last week against Indy, Bob Sanders safety blitz in running situations came through untouched how many times? 5? 6?more? What does Mangini do? Running situation, safety blitz with Eric Coleman. How many times did you see HIM come through untouched?4?5? I'll tell you for a fact that he was second on the team with 8 tackles today. Did McDaniels learn anything from last week's game?
Who is the Green Bay Safety....Marquand Manuel. If he gets into the backfield next week, you need no further evidence that McDaniels SUCKS. You can't blame GB for trying the same thing that worked for two teams in a row, right? Will 'Cletus' McDaniels have an answer?
And PLEASE don't get me started on my friend seymour money...
I've got to stop before I have a stroke. But feel free to continue......
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Let's Get To It
We've got a LOT to cover today, so let's get to it.
FIRST, THE INDY GAME.
Indy was very impressive to me on Sunday night. Manning was fantastic, Harrison was un-human, and the defense really brought it. I think you'd expect their offense to be impressive, it always is. However, their defense really impressed me in this game. I'm not talking just the 5 turnovers. They out physicalled the Pats in this game. The hit hard and often, gang tackled and tried to create those turnovers. That's the way the Pats D used to treat the Colts offense in days of old when they'd beat the Colts. (both on the scoreboard and physically). The Pats never really hit anyone, they just tackled or watched the Colt players run out of bounds. They played soft. If ever Indy looked like they could win a Superbowl it is this year.
This post will be a return to the "get rid of McDaniels" campaign. I got a little soft on him when the Pats won a couple of games in a row but let's face it, the play calling against the Colts was just aweful. Once again, you might say they played soft. In the first half you saw 22 power running plays,to out physical and wear down Indy's D. However, they would run successfully to a point then give up and throw. Prime example is the first series of the game: After the cheap offensive pass interference call and it was 2nd and 21 Dillon runs for 10yds, Brady completes 2 in a row to Watson and Jackson. Then Maroney runs for 12, Maroney for 6 Dillon for 7, Dillon for 4 yds to the Indy 34. Then deep pass to triple coverage, ill advised pass intercepted. WHY PASS? On that series they were keeping Manning on the bench, and running for 39yds at 7.8yds per carry. Stick with it, it's working! If you think it was a good idea to try to go over the top, I'll give you that, but then the blame is squarely on Brady for a terrible throw. In the first half the Pats ran 22 times for 98 yds at 4.4 yds per carry. 22 more runs might have produce over 200 yds total for the game, right? "Yeah, but who wants that, let's get cute." That's what I imagine McDaniels saying at half time. Second half included a mere 11 more runs. ONLY 4 to Maroney, only THREE to Dillon. 4 of those rushes were draw plays to Faulk. WHAT THE FAULK!!!! Where was the POWER running game? No, get cute and try to use double fake reverse passes instead. The run was clearly effective, Brady clearly was not sharp, the recievers were obviously having a hard time getting open. What more evidence do you need to run the ball? Instead the Pats played scared because they thought Peyton would score a lot more and they felt inclined to abandon the run to try to win the game in a shootout. The only thing they shot was themselves in the foot. I'll be keeping a close eye on little Joshy.
SECOND, RODNEY
I don't think I have to tell you that the Pats will be in trouble without Rodney for the next 7-8 weeks. Let's not forget to route hardily against Seattle so we can get a high draft pick for Branch and maybe get a safety to eventually replace Rodney. That being said, I personally don't have faith in Pioli's ability to draft a safety. Who have they drafted?
Guss Scott, Dexter Reid and James Sanders, seen any of THOSE guys lately? This year they drafted Willie Andrews and he's been so good they turned him into a WR. Don't forget that Eugene Wilson was drafted as a corner and turned into a safety as a necessity. His play has steadily declined. Maybe they can get a new safety via free agency this off-season, Harrison worked out pretty well wouldn't you say?
THIRD, WHATS HAPPENED TO THIS TEAM AGAINST QUALITY OPPONENTS?
Remember when they could beat anyone? Do you still have that feeling, because I don't. In their last 16 games against teams over .500 the Pats are 8-8. EIGHT and freakin' EIGHT!
In their last 5 games against the Colts and Broncos the Pats are 0-5, been outscored 139-81, and have 12 turnovers. We'll all get back on the bandwagon when they Pats go 7-1 or 8-0 in the second half of the season, but until they actually win another 'Big' game they've got something to prove.
LASTLY, A MORE OPTOMISTIC, HAPPY BLOGGER
Things can only get better in the second half of the season. Not that 6-2 to start is bad, but we all know they could have played much better in every game, with the exception of Minnesota. This is what can go right the rest of the way:
1. Brady and the receivers will only get better. As the weeks go by they can work on getting on 'the same page' whatever that means.
2. Maroney and Jackson. It's becoming obvious that Maroney is the man in the backfield and it is a disgrace that he only got the ball 4 times in the second half vs Indy. He and Jackson will emerge as big time threats in this offense as the playoffs approach.
3. A rediculously easy schedule makes 8-0 the rest of the way a real possibility and 7-1 a probablility. I think 6-2 would be disappointing.
4. Belichick's history. Since 2000 the Pats are 27-21 in the first half of the season and 46-13 in the second half, including the 10-1 playoff record. It's hard to argue with those results.
I'll be looking to post my own midseason grades in the next day or two.
Don't forget to check out our friends at TheBruinsReport.blogspot.com for all your Bruins news and info, now with a podcast!
FIRST, THE INDY GAME.
Indy was very impressive to me on Sunday night. Manning was fantastic, Harrison was un-human, and the defense really brought it. I think you'd expect their offense to be impressive, it always is. However, their defense really impressed me in this game. I'm not talking just the 5 turnovers. They out physicalled the Pats in this game. The hit hard and often, gang tackled and tried to create those turnovers. That's the way the Pats D used to treat the Colts offense in days of old when they'd beat the Colts. (both on the scoreboard and physically). The Pats never really hit anyone, they just tackled or watched the Colt players run out of bounds. They played soft. If ever Indy looked like they could win a Superbowl it is this year.
This post will be a return to the "get rid of McDaniels" campaign. I got a little soft on him when the Pats won a couple of games in a row but let's face it, the play calling against the Colts was just aweful. Once again, you might say they played soft. In the first half you saw 22 power running plays,to out physical and wear down Indy's D. However, they would run successfully to a point then give up and throw. Prime example is the first series of the game: After the cheap offensive pass interference call and it was 2nd and 21 Dillon runs for 10yds, Brady completes 2 in a row to Watson and Jackson. Then Maroney runs for 12, Maroney for 6 Dillon for 7, Dillon for 4 yds to the Indy 34. Then deep pass to triple coverage, ill advised pass intercepted. WHY PASS? On that series they were keeping Manning on the bench, and running for 39yds at 7.8yds per carry. Stick with it, it's working! If you think it was a good idea to try to go over the top, I'll give you that, but then the blame is squarely on Brady for a terrible throw. In the first half the Pats ran 22 times for 98 yds at 4.4 yds per carry. 22 more runs might have produce over 200 yds total for the game, right? "Yeah, but who wants that, let's get cute." That's what I imagine McDaniels saying at half time. Second half included a mere 11 more runs. ONLY 4 to Maroney, only THREE to Dillon. 4 of those rushes were draw plays to Faulk. WHAT THE FAULK!!!! Where was the POWER running game? No, get cute and try to use double fake reverse passes instead. The run was clearly effective, Brady clearly was not sharp, the recievers were obviously having a hard time getting open. What more evidence do you need to run the ball? Instead the Pats played scared because they thought Peyton would score a lot more and they felt inclined to abandon the run to try to win the game in a shootout. The only thing they shot was themselves in the foot. I'll be keeping a close eye on little Joshy.
SECOND, RODNEY
I don't think I have to tell you that the Pats will be in trouble without Rodney for the next 7-8 weeks. Let's not forget to route hardily against Seattle so we can get a high draft pick for Branch and maybe get a safety to eventually replace Rodney. That being said, I personally don't have faith in Pioli's ability to draft a safety. Who have they drafted?
Guss Scott, Dexter Reid and James Sanders, seen any of THOSE guys lately? This year they drafted Willie Andrews and he's been so good they turned him into a WR. Don't forget that Eugene Wilson was drafted as a corner and turned into a safety as a necessity. His play has steadily declined. Maybe they can get a new safety via free agency this off-season, Harrison worked out pretty well wouldn't you say?
THIRD, WHATS HAPPENED TO THIS TEAM AGAINST QUALITY OPPONENTS?
Remember when they could beat anyone? Do you still have that feeling, because I don't. In their last 16 games against teams over .500 the Pats are 8-8. EIGHT and freakin' EIGHT!
In their last 5 games against the Colts and Broncos the Pats are 0-5, been outscored 139-81, and have 12 turnovers. We'll all get back on the bandwagon when they Pats go 7-1 or 8-0 in the second half of the season, but until they actually win another 'Big' game they've got something to prove.
LASTLY, A MORE OPTOMISTIC, HAPPY BLOGGER
Things can only get better in the second half of the season. Not that 6-2 to start is bad, but we all know they could have played much better in every game, with the exception of Minnesota. This is what can go right the rest of the way:
1. Brady and the receivers will only get better. As the weeks go by they can work on getting on 'the same page' whatever that means.
2. Maroney and Jackson. It's becoming obvious that Maroney is the man in the backfield and it is a disgrace that he only got the ball 4 times in the second half vs Indy. He and Jackson will emerge as big time threats in this offense as the playoffs approach.
3. A rediculously easy schedule makes 8-0 the rest of the way a real possibility and 7-1 a probablility. I think 6-2 would be disappointing.
4. Belichick's history. Since 2000 the Pats are 27-21 in the first half of the season and 46-13 in the second half, including the 10-1 playoff record. It's hard to argue with those results.
I'll be looking to post my own midseason grades in the next day or two.
Don't forget to check out our friends at TheBruinsReport.blogspot.com for all your Bruins news and info, now with a podcast!
Friday, November 03, 2006
Enough Already
This feud between the Pats and Indy is just getting stupid at this point. I mean, we're talking about grown men, not high school kids, so what's with these antics and what else will they do to each other before Sunday's game?
First, Polian (the Colts) complains about the Pats field and it gets torn up.
Then Belichick (or someone in with the Pats) requests extra security for Sundays game to protect their employees from Polian.
After that, because the Colts like to complain about opponents not being truthful with their injury reports, Belichicks injury report comes out with 17 guys listed as questionable (Brady again is probable) so the Colts can't complain that the Pats are hiding any injuries.
Not to be outdone, moments later the Colts injury report comes out with - 17 players all questionable.
Now the Pats have added 3 more to the questionable list.
Enough already. Grown men. National Football League. Get over yourselves. As they said in star wars, "This bickering is pointless." I wish the game was tonight, just to end the silliness.
What's next, Belichick fined for 'egging' Polians house on Halloween?
Here are five reasons why the Pats win Sunday night:
-Indy's hurt, Pats are healthy.
-Colts are last in the league in rushing yards allowed, Pats have the 2 headed monster and are 8th in rushing even without trying to run last week.
-If the Colts try to 'stuff' the run, Brady's going to burn the backup safeties.
-Dwight Freeney is always slower on grass
-Belichick has done a damn good job slowing the Colts offense when he has healthy players on D (and he does this time around).
I was reading a Colts blog www.stampedeblue.com and they're bitching and moaning about the lack of respect the media has for the Colts. They think that Tom Brady is the darling of the national media. Perception is everything. Seriously, it's a good site, so check it out.
First, Polian (the Colts) complains about the Pats field and it gets torn up.
Then Belichick (or someone in with the Pats) requests extra security for Sundays game to protect their employees from Polian.
After that, because the Colts like to complain about opponents not being truthful with their injury reports, Belichicks injury report comes out with 17 guys listed as questionable (Brady again is probable) so the Colts can't complain that the Pats are hiding any injuries.
Not to be outdone, moments later the Colts injury report comes out with - 17 players all questionable.
Now the Pats have added 3 more to the questionable list.
Enough already. Grown men. National Football League. Get over yourselves. As they said in star wars, "This bickering is pointless." I wish the game was tonight, just to end the silliness.
What's next, Belichick fined for 'egging' Polians house on Halloween?
Here are five reasons why the Pats win Sunday night:
-Indy's hurt, Pats are healthy.
-Colts are last in the league in rushing yards allowed, Pats have the 2 headed monster and are 8th in rushing even without trying to run last week.
-If the Colts try to 'stuff' the run, Brady's going to burn the backup safeties.
-Dwight Freeney is always slower on grass
-Belichick has done a damn good job slowing the Colts offense when he has healthy players on D (and he does this time around).
I was reading a Colts blog www.stampedeblue.com and they're bitching and moaning about the lack of respect the media has for the Colts. They think that Tom Brady is the darling of the national media. Perception is everything. Seriously, it's a good site, so check it out.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
It's Never Too Early...
Hindsight is always 20/20. I feel like an idiot because I didn't see it coming. The leagues #1 rush defense vs the Pats 2 headed rushing attack, right? It's so obvious now, attack through the air instead of banging your head against a wall. Dee Dee Dee, as Carlos Mencia would say. Great gameplan, terrific execution, but I still can't help but wonder if Minnesota was over-hyped. I mean, the only team they beat was Seattle without Hasselback and Alexander. Either way, Bellichick showed his mastery as he completely out-coached Brad Childress. It was another win and it puts the Pats in the drivers seat for playoff positioning. It's never too early to talk playoffs around here, right?
As the most casual pigskin fans know, the odds of reaching the superbowl quadruple as a #1 or 2 seed vs. a 3, 4, 5 or 6 seed. Last year being the exception of course. So the goal is always get to the playoffs, but if you can lock up a 1 or 2 you're in serious contention. With the win this week the Pats are now 6-1 and in that coveted #2 spot. Defeating Indy this week would make them #1 in the AFC, with home field advantage throughout the playoffs. Unfortunately, the playoffs don't start after the Indy game. While it would be great to have the #1 seed entering the playoffs, I simply don't see it happening - whether or not they beat the Colts this weekend. That being said, if the Colts beat the Pats this week, the Pats have NO chance at #1. Let's take a look at who's contending for the top 2 spots and their "losable" games the rest of the way:
INDY 7-0 home v. Cincy and Philly, @NE, @Dallas.
PATS 6-1 home v. Indy and Chicago
DENVER 5-2 SD twice, home to Seattle Cincy then @KC and Pitt
SAN DIEGO 5-2 Denver twice, KC at home then @Cincy and Seattle
RAVENS 5-2 Cincy and Pitt twice home v. Atlanta and @ KC
So MAYBE Indy loses 2 games the rest of the way, more than likely it'll be one.
The Pats would have to win every game the rest of the way, in which case they'd be 15-1, and the #1 seed by virtue of winning the head to head game with INDY. Sorry, it's too much to ask.
Pats will be 14 and 2, or at worst 13-3. AND therefore, the #2 seed.
The rest have virtually no shot at the #2 seed.
While Denver has the head t head tie breaker with the Pats, they already have one more loss than NE. With 2 to play with SD, @ a surging KC as well as CINCY and SEATTLE both of which will be fighing for their playoff lives. Should the Pats go 13-3 Denver has an outside chance to become the #2. But I can't see Denver only losing one more time.
San Diego is in a bit of turmoil with their star player suspended for 4 games. Their remaining schedule is almost identical to Denver's. Same scenario, they're going to lose more than one more game.
I give an outside chance to Baltimore even though I think their offense stinks. However, they'd have to sweep both games with Pitt and both games with Cincy. That doesn't usually happen in that division.
The conclusion is that, even losing to Indy and Chicago this month, the Pats will probably still earn the #2 seed as long as the win their "easy" games. That being said, even if the beat Indy this week, it's hard to see Indy losing a second time and the Pats would probably still get the #2 seed. I like the Pats chances at INDY for a superbowl berth. Who's better than Brady's 10-0 in domes?
Offensive stat of the week: Pats are #1 in the NFL in redzone TD % at 64.3%.
Defensive stat of the week: Pats are now 3rd in the NFL in points allowed behind Chicago and Denver.
So what about Indy this week?
If I couldn't see the answer last week, what makes you think I'll figure out this week's gameplan? Here's the semi-educated guess:
The Pats will be able to run (Indy's last in the league agianst the run). It just so happens that Indy's starting safeties are injured and probably won't play. Once the run is established, the Pats will control the game with play action. The untested, backup safeties will bite on the run and you'll see Ben Watson and Doug Gabriel and Chad Jackson over the top for big gains. Indys D will have no answer and the Pats will put up 35-40 points this week. Clock killin' Corey Dillon will come in and pound Indy in the fourth, eat up the clock and not give Indy the ball with 1:30 left like denver did.
The big question is how will the Pats D contain Indy? Belichick won't tell us, so we're going to have to wait and see. I do think the Pats will hold them to under 30 points even though the Pats D hasn't been tested like this before. I don't think this game will be a 'whoever has the ball last wins' type. The Pats win this one "running" away, same score as Indy beat them last year.
New England 40, Indy 21. The Patriots franchise just has that kind of karma.
Call me a homer, but tell your friends you heard it hear!
As the most casual pigskin fans know, the odds of reaching the superbowl quadruple as a #1 or 2 seed vs. a 3, 4, 5 or 6 seed. Last year being the exception of course. So the goal is always get to the playoffs, but if you can lock up a 1 or 2 you're in serious contention. With the win this week the Pats are now 6-1 and in that coveted #2 spot. Defeating Indy this week would make them #1 in the AFC, with home field advantage throughout the playoffs. Unfortunately, the playoffs don't start after the Indy game. While it would be great to have the #1 seed entering the playoffs, I simply don't see it happening - whether or not they beat the Colts this weekend. That being said, if the Colts beat the Pats this week, the Pats have NO chance at #1. Let's take a look at who's contending for the top 2 spots and their "losable" games the rest of the way:
INDY 7-0 home v. Cincy and Philly, @NE, @Dallas.
PATS 6-1 home v. Indy and Chicago
DENVER 5-2 SD twice, home to Seattle Cincy then @KC and Pitt
SAN DIEGO 5-2 Denver twice, KC at home then @Cincy and Seattle
RAVENS 5-2 Cincy and Pitt twice home v. Atlanta and @ KC
So MAYBE Indy loses 2 games the rest of the way, more than likely it'll be one.
The Pats would have to win every game the rest of the way, in which case they'd be 15-1, and the #1 seed by virtue of winning the head to head game with INDY. Sorry, it's too much to ask.
Pats will be 14 and 2, or at worst 13-3. AND therefore, the #2 seed.
The rest have virtually no shot at the #2 seed.
While Denver has the head t head tie breaker with the Pats, they already have one more loss than NE. With 2 to play with SD, @ a surging KC as well as CINCY and SEATTLE both of which will be fighing for their playoff lives. Should the Pats go 13-3 Denver has an outside chance to become the #2. But I can't see Denver only losing one more time.
San Diego is in a bit of turmoil with their star player suspended for 4 games. Their remaining schedule is almost identical to Denver's. Same scenario, they're going to lose more than one more game.
I give an outside chance to Baltimore even though I think their offense stinks. However, they'd have to sweep both games with Pitt and both games with Cincy. That doesn't usually happen in that division.
The conclusion is that, even losing to Indy and Chicago this month, the Pats will probably still earn the #2 seed as long as the win their "easy" games. That being said, even if the beat Indy this week, it's hard to see Indy losing a second time and the Pats would probably still get the #2 seed. I like the Pats chances at INDY for a superbowl berth. Who's better than Brady's 10-0 in domes?
Offensive stat of the week: Pats are #1 in the NFL in redzone TD % at 64.3%.
Defensive stat of the week: Pats are now 3rd in the NFL in points allowed behind Chicago and Denver.
So what about Indy this week?
If I couldn't see the answer last week, what makes you think I'll figure out this week's gameplan? Here's the semi-educated guess:
The Pats will be able to run (Indy's last in the league agianst the run). It just so happens that Indy's starting safeties are injured and probably won't play. Once the run is established, the Pats will control the game with play action. The untested, backup safeties will bite on the run and you'll see Ben Watson and Doug Gabriel and Chad Jackson over the top for big gains. Indys D will have no answer and the Pats will put up 35-40 points this week. Clock killin' Corey Dillon will come in and pound Indy in the fourth, eat up the clock and not give Indy the ball with 1:30 left like denver did.
The big question is how will the Pats D contain Indy? Belichick won't tell us, so we're going to have to wait and see. I do think the Pats will hold them to under 30 points even though the Pats D hasn't been tested like this before. I don't think this game will be a 'whoever has the ball last wins' type. The Pats win this one "running" away, same score as Indy beat them last year.
New England 40, Indy 21. The Patriots franchise just has that kind of karma.
Call me a homer, but tell your friends you heard it hear!
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Great Win, But...
Those of you that made the bus trip, I'm jealous, it was probably a great time to attend. Hopefully I'll get to go with you next season. It was a great win on Sunday, but should we take it with a grain of salt because the Bills aren't very good? The humble blog author says NO!
A division win is a division win. Did you know that the Pats are 29-7 in their division in the Brady era? Yes I know, the Pats have beaten the Bills by an average of 28 points when playing for the second time in a season. And yes I know that the Bills don't pose much of an offensive threat. (Maybe they can re-acquire Bledsoe now that he's been benched in big D.) However, the Pats showed some offense against a good Buffalo Defense which, I think is ranked 14th overall.
The Good.
-Maroney's kick return. He won AFC special teams player of the week.
-The secondary: Asante goes without saying, but solid perforamces were turned in by all.
-Vince Wilfork. Let me expand on this for a moment. Do you remember the play early in third quarter, when Seau burst through the line and tackled McGahee for a 3 yard loss? If you taped the game, watch Wilfork on that play. Wilfork was blocked by the center, and the weakside guard was pulling to block the linebacker (Seau) in the hole McGahee was designed to run in. Wilfork saw the gaurd pull, got leverage on the center and moved close enough to the gap that the pulling gaurd had no choice but to double team Wilfork. Seau, now unblocked runs through the gap and looks like a hero.
-It was great to see Jackson get so open on his TD
-How about Gabriel's TD catch on a ball that should never have been thrown?
-Watson's 6 catches for 50 yards. (But it always seems like he either breaks every tackle or goes right down on first contact.)
The Bad
-The offensive tackles were aweful. Brady was getting hammered out there.
-While they finally scored a TD on a first posession, I thought the play calling was horrendous until miday through the 3rd Quarter. If the Pass rush is that fierce and Brady is getting hurried on every pass play, why not slow down the pass rush? Any NFL, college or high school coach will tell you that the best way to slow a pass rush is with screens and draws. I can remember one screen pass, and it was to Ben Watson. It turned out to be a decent game of play calling thanks to the 3rd quarter, but I'm still VERY weary of McDaniels.
-Hey, that's all I can complain about!
The Ugly
Roseanne Barr naked.
Here's where the Pats rank thusfar this season:
RushingYards per game -- 6th (131.5)Yards allowed per game -- 6th (83.8)
TurnoversDifferential -- tied-9th (plus-3 -- 9 takeaways; 6 giveaways)
PointsScored -- 10th (22.6)Allowed -- 4th (13.3)
Third down efficiencyConverted -- 8th (41.9 percent)Allowed -- 16th (37.8 percent)
Red zone efficiencyTDs scored -- 2nd (63.6 percent)TDs allowed -- 10th (42.9 percent)
Pretty amazing stats.
As Peter King would write, "10 things I think I think."
1. the Pats may be a dangerous offensive team come playoff time if Gabriel and Jackson continue to progress.
2. the Defense is good, but I'm not convinced that they are superbowl calliber.
3. the D can really prove itself next Sunday night against the league, I mean, Peyton Manning.
4. Stephen Neal is a very under-rated gaurd.
5. Maroney's gonna light it up back in Minnesota
6. the divorce rate would go down significantly if they took women out of the workplace (just a theory)
7. the Pats will win the superbowl as long as someone else knocks out Denver.
8. Rodney Harrison should be a first ballot hall of famer.
9. Rodney Harrison will not be inducted to the hall of fame.
FACT: Rodney Harrison is the ONLY PLAYER IN NFL HISTORY to record at least 30 INT's (31)and 25 sacks (28).
10. I think you should tell your friends to read this blog. (not that I'm counting)
Did you hear the latest on the Pats/Indy feud?
First the background: Indy's GM/president is Bill Polian. He hates the Pats. He built the current Indy team, starting with drafting Marvin Harrison right up to now. He's also a hot-head. When Indy played at the Jets on Oct. 1, Polian accused the Jets of turning up the stadium speakers when Peyton had the ball. He was so pissed, he threw a Jets employee into a wall.
Second, the action: Polian has heard rumors of the Pats shitty field. Well, he put in a formal complaint with the league, siting the Gillette Stadium turf being below NFL standards. The league then sent officials out to see the field and are making them tear up the field and re-sod BEFORE next Sundays home game against Indy. Did I tell you the league loves Peyton? (Look, I agree that the field sucks, but other teams have had to play on it so far this year, why should it HAVE to change now, right before Indy arrives?)
Last, revenge the Belichick way: Belichick put a request in to the NFL to provide extra security for the Indy game to protect the Patriot's employees! Slap in the face to Polian and I for one love it!
I'm having trouble figuring out the Minnesota match-ups, but I have a feeling that the Pats are going to win this one going away.
A division win is a division win. Did you know that the Pats are 29-7 in their division in the Brady era? Yes I know, the Pats have beaten the Bills by an average of 28 points when playing for the second time in a season. And yes I know that the Bills don't pose much of an offensive threat. (Maybe they can re-acquire Bledsoe now that he's been benched in big D.) However, the Pats showed some offense against a good Buffalo Defense which, I think is ranked 14th overall.
The Good.
-Maroney's kick return. He won AFC special teams player of the week.
-The secondary: Asante goes without saying, but solid perforamces were turned in by all.
-Vince Wilfork. Let me expand on this for a moment. Do you remember the play early in third quarter, when Seau burst through the line and tackled McGahee for a 3 yard loss? If you taped the game, watch Wilfork on that play. Wilfork was blocked by the center, and the weakside guard was pulling to block the linebacker (Seau) in the hole McGahee was designed to run in. Wilfork saw the gaurd pull, got leverage on the center and moved close enough to the gap that the pulling gaurd had no choice but to double team Wilfork. Seau, now unblocked runs through the gap and looks like a hero.
-It was great to see Jackson get so open on his TD
-How about Gabriel's TD catch on a ball that should never have been thrown?
-Watson's 6 catches for 50 yards. (But it always seems like he either breaks every tackle or goes right down on first contact.)
The Bad
-The offensive tackles were aweful. Brady was getting hammered out there.
-While they finally scored a TD on a first posession, I thought the play calling was horrendous until miday through the 3rd Quarter. If the Pass rush is that fierce and Brady is getting hurried on every pass play, why not slow down the pass rush? Any NFL, college or high school coach will tell you that the best way to slow a pass rush is with screens and draws. I can remember one screen pass, and it was to Ben Watson. It turned out to be a decent game of play calling thanks to the 3rd quarter, but I'm still VERY weary of McDaniels.
-Hey, that's all I can complain about!
The Ugly
Roseanne Barr naked.
Here's where the Pats rank thusfar this season:
RushingYards per game -- 6th (131.5)Yards allowed per game -- 6th (83.8)
TurnoversDifferential -- tied-9th (plus-3 -- 9 takeaways; 6 giveaways)
PointsScored -- 10th (22.6)Allowed -- 4th (13.3)
Third down efficiencyConverted -- 8th (41.9 percent)Allowed -- 16th (37.8 percent)
Red zone efficiencyTDs scored -- 2nd (63.6 percent)TDs allowed -- 10th (42.9 percent)
Pretty amazing stats.
As Peter King would write, "10 things I think I think."
1. the Pats may be a dangerous offensive team come playoff time if Gabriel and Jackson continue to progress.
2. the Defense is good, but I'm not convinced that they are superbowl calliber.
3. the D can really prove itself next Sunday night against the league, I mean, Peyton Manning.
4. Stephen Neal is a very under-rated gaurd.
5. Maroney's gonna light it up back in Minnesota
6. the divorce rate would go down significantly if they took women out of the workplace (just a theory)
7. the Pats will win the superbowl as long as someone else knocks out Denver.
8. Rodney Harrison should be a first ballot hall of famer.
9. Rodney Harrison will not be inducted to the hall of fame.
FACT: Rodney Harrison is the ONLY PLAYER IN NFL HISTORY to record at least 30 INT's (31)and 25 sacks (28).
10. I think you should tell your friends to read this blog. (not that I'm counting)
Did you hear the latest on the Pats/Indy feud?
First the background: Indy's GM/president is Bill Polian. He hates the Pats. He built the current Indy team, starting with drafting Marvin Harrison right up to now. He's also a hot-head. When Indy played at the Jets on Oct. 1, Polian accused the Jets of turning up the stadium speakers when Peyton had the ball. He was so pissed, he threw a Jets employee into a wall.
Second, the action: Polian has heard rumors of the Pats shitty field. Well, he put in a formal complaint with the league, siting the Gillette Stadium turf being below NFL standards. The league then sent officials out to see the field and are making them tear up the field and re-sod BEFORE next Sundays home game against Indy. Did I tell you the league loves Peyton? (Look, I agree that the field sucks, but other teams have had to play on it so far this year, why should it HAVE to change now, right before Indy arrives?)
Last, revenge the Belichick way: Belichick put a request in to the NFL to provide extra security for the Indy game to protect the Patriot's employees! Slap in the face to Polian and I for one love it!
I'm having trouble figuring out the Minnesota match-ups, but I have a feeling that the Pats are going to win this one going away.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Just Bitchin' don't know why I'm in a bad mood....
First, I hope you guys aren't reading this blog as one big complaint about the Pats. There were many positives covered in the last post. You can't tell me though, that any of you are satisfied with the way the offense has been playing. If it weren't for the turnovers, they would have lost 10-3.
And somebody explain to me how Miami is a "quality opponent". They lost to a bad, Rothlesberger-less Steelers team, lost to Buffalo at home, barely squeaked by the Titans at home, lost to Houston and they have no QB. Additionally, I can't find a power ranking with the Dolphins ranked higher than 24th. My apologies to the previous commenter, I just don's agree with what you said.
While I'm bitchin, what the hell is wrong with the field at Gillette? They've got million dollar drainage and heating systems under that thing, but they can't grow grass because thesoccer team plays there once a week? If any of you have been to Gillette to watch practice, the 2 practice fields (the ones they practice on and 'tear up' every day) are in pristine condition. I mean they look like fairways! There is no reason why, if they wanted to, they couldn't have perfect grass - we all know they have the money to re-sod that thing every week if they had to. Speaking of, have you seen the new dome stadium they built in Arizona? It's natural grass. In the dome. After the game, they entire grass surface gets slid out the side of the dome for sunshine and watering. On Sunday morning they roll it back inside. How cool is that?
I'm out of here. Going to Florida next week, feel free to tear me up while I'm gone.
And somebody explain to me how Miami is a "quality opponent". They lost to a bad, Rothlesberger-less Steelers team, lost to Buffalo at home, barely squeaked by the Titans at home, lost to Houston and they have no QB. Additionally, I can't find a power ranking with the Dolphins ranked higher than 24th. My apologies to the previous commenter, I just don's agree with what you said.
While I'm bitchin, what the hell is wrong with the field at Gillette? They've got million dollar drainage and heating systems under that thing, but they can't grow grass because thesoccer team plays there once a week? If any of you have been to Gillette to watch practice, the 2 practice fields (the ones they practice on and 'tear up' every day) are in pristine condition. I mean they look like fairways! There is no reason why, if they wanted to, they couldn't have perfect grass - we all know they have the money to re-sod that thing every week if they had to. Speaking of, have you seen the new dome stadium they built in Arizona? It's natural grass. In the dome. After the game, they entire grass surface gets slid out the side of the dome for sunshine and watering. On Sunday morning they roll it back inside. How cool is that?
I'm out of here. Going to Florida next week, feel free to tear me up while I'm gone.
Monday, October 09, 2006
UG - LY
Per Barry's request, a Monday Post:
Ugly. The only way to describe yesterdays 20-10 victory over the 'phins. Granted, a win is a win - just ask Indy.
3 Key Plays:
Harrison forcing the Ronnie Brown fumble
Samuel's first INT
Mike Wright's blocked fieldgoal.
My favorite play:
Watson's catch of the game in which he caught the ball on thrd down at the line of scrimmage, threw jason Taylor to the ground, sidestepped a defender and ran over the cornerback for a first down.
Offensive player of the game:
Troy (3rd down) Brown. 5 catches, 60 yds, a TD and 4 first downs.
Defensive player of the game:
Asante Samuel. While one of his picks was pure luck, in my book 2 INT's will win player of the game any week.
Looking good:
The 'bend but don't Break' Defense is starting to resemble the SB defenses of years past. I'm still furious at their lack of pass rush though.
Looking bad:
The anemic offense. If Watson's so good, why can't he get open? Does anyone else play WR besides Brown? What's up with Brady's inconsistancy (one play he's pinpoint accurate, the next he's throwing at the receiver's feet)? I'm not so happy with Doogy Houser, I mean Josh McDaniels' play calling. It seemed like the entire second half the Pats ran straight up the middle, then threw on 2nd and 3rd downs. They only played Maroney and they insited on running him up the gut. Get him outside in space where he can make people miss. (see New Orleans and Reggie Bush) Anyway, the play calling was WAY too predictable. One shot downfield and Brady's longest completion was only 15 yds.
Here's the drive summary for 4 straight pats drives beginning in the 3rd quarter just to prove my play calling point:
Drive 1
1st-Maroney 2yd run
2nd-inc pass
3rd- pass Watson for 1st down
1st-Maroney 1yd run
2nd-inc pass
3rd inc pass
PUNT
Drive 2
1st-Dillon 2yd run
2nd-4yd pass Watson
3rd-15yd completion to Brown for 1st down
PASS 15yds Faulk
PASS14yds Brown
PASS Watson 2 yds
PASS inc
PASS inc
PUNT
Drive 3
1st-Maroney 2yds
2nd-inc pass
3rd-inc pass
PUNT
Drive 4
1st Maroney 2yds
PENALTY MIAMI- 1st down
1st Maroneyno gain
2nd inc pass
3rd Pass Thomas 11yds - 1st down.
then they ran the clock:
1st Maroney 1 yd
2nd Marone 4yds
3rd Maroney 2 yds.
AARRGGGHHH!!!!!!!!Do you see a trend here or is it just me? When's the last time you saw a screen pass? Did they even bother to play action yesterday?
In breaking news, the Pats have signed 5th year receiver Jabar Gaffney. I don't know why he is a street free agent, but he had 55 catches last year for Houston. They also released Johnathan Sullivan and Hank (little) Poteat.
Comments?
Ugly. The only way to describe yesterdays 20-10 victory over the 'phins. Granted, a win is a win - just ask Indy.
3 Key Plays:
Harrison forcing the Ronnie Brown fumble
Samuel's first INT
Mike Wright's blocked fieldgoal.
My favorite play:
Watson's catch of the game in which he caught the ball on thrd down at the line of scrimmage, threw jason Taylor to the ground, sidestepped a defender and ran over the cornerback for a first down.
Offensive player of the game:
Troy (3rd down) Brown. 5 catches, 60 yds, a TD and 4 first downs.
Defensive player of the game:
Asante Samuel. While one of his picks was pure luck, in my book 2 INT's will win player of the game any week.
Looking good:
The 'bend but don't Break' Defense is starting to resemble the SB defenses of years past. I'm still furious at their lack of pass rush though.
Looking bad:
The anemic offense. If Watson's so good, why can't he get open? Does anyone else play WR besides Brown? What's up with Brady's inconsistancy (one play he's pinpoint accurate, the next he's throwing at the receiver's feet)? I'm not so happy with Doogy Houser, I mean Josh McDaniels' play calling. It seemed like the entire second half the Pats ran straight up the middle, then threw on 2nd and 3rd downs. They only played Maroney and they insited on running him up the gut. Get him outside in space where he can make people miss. (see New Orleans and Reggie Bush) Anyway, the play calling was WAY too predictable. One shot downfield and Brady's longest completion was only 15 yds.
Here's the drive summary for 4 straight pats drives beginning in the 3rd quarter just to prove my play calling point:
Drive 1
1st-Maroney 2yd run
2nd-inc pass
3rd- pass Watson for 1st down
1st-Maroney 1yd run
2nd-inc pass
3rd inc pass
PUNT
Drive 2
1st-Dillon 2yd run
2nd-4yd pass Watson
3rd-15yd completion to Brown for 1st down
PASS 15yds Faulk
PASS14yds Brown
PASS Watson 2 yds
PASS inc
PASS inc
PUNT
Drive 3
1st-Maroney 2yds
2nd-inc pass
3rd-inc pass
PUNT
Drive 4
1st Maroney 2yds
PENALTY MIAMI- 1st down
1st Maroneyno gain
2nd inc pass
3rd Pass Thomas 11yds - 1st down.
then they ran the clock:
1st Maroney 1 yd
2nd Marone 4yds
3rd Maroney 2 yds.
AARRGGGHHH!!!!!!!!Do you see a trend here or is it just me? When's the last time you saw a screen pass? Did they even bother to play action yesterday?
In breaking news, the Pats have signed 5th year receiver Jabar Gaffney. I don't know why he is a street free agent, but he had 55 catches last year for Houston. They also released Johnathan Sullivan and Hank (little) Poteat.
Comments?
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Kool Aid...
Don't you just love watching Laurence Maroney run the football? Nothing against Dillon, but I personally haven't been this excited about a running back since Curtis Martin's rookie year. I have a lot to say in this post, but not all in a particular category, so I'm just going to list them out, point by point.
Barry, I know you'd like to see a post on Monday...I'm not sure I could do it, but if I did what do you want? I'm not giving a game summary. How about key plays, best player and observations? I could also just post 'blank' game blogs and let all of YOU post your monday morning thoughts.
It's really amazing what one game can do to the confidence of patriots fans and the media. For 3 weeks we heard that Brady's not Brady and after the Denver loss we heard that the team was in trouble. As it turns out, the Denver fiasco was just one game. Denver really does have something on the pats and from the teams I've seen, they have to be the superbowl favorite hands down.
Kudos to the patchwork secondary. With Hobbs and Wilson out no one gave them a chance to cover Johnson and Whosyourmamma, but somehow they did. Maybe Poteat and Scott and Hawkins should have been the starters all along!
A+ to the coaches for the gameplan. I'm not as much of an X's and O's guy as I'd like to be, and the camera angles we get on TV don't allow us to see the 'exotic' coverages, but whatever they did in the scheme seemed to work very well. This was also the first game that I liked the Offensive play calling. I loved the direct snap to Faulk reverse to Jackson, that was a nice wrinkle on a play we've seen numerous times.
I hope the Pats got wind of the Carson Palmer post game comments. He was disappointed that his team didn't play well against a team they should beat and will beat when they play again. How'd that turf taste Carson?
The least glamorous guys - the ones in the trenches are playing great on both sides of the ball. Green had a monster game (3 sacks, forced fumble and fumble recovery) and Warren was right behind him (2 sacks forced fumble, fumble recovery). But let's not forget the O-Line in this game. 236 rushing yards, a 5.8 yd avg and no sacks and only 5 hurries on 26 pass attempts. This with the likes of Wesley Britt (WHO??) starting at right tackle. Britt played at Alabama and was drafted in the fifth round in 2005 by the Chargers. He was released in January and the Pats signed him to their practice squad. Roll Tide!
Through one-fourth of the season the Pats are in the top ten in the following statistical categories as noted on Mike Reis' Blog:
* Punt coverage -- 1st in the NFL Opponents averaging just 1.5 yards per return
* First downs -- 2ndWith 91, only the Colts (96) have more
* Rushing yards per game -- 3rdWith Laurence Maroney (60 carries) and Corey Dillon (58 carries) essentially splitting duties 50-50, the team is averaging 154 rushing yards per outing (only the Falcons and Chargers are better)
* Net punting -- 3rdJosh Miller makes an early statement among AFC punters for Pro Bowl consideration with an impressive 41.4 net
* Sacks allowed per pass play -- 4thTom Brady has dropped back to pass 137 times and only been sacked four times
* Punt return average -- 4thKevin Faulk's career average is 8.3 yards, but he's at 13.4 at this point
* Points allowed -- tied-7thThe most important stat of all: the Patriots are holding foes to 16 points per game
* Third-down offense -- tied-9thTeam has converted 23 of 56 third downs, for a 41.1 percent success rate
Looking ahead to Miami, the Pats should beat this team with the same 38-13 score as last week, however, the Dolphins are a division opponent and they are a desperate team. They really need to win or their season may be over. Expect them to come out with everything they've got, a desperate team is a dangerous team. Watch for the same gameplan that Denver employed, loading the box with 8-9 guys to stop the run and force Brady to find his chemistry with the receivers or lose the game.
Pats 17-13.
Barry, I know you'd like to see a post on Monday...I'm not sure I could do it, but if I did what do you want? I'm not giving a game summary. How about key plays, best player and observations? I could also just post 'blank' game blogs and let all of YOU post your monday morning thoughts.
It's really amazing what one game can do to the confidence of patriots fans and the media. For 3 weeks we heard that Brady's not Brady and after the Denver loss we heard that the team was in trouble. As it turns out, the Denver fiasco was just one game. Denver really does have something on the pats and from the teams I've seen, they have to be the superbowl favorite hands down.
Kudos to the patchwork secondary. With Hobbs and Wilson out no one gave them a chance to cover Johnson and Whosyourmamma, but somehow they did. Maybe Poteat and Scott and Hawkins should have been the starters all along!
A+ to the coaches for the gameplan. I'm not as much of an X's and O's guy as I'd like to be, and the camera angles we get on TV don't allow us to see the 'exotic' coverages, but whatever they did in the scheme seemed to work very well. This was also the first game that I liked the Offensive play calling. I loved the direct snap to Faulk reverse to Jackson, that was a nice wrinkle on a play we've seen numerous times.
I hope the Pats got wind of the Carson Palmer post game comments. He was disappointed that his team didn't play well against a team they should beat and will beat when they play again. How'd that turf taste Carson?
The least glamorous guys - the ones in the trenches are playing great on both sides of the ball. Green had a monster game (3 sacks, forced fumble and fumble recovery) and Warren was right behind him (2 sacks forced fumble, fumble recovery). But let's not forget the O-Line in this game. 236 rushing yards, a 5.8 yd avg and no sacks and only 5 hurries on 26 pass attempts. This with the likes of Wesley Britt (WHO??) starting at right tackle. Britt played at Alabama and was drafted in the fifth round in 2005 by the Chargers. He was released in January and the Pats signed him to their practice squad. Roll Tide!
Through one-fourth of the season the Pats are in the top ten in the following statistical categories as noted on Mike Reis' Blog:
* Punt coverage -- 1st in the NFL Opponents averaging just 1.5 yards per return
* First downs -- 2ndWith 91, only the Colts (96) have more
* Rushing yards per game -- 3rdWith Laurence Maroney (60 carries) and Corey Dillon (58 carries) essentially splitting duties 50-50, the team is averaging 154 rushing yards per outing (only the Falcons and Chargers are better)
* Net punting -- 3rdJosh Miller makes an early statement among AFC punters for Pro Bowl consideration with an impressive 41.4 net
* Sacks allowed per pass play -- 4thTom Brady has dropped back to pass 137 times and only been sacked four times
* Punt return average -- 4thKevin Faulk's career average is 8.3 yards, but he's at 13.4 at this point
* Points allowed -- tied-7thThe most important stat of all: the Patriots are holding foes to 16 points per game
* Third-down offense -- tied-9thTeam has converted 23 of 56 third downs, for a 41.1 percent success rate
Looking ahead to Miami, the Pats should beat this team with the same 38-13 score as last week, however, the Dolphins are a division opponent and they are a desperate team. They really need to win or their season may be over. Expect them to come out with everything they've got, a desperate team is a dangerous team. Watch for the same gameplan that Denver employed, loading the box with 8-9 guys to stop the run and force Brady to find his chemistry with the receivers or lose the game.
Pats 17-13.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
The State of the Patriots
It's one game.
As a matter of fact, is anyone really surprised that the Pats lost to Denver? That's 3 in a row and 5 of the last 6. Denver is the team that has the Pats #. And as bad as it was to watch, had Gostkowski made his field goal, the Pats would have been driving to tie the game at the end. I almost wish my Tom freakin' Brady article was this week the way the media has been going on about his sulking, hanging his head, looking uncomfortable, making bad throws, throwing the ball away, lack of leadership, etc. As long as they continue to improve week by week they'll be fine. Isn't it better to play great in December than September? Let's look at some bright spots fromt his game shall we?
Who was the guy wearing #26 this week? He looked nothing like the guy who wore #26 the first 2 weeks of the season. He was awesome, making 13 tackles. He had one in particular with the fullback trying to block him, in which he ducked under the block and made a sure tackle on Tatum Bell.
How about the play of Ty Warren, AGAIN! Another solid performance leading the D-Line in tackles.
Wasn't it nice to see Doug Gabriel get some catches? I think he led the team with 6 receptions for 66 yards and a nice TD catch. (Caldwell wasn't great, but he is still showing signs of improvement.)
Did you see the perfect throw Brady made to Brown on the flea flicker? Brown's got to come up with that, Brady put it right in his hands- great throw!
I think that Maroney will learn from this game, though I don't think he was that bad. Many reports talk about him dancing instead of running. Where the F@&% was he supposed to run? Everytime he got the ball he was met in the backfield. He had the play of the game for the pats on that little dump pass when he bounced off the linebacker and ran for 30 yards.
There. I hope that helps everyone get back on the bandwagon. Yes, they'll probably get beat this week too, but let's hope for steady improvement. And PLEASE, don't blame Brady. What would Manning do with out Harrison and Wayne? What would Palmer do without Johnson and Whoseyourmomma? Give it time to develop, the offense will click by December, when they need it to. In the meantime, when you go to the games remind the powers that be that they are 10 million under the cap and that 30 year old McDaniels play calling sucks and that the O-Line has been over-rated by the local media. Cheer for Tom, he's the best player the Patriots have ever had.
As a matter of fact, is anyone really surprised that the Pats lost to Denver? That's 3 in a row and 5 of the last 6. Denver is the team that has the Pats #. And as bad as it was to watch, had Gostkowski made his field goal, the Pats would have been driving to tie the game at the end. I almost wish my Tom freakin' Brady article was this week the way the media has been going on about his sulking, hanging his head, looking uncomfortable, making bad throws, throwing the ball away, lack of leadership, etc. As long as they continue to improve week by week they'll be fine. Isn't it better to play great in December than September? Let's look at some bright spots fromt his game shall we?
Who was the guy wearing #26 this week? He looked nothing like the guy who wore #26 the first 2 weeks of the season. He was awesome, making 13 tackles. He had one in particular with the fullback trying to block him, in which he ducked under the block and made a sure tackle on Tatum Bell.
How about the play of Ty Warren, AGAIN! Another solid performance leading the D-Line in tackles.
Wasn't it nice to see Doug Gabriel get some catches? I think he led the team with 6 receptions for 66 yards and a nice TD catch. (Caldwell wasn't great, but he is still showing signs of improvement.)
Did you see the perfect throw Brady made to Brown on the flea flicker? Brown's got to come up with that, Brady put it right in his hands- great throw!
I think that Maroney will learn from this game, though I don't think he was that bad. Many reports talk about him dancing instead of running. Where the F@&% was he supposed to run? Everytime he got the ball he was met in the backfield. He had the play of the game for the pats on that little dump pass when he bounced off the linebacker and ran for 30 yards.
There. I hope that helps everyone get back on the bandwagon. Yes, they'll probably get beat this week too, but let's hope for steady improvement. And PLEASE, don't blame Brady. What would Manning do with out Harrison and Wayne? What would Palmer do without Johnson and Whoseyourmomma? Give it time to develop, the offense will click by December, when they need it to. In the meantime, when you go to the games remind the powers that be that they are 10 million under the cap and that 30 year old McDaniels play calling sucks and that the O-Line has been over-rated by the local media. Cheer for Tom, he's the best player the Patriots have ever had.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
I'm Tom freakin' Brady....
"I'm Tom freakin' Brady..." It was suggested by a sports radio caller that Brady should open his press conferences with that statement. It is in response to the media and those fans who have been critical of his performance in the first 2 games. People who, evidently have forgotten that Tom Brady is indeed human and in their own minds Tom Brady has a perfect QB rating and 4 TD's a game without missing one throw. Wrong. Tom Brady IS human. One of the post game TV shows actually ran a poll asking the fans to grade Brady's performance for the first two games and the 'experts' were giving him low grades! I refer you to the blog I posted on August 2nd where I asked you to give Brady some slack. For the reasons mentioned in that post, we need to give him a break. Yes he had 2 average performances, but the Pats ARE undefeated. Who can blame Brady for being noticeably upset by the departure of his favorite receiver and best friend on the team? To his credit though, he hasn't complained, rather he's gone to work with his new receivers-even when he really didn't want to.
A story was published after Sunday's game about how NFL players are creatures of habit, especially on game day where they go through the same routine almost to the minute. During Brady's pre game routine he was in the locker room when approached by Jackson who asked him to go out on the field and throw him some balls. Brady declined, but the reporter later noticed Brady out on the field throwing balls to Jackson. It speaks volumes for Brady, as if we'd ever doubt his work ethic. Some of the media actually get that.
Take Peter King for example in his review of the week 2 games:
Remember when Brady was "just a game manager"? Remember how excited we would have been 3 years ago if Brady did what he did last Sunday? They beat the Jets on the road, they are 2-0 and more imprtantly 2-0 IN THE DIVISION. This week he gets his chance for revenge. You don't think he's forgotten about the one and only playoff loss of his career do you? No matter if he throws 3 picks or 3 TD's this weekend, you can bet that Tom Brady will find a way to win this one. He is, afterall, Tom freakin' Brady.
A story was published after Sunday's game about how NFL players are creatures of habit, especially on game day where they go through the same routine almost to the minute. During Brady's pre game routine he was in the locker room when approached by Jackson who asked him to go out on the field and throw him some balls. Brady declined, but the reporter later noticed Brady out on the field throwing balls to Jackson. It speaks volumes for Brady, as if we'd ever doubt his work ethic. Some of the media actually get that.
Take Peter King for example in his review of the week 2 games:
The new Brady Bunch. This was just before 8 p.m. on Sunday
night, and Brady sounded like the man who'd just lost a game to the Jets, not won. "This was a long day,'' he told me, winding down after New England's survivalist 24-17 win over the Jets. "I'm very tired.'' New England almost blew a 24-0 lead, enduring a late blocked field goal by Jonathan Vilma and a frenzied Jets rally to hang on.Brady is the guy who has to make everything right on the field after all of the Patriots' free-agency losses and contract-related crap, and it's an exhausting job. But you know what? He just does it. No wonder the Patriots' management and coaching staff thinks they'll always be OK with Brady behind center. He bails them out continuously. Look at what happened in the fourth quarter of this one. With 9:20 to go, New England was grimly trying to hold on to a 24-17 lead and took the ball at its 30. Bleed the clock. That was Brady's job. With 7:51 left, on third-and-five, he hit Reche Caldwell for six. With 6:00 left, from the shotgun, on third-and-five again, he dumped it to Kevin Faulk for six. Tick, tick, tick. With 4:08 left, from the shotgun again on third-and-seven, he threw to Troy Brown, who burrowed for eight.
Notice the pattern? They need five, they get six. They need seven, they get eight. They converted another first down, bled the clock some more, then got into position for the clinching field goal. It was blocked, but Brady had done his job. He'd taken new England 63 yards downfield, but more importantly, he'd taken eight minutes and 15 seconds off the clock ... and he'd done it, amazingly, with the Jets burning all three timeouts and the two-minute warning stopping the clock another time.
The numbers say Brady had a pedestrian game (15 of 29, 220 yards, one touchdown, one pick), but he led his team to a 24-0 lead on the road,
then helped the Pats survive with that drive. "We're a long way from being where we need to be,'' he said. "A long way. There're times we don't look so good. We've got to be able to put the nail in the coffin. But that's what happens with a new team.'' That's what this group feels like, a new team.
Remember when Brady was "just a game manager"? Remember how excited we would have been 3 years ago if Brady did what he did last Sunday? They beat the Jets on the road, they are 2-0 and more imprtantly 2-0 IN THE DIVISION. This week he gets his chance for revenge. You don't think he's forgotten about the one and only playoff loss of his career do you? No matter if he throws 3 picks or 3 TD's this weekend, you can bet that Tom Brady will find a way to win this one. He is, afterall, Tom freakin' Brady.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Rich Bitch
The Deion Branch saga has finally come to a close, he is the rich bitch. But don't blame the Pats for this, blame the NFL system. When Branch was drafted, the NFL rules allowd 2nd round picks to sign deals as long as 5 years and that's what BOTH parties agreed to. In today's NFL a 2nd rounder can only sign up to 4 yrs but that doesn't matter in this case. What does matter is that the rich bitch was under contract, the one that has HIS signature on it and he should be starting for the Pats this Sunday. It sets a bad precident for the likes of Ben Watson who has a 6 year rookie deal. He must be thinking that if he has a good season this year he won't come to camp, the Pats will trade him and he'll be a rich bitch too!
I personally do not think Bill and Scott would have traded Branch so quickly unless they know what they've got will work. That means Gabriel and Jackson must be doing something right in practice. Neither of them will catch 78 balls for 900+ yards, but it is quite conceivable that one of them will have more than 4 TD's isn't it.
The Pats will tell you that, on paper, they got great value. A 65th pick overall that they got four years of good production from and helped them win superbowls has translated into a 1st rounder, no worse than 32nd overall. That's twice the value on draft day, I don't think any team would trade any first round pick for the 65th pick.
As far as the trade's impact on this team, I expect a loss this week. A bad loss. The comments coming out of the locker room are all supportive of Branch. The wind is out of their sails. Do you remember a guy named Lawyer Milloy? Of course you do and you remember how badly this team got beaten by Buffalo the next game. I completely expect that to happen this week at the hands of the Jets.
I for one am happy that this is over, one way or the other, but we shouldn't be to quck to judge this trade. Let's wait to see what happens this season, in the playoffs and superbowl before we judge this. Or maybe we should wait even longer, until we see who the Pats select with the number one pick and how he performs over the first 3 or 4 years of his career. In the meantime say good bye, rich bitch.
Friday, September 01, 2006
Ever the Optomist
Since I will be unable to post next week, I'm doing two this week including looking into the crystal ball.....
Call me an optomist or call me a homer, I don't care. My prediction is that the Patriots will win the super bowl this year. What kind of fan would I be if I didn't truly believe the Pats will win it all? After my in-depth look at the schedules, it's safe to say that you don't even have to watch football this season - it's a foregone conclusion. (please note the sarcasm) So here goes:
IN THE AFC
The Pats Win the AFC East with a 13-3 record. One loss each to the Bengals and Dolphins for sure, and one loss to a team to be determined but not Denver or Indy.
Indy wins the AFC South with a 13-3 record. Because the Pats win the regular season meeting, the Pats will have home field for the playoffs.
Pitt wins the AFC North via tie-breaker with Cincy. Both finish with 11-5 records.
The meager AFC West is won handily by Denver at 12-4.
The wild card teams are the Bengals and Dolphins at 11-5.
Pats and Indy have a bye week for the first week in the playoffs.
Denver at home beats Miami
Bengals upset Pitt in Pitt
Pats home winners over Cincy
Denver wins at Indy, lack of a running game undoes Manning.
Pats get playoff revenge on Denver and win handily at home.
IN THE NFC
In the NFC East the Cowboys survive and win the division on tie breakers at 9-7.
In the NFC South Carolina edges out Atlanta for division with an 11-5 record.
The NFC North is a tie, with the Bears and Lions at 10-6, Bears get the division on coin toss.
Seattle once again easily wins the AFC West at 13-3.
Wildcards are Detriot and Atlanta.
Seattle and Carolina have first week playoff byes
Cowboys upset Bears in Chicago
Atlanta wins easily at Detroit
Seattle at home dismantles Atlanta
Cowboys' use Parcells magic and upset Carolina on the road.
Bledsoe to T.O. in the final seconds lifts the 'Boys over Seattle to win the NFC Title.
Thus begins the most over-hyped superbowl ever:
Pats v. 'Boys
Brady v. Bledsoe
Bill v. Bill
Harrison v. T.O. again
The Cowboys keep it interesting in the first half, but Super bowl MVP Laurence Maroney dominates the second half and the Pats win easily, 41-20.
Call me an optomist or call me a homer, I don't care. My prediction is that the Patriots will win the super bowl this year. What kind of fan would I be if I didn't truly believe the Pats will win it all? After my in-depth look at the schedules, it's safe to say that you don't even have to watch football this season - it's a foregone conclusion. (please note the sarcasm) So here goes:
IN THE AFC
The Pats Win the AFC East with a 13-3 record. One loss each to the Bengals and Dolphins for sure, and one loss to a team to be determined but not Denver or Indy.
Indy wins the AFC South with a 13-3 record. Because the Pats win the regular season meeting, the Pats will have home field for the playoffs.
Pitt wins the AFC North via tie-breaker with Cincy. Both finish with 11-5 records.
The meager AFC West is won handily by Denver at 12-4.
The wild card teams are the Bengals and Dolphins at 11-5.
Pats and Indy have a bye week for the first week in the playoffs.
Denver at home beats Miami
Bengals upset Pitt in Pitt
Pats home winners over Cincy
Denver wins at Indy, lack of a running game undoes Manning.
Pats get playoff revenge on Denver and win handily at home.
IN THE NFC
In the NFC East the Cowboys survive and win the division on tie breakers at 9-7.
In the NFC South Carolina edges out Atlanta for division with an 11-5 record.
The NFC North is a tie, with the Bears and Lions at 10-6, Bears get the division on coin toss.
Seattle once again easily wins the AFC West at 13-3.
Wildcards are Detriot and Atlanta.
Seattle and Carolina have first week playoff byes
Cowboys upset Bears in Chicago
Atlanta wins easily at Detroit
Seattle at home dismantles Atlanta
Cowboys' use Parcells magic and upset Carolina on the road.
Bledsoe to T.O. in the final seconds lifts the 'Boys over Seattle to win the NFC Title.
Thus begins the most over-hyped superbowl ever:
Pats v. 'Boys
Brady v. Bledsoe
Bill v. Bill
Harrison v. T.O. again
The Cowboys keep it interesting in the first half, but Super bowl MVP Laurence Maroney dominates the second half and the Pats win easily, 41-20.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Need for Speed
The season is fast approaching Pats fans and we still have no answer at wide receiver. There has been much debate in the media in the past week or so over whether or not the Pats can win without a true #1 receiver. Those that went to school for communications and never played in the NFL seem to think the Pats can't win. Those that have played in the NFL (DeOssie is leading the cause) seem to think the Pats can win the superbowl without a legit #1 guy. I don't necessarily know that they need Deion Branch or any #1 receiver per se, but they do need speed on the outside.
The Pats receiving corps as currently constituted does not pose a threat to defenses. Opposing D Coordinators will single cover Brown, Caldwell and or Chidress with corners. Then they can double team Watson with a LB underneath and a Safety over the top. That leaves a lot of dump passes to the RB's. That also means that opposing defenses will also be able to play 8 or 9 men in the box, taking away the running game that we've all been so high on this pre-season. That is where the speed comes in.
The Pats need AT LEAST the threat of the long passing game: deep outs, go patterns, deep slants that split the safeties, etc. Wide receivers with the ability to do that open up the running game and the middle for the Ben Watsons of the world. Brown can't do it anymore, Caldwell hasn't shown he ability to do it and neither has Childress. Oh, and don't forget the Pats have converted 7th round pick and former safety Willie Andrews to WR, not much chance that he'll get behind defenses either.
So where does the speed threat come from? I'm pretty sure they're not going to 'give in' to the ludicrous demands of Branch (I've seen reports that the Pats offered as much as 4yrs, over 6.15 million per with 12 million garuanteed). Hopefuly though, he'll come to his senses when he gets no other offers, fires his agent and get back with the team with a reasonable contract. I could go on and on about how insane he is for not taking the Pats offer, but this is not about my opinion of NFL contracts - maybe some other time. Word is that Chad Jackson will finally start practicing in preparation for week one, but that doesn't mean he'll start or even play. Jackson would provide the long threat and teams will have to account for him on every play, he's that physically gifted. It is disheartening to see someone like Donte Stallworth traded for nearly nothing. The Pats probably could have gotten him for Monte Beisel and a 4th round pick. Stallworth had better numbers than Branch last season, is younger, bigger and just as quick. I am still standing by my theory that David Patten will be cut by the Skins and will return to the Pats, not that I think he's the answer, but he's probably just as good or better than Caldwell.
Best case scenario, Branch reports and Jackson finally practices, the Pats have 2 speedy deep threats and an unstoppable offense. Worst case, they grind it out with neither of them and try to find someone off the scrap heap. I believe the team with SPEED (Jackson or Branch) wins 13 or 14 games and a team without can win 11 or 12 games. The difference being home field advantage throughout the playoffs or having to go on the road to get to the superbowl. How did that work out for them last year?
The Pats receiving corps as currently constituted does not pose a threat to defenses. Opposing D Coordinators will single cover Brown, Caldwell and or Chidress with corners. Then they can double team Watson with a LB underneath and a Safety over the top. That leaves a lot of dump passes to the RB's. That also means that opposing defenses will also be able to play 8 or 9 men in the box, taking away the running game that we've all been so high on this pre-season. That is where the speed comes in.
The Pats need AT LEAST the threat of the long passing game: deep outs, go patterns, deep slants that split the safeties, etc. Wide receivers with the ability to do that open up the running game and the middle for the Ben Watsons of the world. Brown can't do it anymore, Caldwell hasn't shown he ability to do it and neither has Childress. Oh, and don't forget the Pats have converted 7th round pick and former safety Willie Andrews to WR, not much chance that he'll get behind defenses either.
So where does the speed threat come from? I'm pretty sure they're not going to 'give in' to the ludicrous demands of Branch (I've seen reports that the Pats offered as much as 4yrs, over 6.15 million per with 12 million garuanteed). Hopefuly though, he'll come to his senses when he gets no other offers, fires his agent and get back with the team with a reasonable contract. I could go on and on about how insane he is for not taking the Pats offer, but this is not about my opinion of NFL contracts - maybe some other time. Word is that Chad Jackson will finally start practicing in preparation for week one, but that doesn't mean he'll start or even play. Jackson would provide the long threat and teams will have to account for him on every play, he's that physically gifted. It is disheartening to see someone like Donte Stallworth traded for nearly nothing. The Pats probably could have gotten him for Monte Beisel and a 4th round pick. Stallworth had better numbers than Branch last season, is younger, bigger and just as quick. I am still standing by my theory that David Patten will be cut by the Skins and will return to the Pats, not that I think he's the answer, but he's probably just as good or better than Caldwell.
Best case scenario, Branch reports and Jackson finally practices, the Pats have 2 speedy deep threats and an unstoppable offense. Worst case, they grind it out with neither of them and try to find someone off the scrap heap. I believe the team with SPEED (Jackson or Branch) wins 13 or 14 games and a team without can win 11 or 12 games. The difference being home field advantage throughout the playoffs or having to go on the road to get to the superbowl. How did that work out for them last year?
Friday, August 25, 2006
San Diego on my Mind
Sorry for the delay, I know I said this would get posted on Wednesdays, however I was in San Diego for a seminar. What a great tie-in for this weeks topic, Junior Seau.
I believe that it is easy to UNDER estimate the value of his signing. Most of us will agree, Pats fans or not, that Seau's best days are behind him and that we shouldn't be looking for him to come in here and be a Pro-Bowler again. That being said, if he can just do an admirable job until Bruschi can come back the Pats will be in good shape. From then on he can play situationally, in the vicinity of 20-30 snaps and be effective in the middle next to Bruschi. Pundits will argue that this signing is much like last years signing of Chad Brown but I disagree. Chad Brown was a rush specialist his whole career who was thrust into the run stuffing Middle LB spot. Seau has played every LB position and has experience under a similar 3-4 system under Nick Saban. Back to where I began, Seau won't be a pro-bowler, but his value will be greater off the field and that's where the under estimation comes in.
This is a guy who is hungry for his first Super Bowl Ring. No one in that locker room is going to bring as much energy and determination to this team with that specific purpose. I believe he will not be afraid to speak up to guys who are not doing the right things. He will be an inspirational leader not only in his words and actions, but also in a "win one for the gipper" kind of way. Remember Ray Bourque going to the Avs for his Stanley Cup? How about when Rodney Harrison signed and they won the super bowl for Rodney and the following year when it was win one for Corey Dillon.
If Seau's game is only average but he brings these intangibles to the locker room, he will be worth every penny that he gets and the underestimated San Diegan will have his Super Bowl ring.
Tell your friends you read it here!
I believe that it is easy to UNDER estimate the value of his signing. Most of us will agree, Pats fans or not, that Seau's best days are behind him and that we shouldn't be looking for him to come in here and be a Pro-Bowler again. That being said, if he can just do an admirable job until Bruschi can come back the Pats will be in good shape. From then on he can play situationally, in the vicinity of 20-30 snaps and be effective in the middle next to Bruschi. Pundits will argue that this signing is much like last years signing of Chad Brown but I disagree. Chad Brown was a rush specialist his whole career who was thrust into the run stuffing Middle LB spot. Seau has played every LB position and has experience under a similar 3-4 system under Nick Saban. Back to where I began, Seau won't be a pro-bowler, but his value will be greater off the field and that's where the under estimation comes in.
This is a guy who is hungry for his first Super Bowl Ring. No one in that locker room is going to bring as much energy and determination to this team with that specific purpose. I believe he will not be afraid to speak up to guys who are not doing the right things. He will be an inspirational leader not only in his words and actions, but also in a "win one for the gipper" kind of way. Remember Ray Bourque going to the Avs for his Stanley Cup? How about when Rodney Harrison signed and they won the super bowl for Rodney and the following year when it was win one for Corey Dillon.
If Seau's game is only average but he brings these intangibles to the locker room, he will be worth every penny that he gets and the underestimated San Diegan will have his Super Bowl ring.
Tell your friends you read it here!
Friday, August 18, 2006
THE CHANGE
As you may have noticed, it's been a LONG time since I've been able to BLOG. Unfortunately, I have to put my time and energy elsewhere these days. So this BLOG will change from "Paraphrased New England Patriots news and opinions all in one place for those who just don't have the time to find it all themselves", to a weekly column revolving around everything Patriots. Watch for the "column" to appear on Wednesdays around lunch time. For those of you looking for Pats news here, I would gladly refer you to Mike Reis' Blog at Boston.com.
Thanks for continuing to read, I hope to spark some discussions and create some different thoughts on the Pats.
Thanks for continuing to read, I hope to spark some discussions and create some different thoughts on the Pats.
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Issues to Resolve in Training Camp
Way too much has been made of the Branch holdout. Everything has been written about it, and nothing is getting done. The fact is, unless he wants to skip the entire season or be handed a franchise tag at the end of season, Deion Branch will be on the field for the first game of the season. From here on out, I'll be Belichickian and just say that I'm here to Blog about the players that are in camp.
*Tedy Bruschi has injured his wrist and will be re-evaluated after a week in a cast.
On with the issues.....
Assuming that employee #83 will be on the field, who will emerge as the #2 wide receiver? Early indications are that it will be Reche Caldwell. He is head and shoulders above the other receiver in practice, but that is not saying much. Other than Troy Brown there are no WR's in camp with any real NFL experience. While Caldwell has looked fantastic, he does come with a significant injury history. I don't feel that Brown is a legit #2 guy at this stage in his career, but he was always better as the 'slot' (#3) receiver anyway. It's hard to imagine that they haven't brought in more (any) veterans for camp, but I'd be surprised if they didn't sign 1 or 2 vets by the end of preseason. Ricky Proehl anyone? And I still believe old friend David Patten will be cut by the skins and join the Pats once again.
Is Beisel the answer as the 'will' MLB next to Bruschi? He'd better be or you may be looking at a starting lineup that includes Bruschi and Larry Izzo or Don Davis - yikes! Beisel has put on a few pounds in the off-season and in a good way. All indications are that he's 'doing better' than he was last training camp. Rod Gardner hasn't looked bad when he's been in, but other than that, there have been no reports about the younger MLB's doing anything at all in camp.
Who needs Ty Law when you've got Eugene Wilson? Seriously, Wilson has been starting at corner with the first team in almost every practice. Wilson and Hobbs at Corner and Artrell Hawkins and either Sanders or Tebucky or Scott at the other safety. Evidently the Pats liked what they saw in Hawkins ability as a Safety last year to make this transition with Wilson. Don't forget, sooner or later you'll be adding Harrison to the mix.
Who takes over for Vinatieri? Neither kicker has done a lot to hurt their cause. Gramatica has been Automatica and Gostkowski has been very consistent as well. The difference being that Gramatica kicks lower and not as far while Gostkowski kicks high and long. The pre-season games will be interesting just to see these two kick.
Lastly, I'd like to address an issue that hasn't yet surfaced as an issue as far as I know. Tom Brady. Yes I know, he's Mr. Everybodysallamericangoodboy, but do you think the Pats might be asking a little too much of him this year? I'm just throwing this out there because it's something I've been wondering about for a few weeks. What are they asking of Mr Perfect (I mean that in a good way)? 1) go to the line of scrimmage with 4-5 plays, read the D and call the appropriate play. 2) Run the offense perhaps without Branch, and when he returns no real #2 reciever. 3) Throw predominantly to the TE's even though that's never been the focus of the Offense. 4) Drive down the field for a game winning TD instead of FG because we're not sure the rookie will make a 40 yarder to win it. 5) Sit in the meetings and be the co-offensive coordinator (unofficially of course). 6) We have NO depth at LB or DB so you might have to go out and win games 50-49 if we get one or two "Rodney Harrison" type injuries. (see Tedy Bruschi's wrist) Did I miss anything? Oh Yeah, smile and be happy - you are the team's unquestioned leader and the face of the franchise and don't forget that the fans expect another superbowl victory this year.
OK, if anyone can do it, it might be Brady but don't be too harsh on him if he waivers a little.
Another post shortly on my visit to camp!
*Tedy Bruschi has injured his wrist and will be re-evaluated after a week in a cast.
On with the issues.....
Assuming that employee #83 will be on the field, who will emerge as the #2 wide receiver? Early indications are that it will be Reche Caldwell. He is head and shoulders above the other receiver in practice, but that is not saying much. Other than Troy Brown there are no WR's in camp with any real NFL experience. While Caldwell has looked fantastic, he does come with a significant injury history. I don't feel that Brown is a legit #2 guy at this stage in his career, but he was always better as the 'slot' (#3) receiver anyway. It's hard to imagine that they haven't brought in more (any) veterans for camp, but I'd be surprised if they didn't sign 1 or 2 vets by the end of preseason. Ricky Proehl anyone? And I still believe old friend David Patten will be cut by the skins and join the Pats once again.
Is Beisel the answer as the 'will' MLB next to Bruschi? He'd better be or you may be looking at a starting lineup that includes Bruschi and Larry Izzo or Don Davis - yikes! Beisel has put on a few pounds in the off-season and in a good way. All indications are that he's 'doing better' than he was last training camp. Rod Gardner hasn't looked bad when he's been in, but other than that, there have been no reports about the younger MLB's doing anything at all in camp.
Who needs Ty Law when you've got Eugene Wilson? Seriously, Wilson has been starting at corner with the first team in almost every practice. Wilson and Hobbs at Corner and Artrell Hawkins and either Sanders or Tebucky or Scott at the other safety. Evidently the Pats liked what they saw in Hawkins ability as a Safety last year to make this transition with Wilson. Don't forget, sooner or later you'll be adding Harrison to the mix.
Who takes over for Vinatieri? Neither kicker has done a lot to hurt their cause. Gramatica has been Automatica and Gostkowski has been very consistent as well. The difference being that Gramatica kicks lower and not as far while Gostkowski kicks high and long. The pre-season games will be interesting just to see these two kick.
Lastly, I'd like to address an issue that hasn't yet surfaced as an issue as far as I know. Tom Brady. Yes I know, he's Mr. Everybodysallamericangoodboy, but do you think the Pats might be asking a little too much of him this year? I'm just throwing this out there because it's something I've been wondering about for a few weeks. What are they asking of Mr Perfect (I mean that in a good way)? 1) go to the line of scrimmage with 4-5 plays, read the D and call the appropriate play. 2) Run the offense perhaps without Branch, and when he returns no real #2 reciever. 3) Throw predominantly to the TE's even though that's never been the focus of the Offense. 4) Drive down the field for a game winning TD instead of FG because we're not sure the rookie will make a 40 yarder to win it. 5) Sit in the meetings and be the co-offensive coordinator (unofficially of course). 6) We have NO depth at LB or DB so you might have to go out and win games 50-49 if we get one or two "Rodney Harrison" type injuries. (see Tedy Bruschi's wrist) Did I miss anything? Oh Yeah, smile and be happy - you are the team's unquestioned leader and the face of the franchise and don't forget that the fans expect another superbowl victory this year.
OK, if anyone can do it, it might be Brady but don't be too harsh on him if he waivers a little.
Another post shortly on my visit to camp!
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Jones-ing
We have reached the NFL's annual 4 week hibernation period where nothing happens. Everyone is on vacation, getting in the final rest before the dawn of the 06-07 season. I'll try not to put you into hibernation too.
The Pats have signed their 7th round pick, CB Willie Andrews. Who? Supposedly the kid set records at Baylor for kick returns and punt returns, so maybe he'll have an impact this season. We all know that the Pats are in dire need of a return game, especially those of you that read this blog faithfully last season. Yawn.
I feel compelled to respond on behalf of fellow Pats fans to the NFL 'experts' that have picked the Miami Dolphins as their pre-season favorites to win the AFC East. The fins have become the fashonable pick and I cannot understand why. How did Daunte Culpepper go from 6TD and 12 INT's and tearing 3 ligaments in his knee to the savior at QB for Miami? Thomas and Taylor are another year older and slower. Can you name one starting defensive back in the Miami secondary? Has Ronnie Brown ever had to carry the load for a full season? (not even in college).
So I say SORRY 'experts' you are wrong. The Fins are only good for a MAXIMUM of 10 wins and that won't even be close to a Patriots team with an easy schedule and a MINIMUM of 12 wins.
Ty Law. Don't hold your breath. The Pats are 15 million under the cap. 5 mill to sign the rooks, 4 mill to sign Branch, 1 mill for midseason acquisition. That leaves 5 mill for Ty Law and unless no none in the league has 5.1 million for him he won't be here.
Why haven't the Pats cut fat load Johnathan Sullivan for his arrest? Could it mean that Belichick is actually considering a switch back to the 4-3 D that I've been screaming for for 2 years now? Unless a major roster addition is made, Monty Beisel is starting next to Brushi in the middle. Yikes!
That's all I've got, unless the Pats draft someone in the supplemental entry draft tomorrow.
MAN AM I JONES-ING FOR FOOTBALL!!!!
Tell your friends you heard it here!
The Pats have signed their 7th round pick, CB Willie Andrews. Who? Supposedly the kid set records at Baylor for kick returns and punt returns, so maybe he'll have an impact this season. We all know that the Pats are in dire need of a return game, especially those of you that read this blog faithfully last season. Yawn.
I feel compelled to respond on behalf of fellow Pats fans to the NFL 'experts' that have picked the Miami Dolphins as their pre-season favorites to win the AFC East. The fins have become the fashonable pick and I cannot understand why. How did Daunte Culpepper go from 6TD and 12 INT's and tearing 3 ligaments in his knee to the savior at QB for Miami? Thomas and Taylor are another year older and slower. Can you name one starting defensive back in the Miami secondary? Has Ronnie Brown ever had to carry the load for a full season? (not even in college).
So I say SORRY 'experts' you are wrong. The Fins are only good for a MAXIMUM of 10 wins and that won't even be close to a Patriots team with an easy schedule and a MINIMUM of 12 wins.
Ty Law. Don't hold your breath. The Pats are 15 million under the cap. 5 mill to sign the rooks, 4 mill to sign Branch, 1 mill for midseason acquisition. That leaves 5 mill for Ty Law and unless no none in the league has 5.1 million for him he won't be here.
Why haven't the Pats cut fat load Johnathan Sullivan for his arrest? Could it mean that Belichick is actually considering a switch back to the 4-3 D that I've been screaming for for 2 years now? Unless a major roster addition is made, Monty Beisel is starting next to Brushi in the middle. Yikes!
That's all I've got, unless the Pats draft someone in the supplemental entry draft tomorrow.
MAN AM I JONES-ING FOR FOOTBALL!!!!
Tell your friends you heard it here!
Friday, June 16, 2006
Mini Camp
There were quite a few happenings at this weeks minicamp, but before I delve into that I'd like to cover a topic I missed on my last post. The trade of Bethel Johnson for Johnathatn Sullivan. Once again, the Pats have made a brilliant move. By all indications, Johnson probably would have been cut this year anyway. In return for nothing then, they got former #6 overall pick Sullivan who played at Georgia and was a teammate of Seymours. While all he's done is EAT since he was drafted (he hasn't produced much at all on the field and has no work ethic) he has the size and ability to be very good in the Pats' system. In this week's minicamp Sullivan actually showed pretty good effort and the team was able to put together D-line with FOUR first round picks. (Seymour #6pick Sullivan #6 pick Warren #13pick Wilfork #21pick) I'm not saying that Sullivan is the next coming of Seymour, but the trend in the NFL is to play a nickel package (4 Dline, 2 LB and 5 DB's) and putting those four on the line is formiddable. Not to mention the likes of Jarvis Green and Marquise Hill. Even if Sullivan can just be a back up to Wilfork, enabling Wilfork to get off the field for 12 or 15 plays, he will be worth it because Wilfork will be that much more effective.
On to the minicamp and the events that occurred:
-As predicted by ALL, Branch was an "unexcused absence".
-Brady was the unquestioned leader on the field, demanding 100% from everyone at all times.
-Ellis Hobbs started taking on some leadership in the secondary which lacked Harrison AND Wilson. At one point Hobbs told veteran Eric Warfield to, "make the @#$%ing play or get the #&%@ off my field" Good for him.
-Gostkowski demonstrated a powerful and accurate leg. His biggest play was when Belichick lined him up for a 40 yarder and told the whole team practice is over if the kid makes the kick. He did and the team went nuts.
-Corey Dillon has actually taken Maroney under his wing and shoewn him the ropes. While he's not ready to acceed the position to Maroney, it is a good sign that he's got the right attitude - so far.
-The 'star' of minicamp was Ben Watson. Evidently he's going to get a lot of catches this season, as he was te primary receiver on many offensive plays. He lined up at TE, WR and H Back, ran great routes and dropped NONE.
-Not much was said about 2nd rounder Chad Jackson, but there was a quiet excitement in the way he was spoken about. He's like a BIG Deion Branch as far as cuts and hands, AND he is faster down the field than Branch. I'm trying not to get too carried away about him.
-When you see Reche Caldwell, you're going to think he's David Givens. Same size, build, NUMBER, and skin tone. Let's hope he produces like Givens.
Hope I didn't miss anything....
Next on the Pats' list should be adding some veteran depth, hopefully in the form of Ty Law and another Linebacker.
On a side note, my 'friend' of a friend on the inside has revealed to me that Belichick and Pioli are more excited about this year's draft class than any of the previous 6 they've had together. Watch the rookies!!!
On to the minicamp and the events that occurred:
-As predicted by ALL, Branch was an "unexcused absence".
-Brady was the unquestioned leader on the field, demanding 100% from everyone at all times.
-Ellis Hobbs started taking on some leadership in the secondary which lacked Harrison AND Wilson. At one point Hobbs told veteran Eric Warfield to, "make the @#$%ing play or get the #&%@ off my field" Good for him.
-Gostkowski demonstrated a powerful and accurate leg. His biggest play was when Belichick lined him up for a 40 yarder and told the whole team practice is over if the kid makes the kick. He did and the team went nuts.
-Corey Dillon has actually taken Maroney under his wing and shoewn him the ropes. While he's not ready to acceed the position to Maroney, it is a good sign that he's got the right attitude - so far.
-The 'star' of minicamp was Ben Watson. Evidently he's going to get a lot of catches this season, as he was te primary receiver on many offensive plays. He lined up at TE, WR and H Back, ran great routes and dropped NONE.
-Not much was said about 2nd rounder Chad Jackson, but there was a quiet excitement in the way he was spoken about. He's like a BIG Deion Branch as far as cuts and hands, AND he is faster down the field than Branch. I'm trying not to get too carried away about him.
-When you see Reche Caldwell, you're going to think he's David Givens. Same size, build, NUMBER, and skin tone. Let's hope he produces like Givens.
Hope I didn't miss anything....
Next on the Pats' list should be adding some veteran depth, hopefully in the form of Ty Law and another Linebacker.
On a side note, my 'friend' of a friend on the inside has revealed to me that Belichick and Pioli are more excited about this year's draft class than any of the previous 6 they've had together. Watch the rookies!!!
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Passing Fancy
The Patriots are having there annual, non-mandatory passing camp this week leading up to this weekends' mandatory training camp. Although the passing camp is strictly voluntary, just about every Pat is there with one notable excepion - Deion Branch. Should I call him Seymour Jr? Branch, who as far as I know willingly signed his rookie contract without a gun to his head, is unhappy with his contract - ala Seymour last season. Boo Hoo. In the meantime, Brady gets to throw more balls to newcomers Jackson and Caldwell. The rumors are starting that Branch is prepared to skip the madatory camp this weekend as well, hoping that it will motivate the Pats to do a new contract before this season. Good luck with that one.
Speaking of rumors, Ty Law supposedly has narrowed his search to the Pats or Cardinals. As I've stated before, he's nuts not to sign with the Pats even if it's a one year deal. Another rumor connected with the Pats that might effect Branch is that old friend David Patten is going to be cut by Washington because of his high price and average performance. If Branch wants to sit out, the return of Patten could help to soften the blow, but I am by no means implying that Patten is as good as Branch.
Tom Brady played in a foursome with George Bush the Senior and Bill Clinton - not sure who the fourth was, but I would have been willing to spend my life savings to have been that guy. If any of you doubted my premise a year ago that Brady has political aspirations, there's some hard evidence for you. I just hope he stays in MA to be OUR Senator rather than CA's.
As for this week's passing camp, I'm not sure that the media - or anyone has had any access to it. I've been searching high and low for something, anything on how the new guys are doing. Hopefully we'll hear more on this weekend's camp.
Pass it on....tell your friends you heard it here!
Speaking of rumors, Ty Law supposedly has narrowed his search to the Pats or Cardinals. As I've stated before, he's nuts not to sign with the Pats even if it's a one year deal. Another rumor connected with the Pats that might effect Branch is that old friend David Patten is going to be cut by Washington because of his high price and average performance. If Branch wants to sit out, the return of Patten could help to soften the blow, but I am by no means implying that Patten is as good as Branch.
Tom Brady played in a foursome with George Bush the Senior and Bill Clinton - not sure who the fourth was, but I would have been willing to spend my life savings to have been that guy. If any of you doubted my premise a year ago that Brady has political aspirations, there's some hard evidence for you. I just hope he stays in MA to be OUR Senator rather than CA's.
As for this week's passing camp, I'm not sure that the media - or anyone has had any access to it. I've been searching high and low for something, anything on how the new guys are doing. Hopefully we'll hear more on this weekend's camp.
Pass it on....tell your friends you heard it here!
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Thanks for the Support....
This blog has been 'picked up' by Fox Sports, Scouts Inc and MSN to be on their Patriots Insider website. I don't think it will effect you, except that (hopefully) there will be more comments on my posts. There also may be a small change in the format, but I'm still working on that. Thanks for reading, I'll continue to give you all of got!
Sunday, May 14, 2006
On Rookie Camp and Maroney...
Saturday observations from Mike Reiss of the Globe:
* Receiver Chad Jackson made a positive first impression, catching everything thrown his way and making a few difficult grabs on high-thrown balls and one over the middle. Forced to pick one player who stood out from this practice, the answer would be Jackson.
* Players wore shorts, jerseys (no pads) and helmets for the indoor practice.
* There was a lot of work on pass-catching and running back Laurence Maroney and tight end David Thomas were consistent in hauling in throws from Corey Bramlet (the only QB in camp). Thomas made one very nice grab on a long crossing route, and Maroney outran outside linebacker Jeremy Mincey to snare a long touchdown toss.
* Tight end Garrett Mills wasn’t as consistent, with a few tough passes bouncing off his hands.
* Kicker Steve Gostkowski showed solid leg strength while booting kickoffs. He consistently was kicking the ball from one end zone to the other end zone in the 80-yard practice bubble.
* It was difficult to gauge the speed of all the players, but Maroney, Jackson and Thomas all gained separation when needed, and looked the part. Maroney looks fast.
AND Reiss' Sunday observations:
* Head coach Bill Belichick spent some early time with the outside linebackers -- Jeremy Mincey and Pierre Woods -- giving them one-on-one instruction as the team was broken into drills specific by position.
* Players wore shorts, jerseys and helmets (no pads).
* With heavy rains in the area, the workout was held inside at the Dana Farber Fieldhouse.
* Laurence Maroney, Chad Jackson and David Thomas, the team’s top three draft picks, continue to snare most every catchable ball thrown their way. Jackson, specifically, seems to catch balls away from his body with fine form.
* Defensive back Vernell Brown (free agent) intercepted a pass thrown late and behind Chad Jackson in passing drills. Cornerback Willie Andrews (7th round) had a nice pass breakup on Jackson along the sideline, closing fast as the ball was thrown a bit late.
* Tight ends David Thomas and Garrett Mills worked on long snapping in a punt drill. Thomas seemed a bit more polished with the skill. Mills had a nice catch across the middle in passing drills later in the practice, as the ball arrived as he cut.
* Dan Stevenson, the sixth-round pick who primarily played right guard at Notre Dame, got some work in at center.
* Corey Bramlet remains the lone quarterback in camp.
* Rookie free agent receiver Matt Shelton had a few drops in positional work. Fellow rookie free agent Erik Davis had one drop, but also made some nice catches.
The Felger article is the one that excites me the most:
http://patriots.bostonherald.com/patriots/view.bg?articleid=139214
And lastly, Laurence Maroney who is wearing #39. I was told to check him out on a website called youtube, some guy put together a Maroney video.
Watch it. If you can't spend the entire 4 minutes, make sure you at least fast forward to 1:25 and watch that play but most iportantly, watch the play at 2:20. Speed, Vision, WOW!!! (The guy that put it together set it to some movie music, and it gives you goose bumps when you watch the 2:20 highlite because the music all kicks in - nice!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OwBbBY0tf6E&search=new%20england%20patriots
Tell your friends you heard it here!
* Receiver Chad Jackson made a positive first impression, catching everything thrown his way and making a few difficult grabs on high-thrown balls and one over the middle. Forced to pick one player who stood out from this practice, the answer would be Jackson.
* Players wore shorts, jerseys (no pads) and helmets for the indoor practice.
* There was a lot of work on pass-catching and running back Laurence Maroney and tight end David Thomas were consistent in hauling in throws from Corey Bramlet (the only QB in camp). Thomas made one very nice grab on a long crossing route, and Maroney outran outside linebacker Jeremy Mincey to snare a long touchdown toss.
* Tight end Garrett Mills wasn’t as consistent, with a few tough passes bouncing off his hands.
* Kicker Steve Gostkowski showed solid leg strength while booting kickoffs. He consistently was kicking the ball from one end zone to the other end zone in the 80-yard practice bubble.
* It was difficult to gauge the speed of all the players, but Maroney, Jackson and Thomas all gained separation when needed, and looked the part. Maroney looks fast.
AND Reiss' Sunday observations:
* Head coach Bill Belichick spent some early time with the outside linebackers -- Jeremy Mincey and Pierre Woods -- giving them one-on-one instruction as the team was broken into drills specific by position.
* Players wore shorts, jerseys and helmets (no pads).
* With heavy rains in the area, the workout was held inside at the Dana Farber Fieldhouse.
* Laurence Maroney, Chad Jackson and David Thomas, the team’s top three draft picks, continue to snare most every catchable ball thrown their way. Jackson, specifically, seems to catch balls away from his body with fine form.
* Defensive back Vernell Brown (free agent) intercepted a pass thrown late and behind Chad Jackson in passing drills. Cornerback Willie Andrews (7th round) had a nice pass breakup on Jackson along the sideline, closing fast as the ball was thrown a bit late.
* Tight ends David Thomas and Garrett Mills worked on long snapping in a punt drill. Thomas seemed a bit more polished with the skill. Mills had a nice catch across the middle in passing drills later in the practice, as the ball arrived as he cut.
* Dan Stevenson, the sixth-round pick who primarily played right guard at Notre Dame, got some work in at center.
* Corey Bramlet remains the lone quarterback in camp.
* Rookie free agent receiver Matt Shelton had a few drops in positional work. Fellow rookie free agent Erik Davis had one drop, but also made some nice catches.
The Felger article is the one that excites me the most:
http://patriots.bostonherald.com/patriots/view.bg?articleid=139214
And lastly, Laurence Maroney who is wearing #39. I was told to check him out on a website called youtube, some guy put together a Maroney video.
Watch it. If you can't spend the entire 4 minutes, make sure you at least fast forward to 1:25 and watch that play but most iportantly, watch the play at 2:20. Speed, Vision, WOW!!! (The guy that put it together set it to some movie music, and it gives you goose bumps when you watch the 2:20 highlite because the music all kicks in - nice!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OwBbBY0tf6E&search=new%20england%20patriots
Tell your friends you heard it here!
2006 Draft - Day Two (finally)
As you know, I try to do my best not to let my emotions get the best of me and when I write this blog, I try to be as objective as possible. However, the more I read about the players the Pats have collected from this years' draft, I can't help but get excited about them.
Round 4 Garrett Mills, TE from Tulsa
Why in the world would the Pats take yet another TE after selecting a TE in round 3 when they really don't need a TE? Here's all you need to know to understand why: http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/sportsNews/view.bg?articleid=129061
Round 4 Stephen Gostkowski K, Memphis
The numbers on Gostkowski are impressive. 22-25 field goals including all 10 attempted from over 40 yds. 35 for 35 on extra points in his career and his kickoffs consistantly go for touchbacks. Reading about him kicking this weekend at Pats Rookie Camp, he is still consistantly kicking for touchbacks, and on a number of occassions his kickoffs are bouncing off the ceiling of the indoor practice facility. The only question will be how he does under pressure.
Round 5 Ryan O'Callaghan T, California
A beast of a man at 6'7 344, he slipped this far due to injury concerns. He might turn out to be the next Patriots 5th round steal at O-Line (Dan Koppen). Here's what you need to know: Career Notes: Started 35 games...Despite four surgical procedures on his shoulders, two concussions and two hand fractures, Ryan has missed only one game due to injuries during his career.
Round 6 Jeremy Mincey DE, Florida
The Florida connection with Urban Meyer continues with Mincey, who projects to an outside line backer in the Patriots' scheme. 2005 SEASON: All-Southeastern Conference second-team choice by the league's coaches and Associated Press...Served as team captain and was a member of the Florida Leadership Committee in 2005...Started all year at weak-side defensive end...Ranked fourth on the team with 62 tackles.
Round 6 Dan Stevenson G, Notre Dame
Charlie Weis calls this guy the next Joe Andruzzi. That's not a bad thing to say about a 6th round pick.
Round 6 LeKevin Smith NT, Nebraska
If you run into him, don't call him LeKevin, it's La-Kee-vin. Maybe Mr Smith would be more appropriate. CAREER NOTES: Recorded 36 tackles behind the line of scrimmage, the seventh-best career total in school history. Selected all Big 12 Academic Honor roll.
Round 7 Willie Andrews S, Baylor
Was a kick/punt returner in college. Has an outside shot to make the team, and only if he produces big time in the kicking game.
The scoop on the 15 undrafted rookies that are in camp this weekend:
- Corey Mays, a 6-foot-1, 234-pound linebacker, and Matt Shelton, a 6-foot, 172-pound wide receiver - played under former Patriots offensive coordinator Charlie Weiss at Notre Dame.
Also signed were:
Remi Ayodele, 6-2, 300-pound nose tackle, Oklahoma;
Brian Barthelmes, 6-6, 288-pound center, Virginia;
Corey Bramlet, 6-4, 219-pound quarterback, Wyoming;
Vernell Brown, 5-8, 165-pound cornerback, Florida;
Erik Davis, 6-2, 192-pound wide receiver, Vanderbilt;
Kader Drame, 6-5, 290-pound defensive end, Syracuse;
Randy Hand, 6-6, 305-pound tackle, Florida;
Jarvia Herring, 5-11, 205-pound safety, Florida;
Keon Jackson, 5-11, 206-pound safety, Toledo;
Freddie Roach, 6-2, 248-pound linebacker, Alabama;
Sam Smith, 6-0, 200-pound safety, Delaware State;
Gemara Williams, 5-8, 180-pound cornerback, Buffalo;
Pierre Woods, 6-5, 249-pound linebacker, Michigan
I watch a LOT of Michigan games and I'm NOT excited abou Pierre Woods.
I DO like Freddie Roach a whole lot. He was extremely productive in college with one of the best Defenses in the country. Here's the article:
http://patriots.bostonherald.com/patriots/view.bg?articleid=139228
Round 4 Garrett Mills, TE from Tulsa
Why in the world would the Pats take yet another TE after selecting a TE in round 3 when they really don't need a TE? Here's all you need to know to understand why: http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/sportsNews/view.bg?articleid=129061
Round 4 Stephen Gostkowski K, Memphis
The numbers on Gostkowski are impressive. 22-25 field goals including all 10 attempted from over 40 yds. 35 for 35 on extra points in his career and his kickoffs consistantly go for touchbacks. Reading about him kicking this weekend at Pats Rookie Camp, he is still consistantly kicking for touchbacks, and on a number of occassions his kickoffs are bouncing off the ceiling of the indoor practice facility. The only question will be how he does under pressure.
Round 5 Ryan O'Callaghan T, California
A beast of a man at 6'7 344, he slipped this far due to injury concerns. He might turn out to be the next Patriots 5th round steal at O-Line (Dan Koppen). Here's what you need to know: Career Notes: Started 35 games...Despite four surgical procedures on his shoulders, two concussions and two hand fractures, Ryan has missed only one game due to injuries during his career.
Round 6 Jeremy Mincey DE, Florida
The Florida connection with Urban Meyer continues with Mincey, who projects to an outside line backer in the Patriots' scheme. 2005 SEASON: All-Southeastern Conference second-team choice by the league's coaches and Associated Press...Served as team captain and was a member of the Florida Leadership Committee in 2005...Started all year at weak-side defensive end...Ranked fourth on the team with 62 tackles.
Round 6 Dan Stevenson G, Notre Dame
Charlie Weis calls this guy the next Joe Andruzzi. That's not a bad thing to say about a 6th round pick.
Round 6 LeKevin Smith NT, Nebraska
If you run into him, don't call him LeKevin, it's La-Kee-vin. Maybe Mr Smith would be more appropriate. CAREER NOTES: Recorded 36 tackles behind the line of scrimmage, the seventh-best career total in school history. Selected all Big 12 Academic Honor roll.
Round 7 Willie Andrews S, Baylor
Was a kick/punt returner in college. Has an outside shot to make the team, and only if he produces big time in the kicking game.
The scoop on the 15 undrafted rookies that are in camp this weekend:
- Corey Mays, a 6-foot-1, 234-pound linebacker, and Matt Shelton, a 6-foot, 172-pound wide receiver - played under former Patriots offensive coordinator Charlie Weiss at Notre Dame.
Also signed were:
Remi Ayodele, 6-2, 300-pound nose tackle, Oklahoma;
Brian Barthelmes, 6-6, 288-pound center, Virginia;
Corey Bramlet, 6-4, 219-pound quarterback, Wyoming;
Vernell Brown, 5-8, 165-pound cornerback, Florida;
Erik Davis, 6-2, 192-pound wide receiver, Vanderbilt;
Kader Drame, 6-5, 290-pound defensive end, Syracuse;
Randy Hand, 6-6, 305-pound tackle, Florida;
Jarvia Herring, 5-11, 205-pound safety, Florida;
Keon Jackson, 5-11, 206-pound safety, Toledo;
Freddie Roach, 6-2, 248-pound linebacker, Alabama;
Sam Smith, 6-0, 200-pound safety, Delaware State;
Gemara Williams, 5-8, 180-pound cornerback, Buffalo;
Pierre Woods, 6-5, 249-pound linebacker, Michigan
I watch a LOT of Michigan games and I'm NOT excited abou Pierre Woods.
I DO like Freddie Roach a whole lot. He was extremely productive in college with one of the best Defenses in the country. Here's the article:
http://patriots.bostonherald.com/patriots/view.bg?articleid=139228
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Day 1 of the 2006 NFL Draft
What?
Wow!
Why?
That pretty much sums up the first round for me. If I had told you yesterday that the Pats were going to draft a RB, WR and TE in the first 3 rounds of the draft you'd have thought I was on drugs. Well, that's exactly what they did and I am SHOCKED. You'd have thought that the need for Linebackers and Cornerbacks would have some impact on how they drafted. Not Bill and Scott. Value, Value and more Value. Here are the picks:
Laurence Moroney (what?)
Running back from The Minnesota Golden Gofers.
600+ carries over 3 seasons, only 4 fumbles - no turnovers. Here's what you need to know: http://www.nfldraftcountdown.com/scoutingreports/rb/laurencemaroney.html
Chad Jackson (Wow!)
Wide Receiver from The Florida Gators
2005 stats: 88 catches 900 yds and 9TD's
HE RUNS A 4.32 40 yd DASH! (That's nearly olympic speed)
The low down: http://www.nfldraftcountdown.com/scoutingreports/wr/chadjackson.html
David Thomas (why?)
Thight End from The Texas Longnorns
No doubt this kid is a football player, 10 catches from Vince Young in the Rose Bowl victory, but why do the Pats need another TE? NFL Network explained that teams realize that Graham is the blocker and Watson is the reciever, so they rotate coverage to Watson. Thomas is yet another receiving threat that should leave Watson more open. Ummm, OK.
http://www.nfldraftcountdown.com/scoutingreports/te/davidthomas.html
More to come, for vidoe highlights visit:
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5470428
Wow!
Why?
That pretty much sums up the first round for me. If I had told you yesterday that the Pats were going to draft a RB, WR and TE in the first 3 rounds of the draft you'd have thought I was on drugs. Well, that's exactly what they did and I am SHOCKED. You'd have thought that the need for Linebackers and Cornerbacks would have some impact on how they drafted. Not Bill and Scott. Value, Value and more Value. Here are the picks:
Laurence Moroney (what?)
Running back from The Minnesota Golden Gofers.
600+ carries over 3 seasons, only 4 fumbles - no turnovers. Here's what you need to know: http://www.nfldraftcountdown.com/scoutingreports/rb/laurencemaroney.html
Chad Jackson (Wow!)
Wide Receiver from The Florida Gators
2005 stats: 88 catches 900 yds and 9TD's
HE RUNS A 4.32 40 yd DASH! (That's nearly olympic speed)
The low down: http://www.nfldraftcountdown.com/scoutingreports/wr/chadjackson.html
David Thomas (why?)
Thight End from The Texas Longnorns
No doubt this kid is a football player, 10 catches from Vince Young in the Rose Bowl victory, but why do the Pats need another TE? NFL Network explained that teams realize that Graham is the blocker and Watson is the reciever, so they rotate coverage to Watson. Thomas is yet another receiving threat that should leave Watson more open. Ummm, OK.
http://www.nfldraftcountdown.com/scoutingreports/te/davidthomas.html
More to come, for vidoe highlights visit:
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5470428
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Seymour, Four More
By now we've all heard that Seymour got a four year deal in the vicinity of $32 million dollars with as much as $20 million gauranteed. Yippee.
Seymour money will be around for a while and as far as I'm concerned he has a LOT to live up to over the next four years. I don't want to hear any more bitching and moaning about what he's making, no more holdouts, and no more knee "injuries" keeping him off the practice fields. He is and should now act like the unquestioned leader of the Defense, the counterpart to Tom Brady. Maybe he should start hanging out with Brady so he can learn some leadership. Willie Mac is gone and the throne is #93's for the taking. I don't think it's asking too much for him to start saying and doing the right things the way Brady does. Only it's sad that they had to give him a fortune to make him do it. I hope he's happy and I hope he lives up to the contract because I for one will not let him off the hook if he slacks off.
It's ironic, because if you asked most Pats fans a year ago who would be most likely to leave the Pats, Vinatieri, MacGinest or Seymour? The majority would have said Seymour. Funny how times change in the NFL.
Seymour money will be around for a while and as far as I'm concerned he has a LOT to live up to over the next four years. I don't want to hear any more bitching and moaning about what he's making, no more holdouts, and no more knee "injuries" keeping him off the practice fields. He is and should now act like the unquestioned leader of the Defense, the counterpart to Tom Brady. Maybe he should start hanging out with Brady so he can learn some leadership. Willie Mac is gone and the throne is #93's for the taking. I don't think it's asking too much for him to start saying and doing the right things the way Brady does. Only it's sad that they had to give him a fortune to make him do it. I hope he's happy and I hope he lives up to the contract because I for one will not let him off the hook if he slacks off.
It's ironic, because if you asked most Pats fans a year ago who would be most likely to leave the Pats, Vinatieri, MacGinest or Seymour? The majority would have said Seymour. Funny how times change in the NFL.
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