New England Patriots Discussion

[Jvig43]

Edelmen has been disappointing after having a good start last year.

[ElectricEye]

Edelmen has been disappointing after having a good start last year.

I have to agree in general. I expected him to at least be another option to keep defenses honest but he has not been there. Then again, no one has this year. We need a wide receiver and a defensive linemen then play the field for the best linebacker.

[Jvig43]

I have to agree in general. I expected him to at least be another option to keep defenses honest but he has not been there. Then again, no one has this year. We need a wide receiver and a defensive linemen then play the field for the best linebacker.

He played QB, we should have some trick plays where he throws it down field or something.

[ElectricEye]

He played QB, we should have some trick plays where he throws it down field or something.

We had the one earlier this year against the Jets(I think?) but he had a false start penalty. Assume we're stashing it for something.

[nepg]

Edelmen has been disappointing after having a good start last year.

They don't and can't use him enough to expect him to be able to be effective. He doesn't have a place on the offense when Welker's healthy.

[nepg]

At least Detroit has a short week, too... Just glad I have something to do on Thanksgiving, lol.

[Jvig43]

I know I gave out alot of rep today to you guys, but anyone who goes and neg reps Go Cowboys will get more rep from me later in the week. That kid is the single stupidest person I have ever had the pleasure of meeting, I dont even think hes trying to troll.

[ElectricEye]

He's basing that entire spiel on absolutely nothing.

[Jvig43]

Dude I havent been so irritated with such senseless rambling in a long time. The guy is a ******* Idiot and has no clue what hes talking about.

[ElectricEye]

Yes suuuuur. But the win is so god damned sweet right now, in spite of how it came. Don't let he and RealityCheck ruin your Pats boner.

[Jvig43]

True, I'm just posting funny images to everything he says now. Its less irritating and more hilarious now. But yeah, we needed this win Badly. Now we have to go and take care of the Lions.

[Nalej]

Some more good news... Raiders lost =)

[ElectricEye]

Some more good news... Raiders lost =)

But the Jets somehow won. But yeah, Raiders second half schedule is brutal. All those teams are in playoff races and have a ton to play for, with the exception of Miami.

[Jvig43]

I really just dont want to play the Ravens in the playoffs. Thats the one team I dont want to see. Hopefully they get beat out for a wild card spot.

[descendency]

I know I gave out alot of rep today to you guys, but anyone who goes and neg reps Go Cowboys will get more rep from me later in the week. That kid is the single stupidest person I have ever had the pleasure of meeting, I dont even think hes trying to troll.

Of course he's trolling. His team is eliminated. I'd be a troll if I had nothing to do the rest of the season while everyone else is enjoying their runs at the playoffs.

But my team is 8-2 and playing the Lions this upcoming week.

[ElectricEye]

God damn, can we just skip the rest of this week? It's not like I have anything to do until Thursday anyway.

Also, Kong Suh makes me **** my pants in terror. The interior is a horrible weak point of this line and he should exploit it painfully at least once.

[Jvig43]

I know this is way premature, but if we made it to the superbowl who would you guys want to play? I personally want a ******* rematch with the Giants.

[BradysKnee]

God damn, can we just skip the rest of this week? It's not like I have anything to do until Thursday anyway.

Also, Kong Suh makes me **** my pants in terror. The interior is a horrible weak point of this line and he should exploit it painfully at least once.

Suh is one mean SOB too. He should wreck some havoc.

[ElectricEye]

Best defensive tackle I've ever seen play in college and he might be the best in the NFL already.

[Jvig43]

Suh is a personal favorite of mine since watching him in the preseason into the regular season. Dude is a BEAST

[nepg]

So what are the odds of a Mankins-Suh frackus on Thursday?

[Jvig43]

Nice to see Merriweather getting a good pick today. I want to see that more often.

[ElectricEye]

So what are the odds of a Mankins-Suh frackus on Thursday?

Two of the meanest SOBS in the league. Should be interesting.

[Jvig43]

I'm just fully realizing we have like three days to prepare for this.

[descendency]

I'm just fully realizing we have like three days to prepare for this.

Fortunately, It's the Lions without Stafford. Unfortunately, we will probably beat their face in so badly, all we'll hear about is the Jets game in 2 weeks.

[proshoota25]

our draft picks are looking sexy right now

OAK's pick will be middle of the first im guessing 15-20

Hopefully the Patriots 1st pick will be #32

Looking like the Pats will have the 1st pick of the 2nd round, which means we control the draft board for 24 hours and will get a redic deal for the pick due to the new format

Viking's 3rd round pick looks to be pretty high as well

Things are looking good boys

[ElectricEye]

Yeah. Hopefully we can take an impact wide receiver with that pick because I'm pretty convinced that's the thing holding us back at this point after watching parts of the Colts game again. Need a guy who can create his own separation more than five yards past the LOS and not rely on Brady looking people off or finding a hole in the zone. We're in an interesting situation at that position because if we addresses it early and hit with that pick then we take a position that was a weakness and instantly turn it into a strength just because the guys we have become so much better as complimentary players instead of primary options.

[nepg]

Maybe an LT that isn't a turn-style would help.

[Nalej]

Maybe an LT that isn't a turn-style would help.

We have one already in Vollmer, we just need a replacement for him at RT once he takes Light's job.

[descendency]

We have one already in Vollmer, we just need a replacement for him at RT once he takes Light's job.

Yea, After watching the film on Vollmer and seeing his sacks given up, you realize that he's making mistakes and it's not a product of his talent or the superior-ness of the pass rushers. One of the Cam Wake sacks he went to block inside (the ZBS says to block play-side so if he thought the play was going left, he should block left. Too bad it left Wake open) and left wake on his own. When he tried to recover, he could only get his hands on him and Wake easily "beat him"

He's definitely capable of making a sizeable contribution at LT.

[ElectricEye]

Vollmer at LT last year was SOOOO much better than both Light at LT this year plus last and Vollmer at RT this year. He's clearly more comfortable on that side of the line. Think we can move him there after he cut Light like we should have years ago. Sorry Matt, we like you, but you're hurting our football team on a weakly basis. We can pick up a Nate Solder or Lee Ziemba type later in the draft and feel better about our tackle situation.

[ElectricEye]

Guys, I'm honestly not trying to be an ass...but how humbled is Randy Moss right now?

Also; Merriweather is ******* hilarious

http://cbsboston.files.wordpress.com/2010/11/meriweatherhat2.jpg



http://boston.cbslocal.com/2010/11/22/brandon-meriweathers-spiffy-new-hat/

[FlyingElvis]

Guys, I'm honestly not trying to be an ass...but how humbled is Randy Moss right now?

Also; Merriweather is ******* hilarious

http://cbsboston.files.wordpress.com/2010/11/meriweatherhat2.jpg



http://boston.cbslocal.com/2010/11/22/brandon-meriweathers-spiffy-new-hat/

Pimptastic!


On Moss . . . I think we're just seeing the lack of effort catching up with an older player. While the obviously rolled coverages made things a little easier on everyone, the jogging, gator armed, lazy BS is what made him the ineffective guy he is right now.

[descendency]

As I predicted, Randy Moss had his best game the week after he was traded to the Vikings. He fell way short of my expectations though: 81 yards on 4 catches with 1 TD. His only multi touchdown game was against buffalo with 2 TDs on 2 catches for 42 yards.

He's had 4 1 or fewer catch games. Those games account for 44 total yards and 0 TDs.

An average game from Randy Moss right now looks like 3 catches, 40 yards, and maybe or maybe not a score.

edit: His season "prediction" totals from ESPN right now are 37 catches, 542 yards, and 8 touchdowns. The only number that wouldn't be a career low would be those 8 TDs. He had 3 one year as a Raider. Everything else is on pace to be the career low for him.

previous lows are: 42 receptions, 553 yards, and 3 touchdowns - all in the same year [last year] as a Raider.

If you exclude that year as one he "dogged", then the next worse season is: 49, 767, and 13. His last year as Viking... also considered to be "dogged".

The man is either in need of a serious moment in his life or he needs to retire. Either he is done or he is dogging it.

[ElectricEye]

I was more referring to him being traded to the Vikes mess then going into the Titans one with Fisher and Vince Young.

Also; classic Merriweather

p9J4y9p29O8

[nepg]

HAHAHA!

Big Bang Clock...and the pimp hat. I love that guy.

[Jvig43]

So I need to make a big decision. My hair is much longer then usual and I'm deciding whether to cut it before the jets game or go with it as Brady's look alike and make a sign or something. I seriously will look scary close to Brady if I keep it and wear a 12 jersey.

[descendency]

What's the Big Bang Clock?

---

I hope none of us are superstitious because cutting your hair and the patriots losing to the Jets would be brutal.

[Jvig43]

Haha ok I'll keep it just in case. I'm thinking of making a sign proping the Bradys hair and something about Bieber being a *****, but being appropriate as to not get it taken.

[Nalej]

Hell yea keep the hair

[FlyingElvis]

draw a dimple on your chin (unless you have one) with some eyeliner and get your mug on the tele!!!

lol


Big Bang Clock. OMG these guys are so not bright. lol


(Big Ben. I assume the video clip is from the year we went to London. He's also talking about teammates going to a "hunted house" as we were there around Halloween.)

[ElectricEye]

Yeah, Meriweather is a hell of a football player and a smart one(For the most part) but he really sounds dumb. It's alright though, dudes a baller and a pretty funny guy.

[FlyingElvis]

I'm cool with that. I have never held the expectation that pro athletes will be the most brilliant, ethical, or pleasant people. lol

Sadly, when it comes to American intellect and knowledge, it's not just athletes that might mistake the name of a world famous landmark.

[Razor]

I'm cool with that. I have never held the expectation that pro athletes will be the most brilliant, ethical, or pleasant people. lol

Sadly, when it comes to American intellect and knowledge, it's not just athletes that might mistake the name of a world famous landmark.
Haha, that's certainly the perception here in Europe:

q566ys0sqVQ

K8g3Gb5-jaY&feature=related

I admit that the first video is australian but that's pretty much the consensus here as well haha...

[ElectricEye]

Eh, I actually kind of resent that type of stuff. Fancy video editing to get in a cheap laugh, for the most part. I know a lot of European people and some of them would struggle with those questions as well. We're a bit more cut off and isolated from the rest of the world as our border countries are completely different, so you have different dynamics going on. This is going to get political pretty fast though, but yeah, I don't think you can judge the intellectual integrity of a country because of some douche guy from Australia going to the South and walking up to people who clearly look like they don't know **** about anything.

[Razor]

Eh, I actually kind of resent that type of stuff. Fancy video editing to get in a cheap laugh, for the most part. I know a lot of European people and some of them would struggle with those questions as well. We're a bit more cut off and isolated from the rest of the world as our border countries are completely different, so you have different dynamics going on. This is going to get political pretty fast though, but yeah, I don't think you can judge the intellectual integrity of a country because of some douche guy from Australia going to the South and walking up to people who clearly look like they don't know **** about anything.


Oh, I don't think that americans are like this. It's just what the vast majority of people think. I know some americans and they are very intelligent and knowledgable people. But in general I do think that americans don't know as much about the outside world as for example europeans. But not all are as stupid as these idiots haha..

[FlyingElvis]

Oh, I don't think that americans are like this. It's just what the vast majority of people think. I know some americans and they are very intelligent and knowledgable people. But in general I do think that americans don't know as much about the outside world as for example europeans. But not all are as stupid as these idiots haha..

This is what I was getting at. Americans have a piss poor knowledge of anything outside of North America. However, every country has it's idiots, especially hot chicks. lol

FWIW - any opinion of Americans that is based off of the **** we pump out over the airwaves is going to be pretty poor. As Americans we have the choice to put an end to that stream of filth but don't. As such, I don't get too upset if someone views us negatively because of it, though I also don't put much stock in anyone who draws a conclusion based on that particular media, either.

[Don Vito]

So the Cards are trying to ship Fitzgerald. Yes please.

[FlyingElvis]

So the Cards are trying to ship Fitzgerald. Yes please.

Shenanigans!

Source??


Holy ******* hell is "Yes please" ever an understatement. Oakland's 1st and even throw in our 3rds and I'd be thrilled.

[ElectricEye]

Yup, if that's the case, Fitz is a Patriot. It's just way to perfect a fit. I have a hard time saying bye to the possibility of AJ Green or Julio Jones, but he's just too perfect a fit to pass up. We were hot for Boldin too, but we'll be lava hot for Fitz.

[FlyingElvis]

Don Vito with a hit and run . . . bastiche!

I am not finding anything on teh webz about him being on the block. It seems about as likely as SJax trades were at this time last year. But now I'm all hot for him. Thanks Don! lol

[ElectricEye]

Someone find me a Larry Fitzgerald blow up doll for us to bang.


Yeah, I haven't seen anything more than rumblings that have been going on. No real story.

[Jvig43]

How old is Fitz, he's also been having trouble staying healthy. But I wouldnt be opposed to getting him, hopefully not with a first tho.

[FlyingElvis]

27 as of August. He's only banged up this year b/c Matt Lienart sucks and hung him out to dry in preseason and he got his knee smushed. Otherwise he's been pretty stout.


He's far better than Marshall, works hard, and doesn't act like a cry baby +/- jackass in his off the field dealings. I'd say he's worth a 1st.

[ElectricEye]

How old is Fitz, he's also been having trouble staying healthy. But I wouldnt be opposed to getting him, hopefully not with a first tho.

27, 28 next year. Three or four productive years, conservatively because he's also the type of guy who won't suddenly disappear when his footspeed leaves him. That's worth a first IMO. If we can bring in a big time wide receiver, that's really like drafting two impact players because you get Wes Welker playing at a high level again because you can do some of the thing you used to be able to do with him like line him up with Moss(Or Fitz) and have the coverage not be able to account for him. You also make Edelmen and Tate that much better too. Complimentary receivers become more effective, basically. Fitz is in some ways a better fit than a Moss type for where this offense is headed too. He doesn't need a ton of risky passes down the field to be a useful player. His mid range game 15 yards down the field is fantastic. He can also hurt you deep with his leaping ability and body control, but he doesn't need the ball chucked up five times a game.

[Jvig43]

I just wouldnt want to part with a first in this draft that has a ton of good DEs and WRs. I would looove to have him, hes a very classy guy and works hella hard. Also we know how Arizona is with trading their WRs like they did to Boldin.

[FlyingElvis]

^^ Exactamundo.

He's a perfect fit for this offense. Full route tree but best served running 15 yards or deeper. Big, tall & aggressive going for the ball. Studly red zone target. Sure handed and always giving 100% in both pass an run game plays.

[ElectricEye]

I just wouldnt want to part with a first in this draft that has a ton of good DEs and WRs. I would looove to have him, hes a very classy guy and works hella hard. Also we know how Arizona is with trading their WRs like they did to Boldin.

Well, if you figure we've using one of those picks on a wide receiver anyway, it's really not that bad of a deal if the Cards are going to trade him. The great part of having all those defensive ends is that one of them will fall. JJ Watt is probably my top guy right now if he comes out and he might last until the second round even.

[FlyingElvis]

I'll take Fitz over the next Watson / Graham / Maroney. Let's not forget that picks can bust.

It's all irrelvant since nothing could even be done until the off season. Rumors that can't be acted on for another 3 months FTMFL!

[ElectricEye]

I'll take Fitz over the next Watson / Graham / Maroney. Let's not forget that picks can bust.

It's all irrelvant since nothing could even be done until the off season. Rumors that can't be acted on for another 3 months FTMFL!

Yeah, I agree. All of those guys looked promising and did next to nothing for us outside of Graham who was a heck of a blocker.

Article here, but let's stash this for the offseason.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/story/14322280/cards-struggles-leave-fitzgerald-with-little-room-to-run


But yeah, anyone start thinking about the Lions yet?

[FlyingElvis]

12.30 start leading right into dinner. **** yeah!


I'm getting excited (and a bit sleepy) just thinking about it.

[FlyingElvis]

It should be throwback again, too. Awesomeness!! All white would be fantastic.

[Babylon]

Normally i dont care how rich folk spend their money but a #1 wr is going to cost you a heck of a lot less than a Larry Fitzgerald. I'd probably wait and see if they could grab one of the so called big 4 or 5 (whatever it is today) and if not then go ahead and make a trade.

Wr and 3-4 DE would be my priority and that is clearly the strength of this draft.

[FlyingElvis]

Normally i dont care how rich folk spend their money but a #1 wr is going to cost you a heck of a lot less than a Larry Fitzgerald. I'd probably wait and see if they could grab one of the so called big 4 or 5 (whatever it is today) and if not then go ahead and make a trade.

Wr and 3-4 DE would be my priority and that is clearly the strength of this draft.

Like EE was saying - if it's the strength of the draft we can afford to move a higher pick for a guy like Fitz. I'll take the polished stud for 5 or 6 years over the 'potential' of a guy that likely won't help immediately. Brady ain't no spring chicken, ya dig?

We could still land the DE / OLB / etc. with all the picks we have. We're only going to trade them away for more future picks anyway. It's almost a case of Fitzgerald vs. the perpetual trade into next year's draft.

[ElectricEye]

Normally i dont care how rich folk spend their money but a #1 wr is going to cost you a heck of a lot less than a Larry Fitzgerald. I'd probably wait and see if they could grab one of the so called big 4 or 5 (whatever it is today) and if not then go ahead and make a trade.

Wr and 3-4 DE would be my priority and that is clearly the strength of this draft.

I'm pretty much with Elvis right now. Wouldn't hurt to add some potential, but it would be be better to get someone who has already converted his potential.

Agree about priorities though. We're in a unique position with both of those needs. A true number one wide receiver makes our offense better on all fronts in a lot of ways as I mentioned before and we have a chance to turn a weakness in DE into an instant strength if we find someone who can play and then get a Ty Warren healthy. We have superb depth and situational guys there with Mike Wright, Ron Brace, and Myron Pryor. An alpha dog turns that group into something special potentially.

As far as the Lions go, the matchup favor us if we can get the ball down the field. Think this is another good Woodhead game potentially and Brady should do pretty well too. We get a hell of a measuring stick for McCourty against CJ too. That's far and away the most important thing to lookout for outside of stopping Suh and that defensive line.

[FlyingElvis]

McCourty has been more impressive each week. It's definitely going to be interesting to see what kind of game he can produce against a pass happy team. It's a solid test, actually, since CJ / Burleson / Pettigrew are a good group of pass catching threats.

[ElectricEye]

McCourtey has been more impressive each week. It's definitely going to be interesting to see what kind of game he can produce against a pass happy team. It's a solid test, actually, since CJ / Burleson / Pettigrew are a good group of pass catching threats.

Honestly not worried about him. I can honestly see McCourty becoming better than Asante ever was for us. Maybe I'm getting over excited, but you don't see him getting beat a whole hell of a lot and he's been asked to do more than any rookie corner in the league.

[FlyingElvis]

Honestly not worried about him. I can honestly see McCourty becoming better than Asante ever was for us. Maybe I'm getting over excited, but you don't see him getting beat a whole hell of a lot and he's been asked to do more than any rookie corner in the league.

I don't think you're over excited at all. I see a kid who looks to have all the tools required to become an elite CB.

It's a double edged sword, anyway. If he does become that stud CB he'll probably just skip town when he hits FA b/c we won't pay him. :(

[ElectricEye]

I'm not thinking about that haha. Probably right, but it's nice to think we have a guy who can be potentially elite at his position. Strong, strong candidate for DROY. Won't win it because of Suh, but deserves second.

[FlyingElvis]

Agreed. Suh has been sick, that's for damn sure. He's heading for a unanimous vote.

[ElectricEye]

And straight for Brady's asshole the way our line has been playing.

j/k, but he does scare me.

[Nalej]

I'd definitely give our top draft pick for Fitz. Hell yea!
Instantly, our offense becomes top 3 and becomes damn near impossible to stop again
OLB/DE/OL with the rest of our picks and we're set.
Maybe if a do-it-all running back drops then we get snatch him up to split carries with BJGE with Woody as the 3rd down back.

Also, do you see a role for Faulk anymore? How do we use both Faulk and Woody next year?

[Don Vito]

Ha sorry for the hit and run. I was watching the Sunday night game and before the half they said something along the lines of Fitz is on his way our of Arizona, and as EE said he is a perfect fit here.

[ElectricEye]

I'd definitely give our top draft pick for Fitz. Hell yea!
Instantly, our offense becomes top 3 and becomes damn near impossible to stop again
OLB/DE/OL with the rest of our picks and we're set.
Maybe if a do-it-all running back drops then we get snatch him up to split carries with BJGE with Woody as the 3rd down back.

Also, do you see a role for Faulk anymore? How do we use both Faulk and Woody next year?

I think Mr. Patriot is done and it has a lot to do with Woodhead. Danny does everything Kevin Faulk does and runs the ball better at this point in their careers.

[nepg]

Well...I dunno, EE... I could see them using Woody & Faulk like they used Faulk & Pass. That dual RB screen where Brady fakes to one, does a pirouette and slings it to the other was the best play in their playbook when they were winning Super Bowls.

[ElectricEye]

Well...I dunno, EE... I could see them using Woody & Faulk like they used Faulk & Pass. That dual RB screen where Brady fakes to one, does a pirouette and slings it to the other was the best play in their playbook when they were winning Super Bowls.

Yeah, that could work. I suppose it's all about what Faulk wants at this point. His situation from an outside perspective seems very reminiscent of Tim Wakefield's. If we want him back bad enough, he'll likely be back.

[Razor]

So.... Tom Brady is listed as questionable for tomorrow's game. I still think he will play though, but how do you guys feel about the game should Hoyer get the start? Personally I think we will win the game no matter who is starting at QB, but I'd prefer Brady to play of course.

[Jvig43]

So.... Tom Brady is listed as questionable for tomorrow's game. I still think he will play though, but how do you guys feel about the game should Hoyer get the start? Personally I think we will win the game no matter who is starting at QB, but I'd prefer Brady to play of course.

Hey dont say such things. We dont want this turning into the Browns game all over.

[nepg]

LOL. They're back to putting Brady on the injury list? That is a good sign.

I think Hoyer will play in this game...but not until the 4th quarter.

[ElectricEye]

I would bet anything he'll play. It's the foot that's bothering him I think, the shoulder is this elaborate scheme to always list Brady on the injury report they find to be a good decision for some reason.

[FlyingElvis]

21 hours and counting . . .

[descendency]

9 hours and counting . . .

Huh? What's happening at 0030 eastern?

[FlyingElvis]

Why you gotta tamper with my posts?














;)

I need more sleep.

[Jvig43]

Ive become deathly sick since yesterday, which means I'm going to be sleeping for mostly the rest of the day/night and hopefully wake up exactly at 1230 to catch the game.

[ElectricEye]

Good luck dude. Hope you get healthy and such.

[Jvig43]

Thanks man, the worst part is my throat is so swollen I'm having a hard time swallowing liquids, so hopefully it gets better by tomorrow. Either way I'm just happy we only had to wait like four days for the next game haha.

[Nalej]

Dr. Nalej here:

You're suffering from withdrawal. Lucky you, you dont have to wait until Sunday to get your fix.
Tomorrow at noon- TV- be there and you'll get your fix.
A good ol' blow out will have you back on your feet in no time.
No need to thank me though. Im just doing my job.

Take care.

[ElectricEye]

Not sure about the blowout. This is sandwiched between two really important games for us, really the definition of a trap game.

[Jvig43]

Yep, I really hope we show up tomorrow and play. Detroit is going to show up and want to win this game, they havent won on Thanks turkey day in awhile.

[ElectricEye]

I would love for us to assist them in keeping up with that trend, but it is a big time trap game. They play really solid defense.

[Razor]

7 hours!!! Woohoo!

[ElectricEye]

Happy Thanksgiving guys!!!

[Jvig43]

Happy thanks giving my fellow SWDC Pats brothers. May we welcome the Lions with love and thankfullness and then slaughter them and take their land today :)

[Razor]

Happy thanks giving my fellow SWDC Pats brothers. May we welcome the Lions with love and thankfullness and then slaughter them and take their land today :)

Brillant! :)

Happy Thanksgiving to you Americans. We don't celebrate Thanksgiving here in my part of the world, but ever since I starting watching football I've started to do so as well. I don't like turkey, so I always cook duck haha.

[Jvig43]

How is duck, Ive been tempted to get it but never have.

[Razor]

How is duck, Ive been tempted to get it but never have.

Duck is the ****, there's nothing close to it imo. You should really try to make it some time. Goose is good as well, but duck takes the prize imo. Here we eat duck with potatoes, gravy and red cabbage combined with plenty of red wine haha. :) Wine for tonight is an italian Brunello, I can't wait! It's going to be soooo hard getting to class tomorrow at 8 AM!

[nepg]

Trying to decide what hangover fetal position to lay in as I watch the Pats game.

[nepg]

Throwbacks ftw!

[Wootylicous]

Well it's been a long time since I posted in this thread so GO PATS! and Happy Thanksgiving all of you!

[Razor]

And Woody just got an extension! Yes!

http://www.bostonherald.com/blogs/sports/rap_sheet/index.php/2010/11/25/thankful-for-each-other-patriots-and-rb-danny-woodhead-reach-a-long-term-contract-extension/

[Jvig43]

Yes! Thank you Jets, I dont think we can thank you enough.... Maybe if you lost tonight and next week haha.

GAME TIME!

[AntoinCD]

Ten mins left in work then home to watch the rest of the game. Cant wait!!!

[Jvig43]

I know some people are down on Mayo, but the dude is doing sooo much better this year then last year. Just made a sick open field tackle. His coverage skills could get better tho.

[nepg]

That's really cheap, too.

[Nalej]

Nice play by Merriweather

[Jvig43]

Oh of course, I praise Mayo and then Shuan ******* hill scrambles past him.

[Nalej]

This is flashbacks of the Browns game.
We can't do anything right on D or O.
B. Tate can't even reach the 20 on returns.
NOT ONE THING IS GOING WELL!

[Razor]

That was a great run by Lawfirm!

[AntoinCD]

I loved that play calling on the TD drive. Luckily Tate's drop didn't hurt us and there are things that can slow down Suh and KVB et al. Defensively it's same old, same old unfortunately. They are getting close but not getting there.

[Jvig43]

Tate needs to ******* learn how to catch. That was a beautiful play and Brady hit him perfectly.

[nepg]

O'Brien made some serious improvements as a play-caller in this game.

[Jvig43]

Our offensive gameplan has looked so much better since that Browns game. Were getting everyone involved now, which is exactly what we used to do during our SB runs.

[nepg]

So what are the odds of a Mankins-Suh frackus on Thursday?

Wish I had taken bets on this one.

[Razor]

Wow... We're an elite pass rusher away from being scary good. I've said it earlier, and I know this is the Lions, but stil...

[Jvig43]

Now, onto the ******* Jets. I pray to God we bring our A game and get that win. We need this revenge, and we'll be in great shape.

[nepg]

They just need to play with that intensity all the time.

[Jvig43]

We need to come out and smash them right off the bat. I really dont want to go to that game and lose. Hopefully now that our offense seems to be clicking (hopefully) we'll be able to move the ball easier then Brady just staring down Moss every play.

[descendency]

Brandon Tate needs to stick his hands in glue or something.

Because dropping easy throws in a dome in November isn't usually a good sign for catching hard passes thrown in icy Foxboro in late January.

[Jvig43]

Bethel Johnson.........

[Razor]

Bethel Johnson.........

I'm starting to think so too.. I had such high expectations for him though...

[Nalej]

Its still too early for us to write him off.
I still think he can become a solid number two.
Like Branch is for us but even better.
He did miss an entire year bc of that knee... I'll chuck this up to rust.

[ElectricEye]

Nice win guys. We got a deep ball today! I was so excited. I missed passing down the field.

Also; Brandon Tate sort of sucks right now.

[descendency]

He just needs to find his hands.

[ElectricEye]

Sucked ass on returns too. No burst.

[nepg]

Well...that was more of a blocking/kick coverage issue than anything to do with Tate.

[ElectricEye]

Well...that was more of a blocking/kick coverage issue than anything to do with Tate.

I agree that it was horrible blocking breakdowns, but on one specifically he really didn't seem to get up the field fast as he should have. He had a very poor game today overall.

But yeah, it was nice to see the mid range and deep passing game today. The bomb to Branch was a little fluky, but it was busted coverage and we will take that every day of the week. Gronk made some nice catches down the field and Welker did some nice things too.

Oh, and how impressed should we be with McCourty. We hit BIIIIIG time with him by the looks of it. Punished the Lions for throwing to his side of the field. CJ had a big day, but a lot of that was on Arrington and against zone coverage. Shut him down in man situations and had that awesome return too. Teams will start throwing away from him soon. If we can somehow find another corner that won't give up every opposing receivers best game, we're in good shape.

[descendency]

Well...that was more of a blocking/kick coverage issue than anything to do with Tate.

Yea, this.

It's not Tate's problem on the KRs.

[ElectricEye]

Honestly feel like it was a little bit of both on some of them. The blocking was horrible, but he also didn't get up the field fast on a few. Feel like he could have gotten it up to at least the twenty on the one of the kicks in the second half and instead we started with **** field position. But yeah, Tate the returner is fine, not worried about that, but Tate the returner has **** hands.

[proshoota25]

heyyyy guys focus on alot of the positives from this game just not the negative. ive only seen negative from u guys the past few weeks. we are 9-2, we should be more happy than anything else

[AntoinCD]

I think we gotta hold our hands up to the Lions STs yesterday. Every kick pinned Tate down in the right hand corner and getting a good return from there was going to be tough.

[ElectricEye]

heyyyy guys focus on alot of the positives from this game just not the negative. ive only seen negative from u guys the past few weeks. we are 9-2, we should be more happy than anything else

I'm very positive right now. We did everything we had to that game and did not let them back into the game once we took the lead. We had actual stops, and that's nice. McCourty had a coming out party today. Shut down CJ when he on him in man. Don't think he allowed a catch to him in a man situation.

[Matthew Jones]

Impressive performances all around. Seemed like Chung/Meriweather struggled a little bit and the defensive line had some trouble stopping the run, but it's hard to complain with a three-touchdown win on a short week. Let's take down the Jets this week!

[ElectricEye]

Impressive performances all around. Seemed like Chung/Meriweather struggled a little bit and the defensive line had some trouble stopping the run, but it's hard to complain with a three-touchdown win on a short week. Let's take down the Jets this week!

Yeah, I agree with that. Safeties had a bad game. Out of position a lot of the time. Limited film study time? Really could be. Defensive line did look worn down without at times sans Wilfork.

[nepg]

I think we got to see just how good Mike Wright has become... Really need him back healthy ASAP. Everything was working for the Pats in the second half, though. Great playcalling on offense.

[ElectricEye]

I think we got to see just how good Mike Wright has become... Really need him back healthy ASAP. Everything was working for the Pats in the second half, though. Great playcalling on offense.

Yeah, Wright's loss hurts a lot. Hopefully he can come back from that concussion soon.

Agree about the playcalling. We threw the ball down the field well and that's something we have not been able to do at times. We've improved a lot in that area the past three weeks. We're defiantly a better football team on offense than we were before the Browns game, which I think taught this team a lot.

[AntoinCD]

Yeah, I agree with that. Safeties had a bad game. Out of position a lot of the time. Limited film study time? Really could be. Defensive line did look worn down without at times sans Wilfork.

The depth on the line was very thin. Only Wilfork, Love, Brace and Warren were used. It showed when the two top interior pass rushers were missing

[AntoinCD]

Yeah, Wright's loss hurts a lot. Hopefully he can come back from that concussion soon.

Agree about the playcalling. We threw the ball down the field well and that's something we have not been able to do at times. We've improved a lot in that area the past three weeks. We're defiantly a better football team on offense than we were before the Browns game, which I think taught this team a lot.

I really loved how Gronk was able to get down the seam. Obviously not all pass defenses are the Lions but that may force teams to look after the middle more and Branch and Tate(if he can hold on to the ball) may see more favourable matchups out wide

[ElectricEye]

Thing I really loved about the game is how the playcalls improved at the end. First half was a bit ugly, but we made adjustments and went from there.

[BradysKnee]

heyyyy guys focus on alot of the positives from this game just not the negative. ive only seen negative from u guys the past few weeks. we are 9-2, we should be more happy than anything else

Damn right. No NFL team is perfect. I for one am confident going into the Jets game, they really haven't been impressive of late. Only having the passing success they had against that bengals secondary is pathetic.

[AntoinCD]

Thing I really loved about the game is how the playcalls improved at the end. First half was a bit ugly, but we made adjustments and went from there.

Yeah that's the surprising thing about it compared to the rest of the season. Normally there are not enough adjustments and teams catch up with us in the second half. At least this time we got into a rut and we got out with some tremendous offensive play calling

[ElectricEye]

Blocking improved to. Suh and KVB were just abusing Brady for the first half yesterday.

[AntoinCD]

Blocking improved to. Suh and KVB were just abusing Brady for the first half yesterday.

The TD drive at the end of the first was the start of the great play calling. We established the run more, a few good draws kept them off balance too. Then there was a mix of short throws, play action and taking shots deep which meant the d line couldn't just pin their ears back

[nepg]

I'm a fan of the Patriots. I think they're pretty good.

[ElectricEye]

I'm a fan of the Patriots. I think they're pretty good.

Agree. Awesome part is that we have not played our best football yet. We have the potential to get better, this season too.

[nepg]

I'm leaning towards Nate Solder, Von Miller, and Ryan Kerrigan for guys the Patriots have a realistic chance of drafting in the first round. Throw Stefan Wisniewski and Kris O'Dowd in there for possibilities with the first 33 picks...

Solder fits the mold of what the Patriots have been looking for from OLs they draft, Miller is in the Rosevelt Colvin mold and has developed into an all-around player playing outside, (I previously held that I didn't think he fit what they're looking for at OLB, but they have their newMcGinnest in Cunningham.) The Prince of Blades (I'm going to keep saying it until it catches on) is just a great player - could be the next Clay Matthews, and Wisniewski and O'Dowd are borderline potential franchise centers with good size and great potential (though I'd be amazed if Belichick drafted either a Penn State or USC player).

I'd like a WR and a RB, but with all of their current receivers signed through next year and playing great, I see OL and continuing to build on that defense as more pressing issues.

[ElectricEye]

Ew on Solder. He does not play up to his measurables like...ever. Looks flat out ugly blocking out there. Upside is immense, but I wouldn't touch him before the third.

[nepg]

I really wanted Jared Veldheer this past draft...

[ElectricEye]

I really wanted Jared Veldheer this past draft...

Yeah, he's playing great in Oakland and Solder is similar physically, but he really just flat out does not play well at times.

[nepg]

Watching the Iron Bowl... The two unrealistic guys I want are Marcel Dareus and Julio Jones...

[Razor]

Soo.... How about that McCourty guy haha? I think that it was consesus amongst Patriots fans that he was a perfect fit in our defense before the draft, but nobody considered him to be a possibility for us. Well, as usual we were wrong and BB once again looks like a genious. I was thinking about the last time I saw a rookie corner playing at his level, and I couldn't think of one (although I am sure that there have been rookie corners performing at and above his level before). Still, I couldn't help comparing him to Darrelle Revis in his first year. I liked Revis coming out of Pitt so I paid a lot of attention to him in his first year. I think he started slowly and some time during the season he started flashing his lockdown potential. In his second year he was basically a shutdown corner, and we all know that he had a great, great season last year. So where am I going with this?

McCourty has been great for us this year. Sure, he's been beaten from time to time but I consider that a part of his progression as a NFL corner. Still, I'd like to know what you consider his ceiling to be. Personally, I think he could develop into a Ty Law/Darrelle Revis type of player, he has looked that good. I'm not crowning him yet, but really.... This guy just delivers. Also, he doesn't seem to be a headcase like many other talented players at his position, he apparantly works hard and understands the finer details of the defense at this early stage of his career, which I find impressive. So what do you guys think? Is he going to be the next Ty Law/Darrelle Revis, or is this his level? Remember, he is doing this with a minimum of pass rush. I am really, really impressed and just needed to go public with my mancrush here haha.

[Matthew Jones]

Thanksgiving was really his coming-out party. He has substantially improved over the course of the season. Certainly looking like a future stud on the defense. Now if only Darius Butler would show us something.

[Jvig43]

This draft in general for us, has been insanely good. Almost everyone starts or has significant playing time. How long do you think Brady has it in him to play at a high level, you think he can make it as old as Warner and Farve did? Or does anyone see us trying to draft someone early these next few years?

[proshoota25]

nepg i respect ur opinions but von miller is a guy the patriots will never draft in a million years. write it down bro lol

[AntoinCD]

This draft in general for us, has been insanely good. Almost everyone starts or has significant playing time. How long do you think Brady has it in him to play at a high level, you think he can make it as old as Warner and Farve did? Or does anyone see us trying to draft someone early these next few years?

I think Brady has at least this contract left in him. He could probably play until he is in his late 30s with no problem. Favre's problem isn't that he's too old all of a sudden now, it's the beating he's taken his whole career and the type of football he plays leaves him succeptible to injuries. But because of this ironman thing he's got going on he'll be too stubborn to sit for a game or two. I think Brady will go the Kurt Warner route. Retire at about 38 when he can still get it done, but doesn't want to leave one year too late. So maybe a QB will be drafted in two or three years but not soon IMO

[ElectricEye]

I am happy to say I was right on McCourty. I helped somebody mock him to us before the draft and was huge on him ever since. Thought he would be a stud, but not this quickly.

[Nalej]

Well, I'll admit I didn't see the McCourty pick coming nor did I like it at the time.
This was with Bodden being healthy, Butler showing he could be a servicable number 2 and Wilhite holding down the nickel
I just didn't see space for him. I knew he's good at KR as well and we lacked in that department last year (Thank God Tate is holding that down so McCourty stays fresh for D)

I'll eat crow all day every day with a smile on my face!

[descendency]

Interesting trivia you can pull on random people:

Who are the only 2 (non management, non referees... coaches and players only please) that have been a part of all 3 of the Giants Super Bowl victories?

Who is the only member (coach/player) of all 6 of the Patriots Super Bowl teams?

---

Knowing either will impress me ;) (Googling it however will not :P). If you want a hint on the first one, it's posted in a Patriots thread for a reason.

[Razor]

I'm pretty sure that the answer to the second one is Dante Scarnecchia, but I don't know about the first one.. Parcells and Belichick would be the obvious answers, but I don't think it's right. Phil Simms and LT might be the answer to the second one? I don't know...

[nepg]

Second one is definitely Dante. First one is Tom Coughlin.

[descendency]

Belichick is one of the first (the easy one - the second one is someone who would have been overlooked in 07, but probably not in 85 or 90), but third Super Bowl (2007) had nothing to do with Parcells

Dante is the second.

edit: I don't think Coughlin was involved in 85 or 90. Let me check.

edit2: If you are curious

Belichick was the DC in NY in 85, 90 and the HC in NE in 07. Pepper Johnson was the ILB in NY in 85, 90, and the DL Coach in NE in 07.

Dante S has been the Patriots OL coach... forever.

[Don Vito]

Do you guys think we make a move on Fitzgerald. It makes sense since he is such a good fit, but our offense has been great but we still don't have a true #1 (Branch is really playing well but still), we need size at the position too. Our TE's have been great, but I still think it would make sense even though we do need the draft picks to help on defense. So many variables, but I would love to see Fitzgerald in a Pats uniform.

[Razor]

Should we if the price is right? Yes, no doubt about it imo.
Will we? I don't know, I'm sure BB will give it some thought. A true #1 receiver would give us a whole other dimension on offense. I don't consider it as a real possibility though, since some other team will make some ridiculous offer that BB won't match.

[ElectricEye]

I think we absolutely have to if he gets on the market, unless it's a franchise breaking trade.

[Jvig43]

I think it depends on how far we get this year and how our offense performs in the post season (assuming we get there). I mean look what happened after we lost to the Colts in 2006. BB had our offense go super sayian 3.

[nepg]

I think it depends on what the salary cap looks like coming out of the (hopefully) new CBA.

[Jvig43]

Were also going to have an 18 game schedule so idk how this affects the current contracts of every player. No way are the players taking pre season checks for regular games.

[ElectricEye]

18 game schedule...vomit.

[Jvig43]

It's going to happen, theres nothing we can do about it, the "fans" have spoken. It's so annoying, on top of which the two new games favor the good teams because as of now the top teams in the division will play two of the bottom teams in another division and vice versa for the **** teams.

[ElectricEye]

I'm just going to hope the players bail us out. They're opposed to 18 games. Maybe some agreement can be reached where it does not happen. Brady's touchdown record is gone first season if they put up two more games, which kind of sucks.

[Jvig43]

Yeah that would certainly suck. But I can promise it's going to happen, Goodell has his dick so hard for his 18 game schedule that he hasnt even looked into getting a new deal done for next year.

[Nalej]

Do you guys think we make a move on Fitzgerald. It makes sense since he is such a good fit, but our offense has been great but we still don't have a true #1 (Branch is really playing well but still), we need size at the position too. Our TE's have been great, but I still think it would make sense even though we do need the draft picks to help on defense. So many variables, but I would love to see Fitzgerald in a Pats uniform.

Definitely. I'll more than happily trade OAK's 1st and our 3rd for him.
I think we would reach 2007 status (numbers wise) offensively.
You just wouldn't be able to stop anything. Making BJGE/WH even that more effective.

[AntoinCD]

Agree that Fitz would be a great fit offensively. However what worries me is his contract. He will deservedly be the highest paid WR in the NFL. Im not sure BB will want to give up two top 100 picks and a major contract

[ElectricEye]

I hope he does.

[FlyingElvis]

I love long weekends. Thursday & Friday off . . . . mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Hope y'all had a nice Thanksgiving - even if it was a pseudo, duck filled holiday across the pond. lol

anyway . . .

McCourty is making a case for DROY. It will take a big finish for him to wrest that particluar award away from Suh, but he looks like he's improving by leaps and bounds at this point.

WR - I honestly think we'll show major interest in Fitz +/- VJax next year. Obviously it will depend on the pricetag each carries, but each guy would provide the skill set and experience we need to be beastly on offense for the final years of Brady's shelf life. I think the talent here is better than other positions of need via FA / trades.

The wheels seem to be falling off in Oakland. So we've got that going for us, which is nice. 10-15 is still a very reasonable expectation with that pick.

[AntoinCD]

I love long weekends. Thursday & Friday off . . . . mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Hope y'all had a nice Thanksgiving - even if it was a pseudo, duck filled holiday across the pond. lol

anyway . . .

McCourty is making a case for DROY. It will take a big finish for him to wrest that particluar award away from Suh, but he looks like he's improving by leaps and bounds at this point.

WR - I honestly think we'll show major interest in Fitz +/- VJax next year. Obviously it will depend on the pricetag each carries, but each guy would provide the skill set and experience we need to be beastly on offense for the final years of Brady's shelf life. I think the talent here is better than other positions of need via FA / trades.

The wheels seem to be falling off in Oakland. So we've got that going for us, which is nice. 10-15 is still a very reasonable expectation with that pick.

If McCourty finishes in the 7-10 range of INTs and continues to lock down opposing WRs he has a chance. But Suh is still odds on at the moment.

I think the CBA will have a big bearing on whether we go for one of the WRs available in the offseason. If no salary cap then maybe.

If you're ever looking for one franchise to somehow **** something up it's always good to start at Oakland.

[ElectricEye]

Oakland has a real tough schedule down the stretch. Very possible they lose out the rest of the year.

Chargers are a buzz saw right now. Probably a pretty sure loss there.

Jacksonville needs to keep winning to keep the division title hopes alive. They have more to play for right now.

Denver...blah. Hopefully they can get their **** together and McDaniel's can do us a favor.

Indy, same as Jacksonville. They'll be fighting for a playoff berth. Actually think the Raiders match up fairly well with them though. Could be interesting.

Kansas City will need to keep winning to stave off the Chargers and that game will probably be very important.

[Jvig43]

Monday Nights game will mark only the fourth time that two teams with a record of 9-2 or better have played against each other. BB has been apart of three of those games. Haha own.

[ElectricEye]

Gotta get that win. Absolutely have to. Don't think we've played in a bigger game since our last Super Bowl.

[Jvig43]

Yeah it really is a big game, I pray to God we come out like we have the last few weeks. If we lose we'd be 1-3 to Ryan and the Jets...... ew.

[ElectricEye]

Name of the game is to beat the blitz. We had them on the ropes in the first half last game and should have won that game. We're at hope now and the Jets won't be getting any free plays by tossing the ball up to Randy for an entire quarter.

[FlyingElvis]

This second meeting will be the test of what we saw as Brady forcing the ball to Moss. The fact that BB rarely loses to the same team twice in a season bodes well for us, as does the fact that this meeting is in Foxboro. But we really need to play well and take this win. It is very likely to be the deciding factor in playoff seeding, as both teams will be top 5 records, I think.

Loser of this contest (especially if it's us going 0-2 vs. the Jets) will likely be the second best record in the AFC only to land a Wildcard berth. F--- that.

[descendency]

A win this week and a Jets win against the Steelers and the Patriots basically would have home field locked up.

We'd need to beat the Bears and Packers, unless we win by 15+ against the Jets.

[ElectricEye]

**** it, let's win'em all.

[Jvig43]

Haha I like your thinking, but descendency we want the steelers to beat the Jets, it gives us a little more wiggle room for the division and we already be the steelers so even if we have the same record we'll get first place. Although I'd rather the steelers win the division then the Ravens.

[ElectricEye]

Why does the game have to be 7 days away? Jfhrkejgeoughi4riolkj.m

[Jvig43]

I am so pumped to go to this game. It's going to be freezing. I hope it turns into a snow bowl. That'd be awesome.

[ElectricEye]

I would love the see Rex Ryan jowls freeze.

[Jvig43]

Cold weather should favor us since sanchez is a california kid.

[descendency]

Haha I like your thinking, but descendency we want the steelers to beat the Jets, it gives us a little more wiggle room for the division and we already be the steelers so even if we have the same record we'll get first place. Although I'd rather the steelers win the division then the Ravens.

If we win by 15+, the Steelers are closer than the Jets.

If we win by less than 14, then the Jets are closer.

edit: Whoever wins the division, will have Home field advantage. Book it.

And basically whoever wins Monday Night will win the division.

[Don Vito]

Yeah this is the biggest game of our year, it will be a real statement game. I can't stand the Jets especially Rex Ryan. I can't remember the last time I've been this amped for a Pats game, I really want this one. As descendency said the winner of this probably wins the division, and we don't want the wild card this year we want the division. Home field advantage should be our goal and it is certainly within reach right now.

[ElectricEye]

Weather forecast says snow game. ****. Yes.

[Jvig43]

Yesssss, I can't wait. I love snow bowls, this will be the first one I'm in attendance for to. I'm ******* pumped.

[ElectricEye]

They're showing the Cromartie interception on the Moss deep ball a lot today. More I watch it, more it looks like Moss really did not give a lot of effort on that play. Moss running full blast might catch that ball, or at least prevent Cro from catching that.

Cromartie is actually a key matchup for us this week. Whoever Revis is on we can pretty much forget about because we won't be hearing from them. However, if we can get Welker or Branch, hopefully Welker, matched up on Cromartie, we could do quite well actually as he doesn't cover that type of receiver that well.

[Jvig43]

Thats not true at all, Revis has not been the shut down corner her was last year. Not even close.

[ElectricEye]

That may be true, but Branch and Welker are a very easy matchup for him in man coverage. Won't see them do major damage vertically like against Alphonso Smith. The numbers for the Jets against teams 1 and 2 targets are pretty solid anyway. It's the slot guys and the tight ends who tend to damage them lately.

[FlyingElvis]

Revis & Cro have become a pretty fearsome corner duo. Revis can stop anyone, but I agree Cro would have trouble with guys like Welker. Double move him to death . . . that's the way to go.

We will need big production out of our TEs this week.

[ElectricEye]

Our offensive line better come to play too, since you know the Jets are bringing the house. Hopefully Woody can exploit some of that with draws and screens. Say it every week and it's usually true, but especially this time, he could have a real good game.

[Jvig43]

Revis & Cro have become a pretty fearsome corner duo. Revis can stop anyone, but I agree Cro would have trouble with guys like Welker. Double move him to death . . . that's the way to go.

We will need big production out of our TEs this week.

Yeah the TEs need to step up, hopefully we can pound the ball and get our TEs open out of three TE sets, make Cro and Revis useless.

[ElectricEye]

Hopefully Hernandez is focused because we need him this week and can't let what happened in the first game against them happen again.

Also; who do we put on Santonio Holmes? That troubles me. McCourty will probably just stay on one side of the field because we need to contain both Holmes and Edwards. He matches up pretty good on the both of them, especially Edwards(Really seems to excel against tall straight line vertical guys), but we only have one corner worth a damn :(

[Jvig43]

I'm assuming we'll have Chung on Keller, last time we got to Sanchez a handful of times, lets hope our team recalls how to tackle unlike the bs Snachez has been *hit* by the last few weeks. If we can pressure Sanchez hes only throwing to a RB out of the backfield or someone doing a five yard in.

[ElectricEye]

Yup, gotta wrap on Sanchez because he's a real good escape artist.

[FlyingElvis]

The screen game should be huge. TE & RB, actually.


I lean toward a CB with the Raiders pick more and more each week. Hopefully the way McCourty is playing is enough to make BB realize CB is a huge need with the proliferation of passing in the NFL. 3rd and 4th round CBs just don't cut it anymore. It's probably more a function of talent being snapped up faster in recent years than it was a decade ago, but the later round guys just aren't able to get the job done.

[Jvig43]

I see a Danny Woodhead " F You" TD run in this game.

[ElectricEye]

The screen game should be huge. TE & RB, actually.


I lean toward a CB with the Raiders pick more and more each week. Hopefully the way McCourty is playing is enough to make BB realize CB is a huge need with the proliferation of passing in the NFL. 3rd and 4th round CBs just don't cut it anymore. It's probably more a function of talent being snapped up faster in recent years than it was a decade ago, but the later round guys just aren't able to get the job done.

If Prince or PP is there, sure. Otherwise, give me a receiver and a defensive end in the first round later. We would be absolutely set with Peterson or Amukamara though. We could build around a secondary like that.


I see a Danny Woodhead " F You" TD run in this game.

Would be nice. It's a good thing they cut him because he really belongs here on the Patriots. Not often I feel that way about a player "belonging" somewhere outside of major guys like quarterbacks and stuff, but Woodhead is such a good fit here.

[Razor]

The screen game should be huge. TE & RB, actually.


I lean toward a CB with the Raiders pick more and more each week. Hopefully the way McCourty is playing is enough to make BB realize CB is a huge need with the proliferation of passing in the NFL. 3rd and 4th round CBs just don't cut it anymore. It's probably more a function of talent being snapped up faster in recent years than it was a decade ago, but the later round guys just aren't able to get the job done.

I think our secondary is playing at as high a level as it is possible right now considering the lack of pass rush. A stud pass rusher would make this secondary look close to elite, especially if Bodden comes back playing like he did last year. Would I be complete opposed to take PP or Amu? Of course not, their talent is obvious. But I think their effect would be less that of a quality OLB.

[ElectricEye]

If it comes down to Robert Quinn or Peterson/Amu....I doubt I would care either way :) Let's go Raiders! Just lose baby.

[Nalej]

I'm on the side of a pass rusher is needed more than a CB
Again, if Dareus and Quinn are gone and PP is on the board- **** it
Grab an A.Smith/Kerrigan/Beal in the late 1st, early second and I'd be content
WR only if its Jones/Green/Baldwin (late 1st/2nd)/Floyd. Not really interested in any other ones as of right now


I've noticed that BB is slowly playing Butler more and more each week.
Hopefully, he regains his #2 CB position. If he can save us from drafting a CB then our team will be that much better post-draft

As for the Jets, I think we'll handle their D a bit better with Mankins now back and the jets not knowing who to stop in the passing game
I don't see us losing this. Especially since they won the last game- I don't remember the last time we were swept by a division rival, ever

[nepg]

My position on the Pats drafting a CB is that if Peterson or Prince is there, sure. Otherwise, the Pats are going to be pairing McCourtey opposite Leigh Bodden next year (can you imagine a team bothering to attempt a pass to an outside receiver?) with Butler, Arrington, and Wilhite all developing fairly significantly (well, at least Arrington and Butler). Do the Pats really need Bodden, McCourtey, Arrington, Butler, Wilhite, and a first/second round CB? Seems like someone good would be out of a job.

Likewise for defensive line. Mike Wright has played at a Pro Bowl level. As has Wilfork. Gerrard Warren and the young guys (Pryor, Brace, Deaderick, Love) have all played very well. Put Ty Warren back in that mix... Are you kidding me?! Sure, Marcel Dareus would be beastly, but anyone else seems slightly wasteful.

Julio Jones is the WR I want for the Pats. He can operate within the current framework of the offense, which I think is important. It's like having a bigger, faster, stronger Deion Branch.

I think everyone wants Ryan Kerrigan. He's our Clay Matthews of 2011. Though I think Von Miller is more like Matthews than Kerrigan...which could be cool, too. I think Miller has a lot of potential in the Patriots defense to move around and kind of be like Mike Vrabel. Knowing this...I still want Kerrigan more for some reason...probably because I'm obsessed with making sure his nickname is Prince of Blades (which is ******* awesome - don't deny it).

Offensive tackle is a huge deal - as is center. Tough call on whether to draft an OT in the first, but Castonzo could be beastly in that offensive scheme. I like O'Dowd and Wis, but I can't see Belichick drafting a USC or Penn State player...which is why I'm thinking we might see Mike Pouncey pop up as an option at center for the Pats. His snapping problems haven't been an issue since the beginning of the season (when it was somewhat understandable), and he's obviously the most talented interior OL available.

I have a gut (don't punch it!) feeling Mankins will stay long-term. I think the general atmosphere around here and New England in-general is that he's not going anywhere. amirite?

Only thing left to talk about much is probably runningback. Leshoure for sure (yeah, rhyme).

[descendency]

Brandon Harris is now ahead of Prince Amukamara for me. I'd take any of the three in the top 10 baring Marcel Dareus available.

I've upgraded Ryan Kerrigan (after getting some time to watch a purdue game :P) to my #1 OLB prospect. I just like him against the run more than Quinn now. Justin Houston has fallen to 3rd due to some lax effort in a few of his games.

---

Oh and if you are wondering "can we really beat the Jets by 15+?" The last 3 "revenge" games (divisional games that we lost the earlier game) we won by scores of 31, 20, and 17. We really need a good showing from the defense in this game but I think this could be what propels the Patriots to true front runners in the AFC.

---

edit: Mike Pouncey is not an NFL center. He definitely needs to play guard.

[AntoinCD]

I would actually be against a CB in the first to be honest. McCourty has the left side locked down and Bodden should come back and have the right side again. Arrington and Butler are both predominantly guys who will play on the outside as well with only Wilhite as our inside guy. Bringing in PP or Amukamara would just add another body out wide which would see either Arrington or Butler let go. I would prefer Harris if he dropped to the end of the first becuase he can play both outside and inside the hashes. I see Butler as a guy with a lot of potential and Arrington is not only very solid as a back up but also offers loads on special teams. If any CB was to be let go i'd prefer it to be Wilhite. We know what we have there and it's not special.

As for the draft I see a few things.

I think they go BPA with the Raiders pick. Assuming it's within the 10-18 range, realistically some players who may be available would be

AJ Green
Julio Jones
Marcel Dareus
Brandon Harris
Prince Amukamara
Robert Quinn
Mark Ingram
Ryan Kerrigan

If it's between those players I think it would be between Julio Jones and Marcel Dareus. Green is the better overall prospect at WR but Jones fits the system a whole lot better. Dareus is a potential difference maker on all three downs at DE and would give a bit of flexibility roster wise. We wouldn't need to carry that extra defensive lineman with him there. Plus we also get Ty Warren back. Our rotation there could be Ty Warren, V Weezy and Dareus starting with Mike Wright, Myron Pryor, Ron Brace and Brandon Deaderick spelling them.

[AntoinCD]

Through doing a mock draft of my own and looking at a few others on this site I was thinking about the possiblility of going DE in the first round(I commented a bit on one of the mocks about this). A lot of people have pretty much anyone from Dareus to Clayborn to Heyward to Jordan etc going to the Pats. It got me thinking about what does BB look for in his defensive linemen. To the casual observer a 5 tech is still a tweener. Someone who's too big and slow to play defensive end and too small to play defensive tackle. But is that how the Pats front office view it?

Look at the current players on our roster who have played defensive end at some stage this year;

Vince Wilfork, Gerard Warren, Ron Brace, Brandon Deaderick, Myron Pryor, Mike Wright, Kyle Love. Not to mention Ty Warren who is out this year. Only one of those players(Mike Wright) is under 300lbs and he is a situational pass rusher who isn't overly stout at the point of attack.

When you look at BB's prototype for the position(Richard Seymour) you see further evidence for this. He was 6'6 310lbs.

This leads me to believe that quite a lot of the proposed 5 techs in the draft will not be valued in the first by the Pats. Players like Clayborn and Jordan both in and around 6'4 285lbs. This is too small IMO to be an effective 3 down player in the Pats system and may rule them out all together. However players like JJ Watt, Jared Crick and Cameron Heyward are all 6'6 and between 285-295lbs. Those extra two inches allow them to add more weight without losing much effectiveness and the added length is a bonus.

I think the list of potential DEs drafted in the first/early second by the Pats is down to

Dareus
Heyward
Watt
Ballard
Crick

I would be surprised looking at BB's past history of drafting and the way the current roster is constructed if they went any other way at the position.

Since the 2005 draft the Pats have drafted only one defensive lineman(not DEs to play LB) who was under 300lbs. That was Kareem Brown in 2007 who played a whopping 0 games for the Patriots

[FlyingElvis]

Great points on the DE's.

Both positions (DE & CB) seem to have a similar tone: We have solid options / depth and aren't really hurting for players there but a true stud would make our D amazing. I think it's a bit too hopeful to expect Bodden to come back from injury and be great. We all liked him as a system guy with good ball skills but I don't think anyone will argue the difference between Bodden a kid like McCourty is vast.

I have no problem drafting a top CB, cutting Wilhite and rolling into 2011 with McCourty / Bodden / RookieCB / Butler / Arrington. Force Bodden to be a balla' or a backup and give Butler more room to grow w/o turning to toast on the field.

[Don Vito]

Yeah we have our true stud I think in McCourty at CB, but now we need our next game changer at DE and OLB. Dareus, Heyward, Fairley, and possibly a few others have the potential to be that kind of player in my opinion. Allen Bailey should be available early round 2 as of now, but he should do very well in workouts and may find his way well into the first. At OLB, Ryan Kerrigan is the guy for us in my opinion. Great fit, talented, high motor, and a pretty complete player from a school with a good pedigree at the position.

It would be hard to pass on Patrick Peterson or Prince, but I think if one of the top DE's or OLB's are available with the Raider pick then we have to take them. Can't see either of the top corners falling to our pick, so there we take which ever we didn't take out of DE and OLB with the Raiders pick or OL, maybe WR or RB but that isn't really what I'd prefer. Then we have Carolina's pick early in the second that can get BPA for one of those need positions.

[ryno626]

Just wanted to share a quick story with you guys, thought you'd get a kick out of it. I was watching the game on thursday with my family and the camera panned to Bill real quick, he was of course rocking the sweater with the cut off sleeves. my sister said "‎I was going to buy you a Patriots hoodie for christmas but I don't want to spend forty dollars on one just to have you cut the sleeves off." We all had a good laugh

Go Pats!

[descendency]

Dareus is 6'2.6". He might not fit what Belichick wants in a 34 DE.

[ElectricEye]

Drafting a top five talent at corner would just be too hard to pass up. We've already got one side covered up pretty good, cover the other and the entire defense becomes easier to build. It's a passing league these days, gotta remember that.

[Jvig43]

Drafting a top five talent at corner would just be too hard to pass up. We've already got one side covered up pretty good, cover the other and the entire defense becomes easier to build. It's a passing league these days, gotta remember that.

Hows this working out for the Jets right now haha.

[ElectricEye]

Hows this working out for the Jets right now haha.

Pretty well, all things considering. Allows them to blitz a ton more than we do.

[Jvig43]

Pretty well, all things considering. Allows them to blitz a ton more than we do.

Kyle wilson hasnt really been what they were hoping for, and they can blitz because of their D-line and Linebackers plus Revis & Cro. Whens the last time BB picked in the 1st the same position two years in a row? I just don't see us doing it.

[ElectricEye]

Kyle wilson hasnt really been what they were hoping for, and they can blitz because of their D-line and Linebackers plus Revis & Cro. Whens the last time BB picked in the 1st the same position two years in a row? I just don't see us doing it.

Sedrick Ellis, Sione Pouha, Mike Devito
Bryan Thomas, Bart Scott, Davis Harris, Calvin Pace

Not really scary. Those guys can be aggressive because of the corners, which you even included. Wilson is a work in project, but locking down the down field threats allows them to stack the box.

I would be against drafting a corner in any sane situation to, but we're looking at Patrick Peterson and Amu here, two RARE guys. How often do you see corners worthy of going top five? Overdrafted, sure, but worthy of it? Not often. Two in this years draft and we might have a shot at one. I'm ok getting a guy who could be as good as Nnamdi is a few years and have another potential star playing opposite them. Doesn't hurt that we can get Kerrigan, or maybe even Robert Quinn, in the same round.

[Jvig43]

I suppose, but where are you expecting Oaklands pick to be tho, right now it looks like it could be right around 18-20.

[ElectricEye]

I suppose, but where are you expecting Oaklands pick to be tho, right now it looks like it could be right around 18-20.

I can honestly see them winning only one more game, might even lose them all. Gradkowski is out for the season in all likelihood and McFadden is wearing down.

Chargers-Loss
Jacksonville- Jags will be playing for a division title, Oakland is basically out of it with a Chargers loss
Denver-Probably a win
Indy-Playing for the playoffs
Kansas City-Playing for position/fending off Chargers

That would likely be a top fifteen pick, somewhere in the 10-13 range.

[nepg]

The Jets blitz because that's what they do. The Patriots don't because that's not what they do. It really doesn't have to anything to do with the players they have. Completely different styles.

The Jets play an aggressive style and the Patriots play it safe.

[ElectricEye]

The Jets blitz because that's what they do. The Patriots don't because that's not what they do. It really doesn't have to anything to do with the players they have. Completely different styles.

The Jets play an aggressive style and the Patriots play it safe.

While this is true, I think the personal still holds us back schematically.

[AntoinCD]

Sedrick Ellis, Sione Pouha, Mike Devito
Bryan Thomas, Bart Scott, Davis Harris, Calvin Pace

Not really scary. Those guys can be aggressive because of the corners, which you even included. Wilson is a work in project, but locking down the down field threats allows them to stack the box.

I would be against drafting a corner in any sane situation to, but we're looking at Patrick Peterson and Amu here, two RARE guys. How often do you see corners worthy of going top five? Overdrafted, sure, but worthy of it? Not often. Two in this years draft and we might have a shot at one. I'm ok getting a guy who could be as good as Nnamdi is a few years and have another potential star playing opposite them. Doesn't hurt that we can get Kerrigan, or maybe even Robert Quinn, in the same round.

It would be a lot scarier if it Sederick Ellis and not Shaun Ellis lol but I get where you're coming from. The Jets don't have 4 players they can count on to create enough pressure so they bring more. Remember they had a pretty good defense last year with Revis and no one else in that secondary. The Jets blitz because Rex Ryan can create packages which are tough to stop. If he could drop more into coverage and create the same pressure then he would

[Don Vito]

I really am warming to the idea of Patrick Peterson or Prince, but I also want a first or second round DE and a first or second round OLB if we get those and they pan out then our defense would be ridiculously good combined with the pieces we already have /runonsentence

[AntoinCD]

I really am warming to the idea of Patrick Peterson or Prince, but I also want a first or second round DE and a first or second round OLB if we get those and they pan out then our defense would be ridiculously good combined with the pieces we already have /runonsentence

Based on BPA if they went PP/Prince, Justin Houstin, Derek Sherrod and JJ Watt I could cry tears of joy but I also would not be against Julio Jones, Christian Ballard, Jeremy Beal and Gabe Carimi for example. If we go CB in the first I think the value needs to be tremendous because it would be somewhat of a luxury pick

[descendency]

If we are somehow in the race for Patrick Peterson (everyone below Oakland wins 3 games while Oakland basically loses out), I would love to see him in a Patriots uniform, but I think we might be better off trading down and recouping the extra value for a position of bigger need.

[Jvig43]

If we are somehow in the race for Patrick Peterson (everyone below Oakland wins 3 games while Oakland basically loses out), I would love to see him in a Patriots uniform, but I think we might be better off trading down and recouping the extra value for a position of bigger need.

This is certainly the most likely scenario.

[AntoinCD]

This is certainly the most likely scenario.

The Patriots trading down in the draft to recoup value is the most likely scenario??? What exactly are you basing this on??? Lol ;)

[FlyingElvis]

Based on BPA if they went PP/Prince, Justin Houstin, Derek Sherrod and JJ Watt I could cry tears of joy but I also would not be against Julio Jones, Christian Ballard, Jeremy Beal and Gabe Carimi for example. If we go CB in the first I think the value needs to be tremendous because it would be somewhat of a luxury pick

Heading into the 2010 draft most of us agreed that CB really wasn't a big need. And I agree that the situation is similar heading into the 2011 draft. CB would be a luxury pick even if I don't necessarily believe such a thing exists (unless you're the Bills taking a RB w/Lynch and Freddy on the roster and major holes everwhere else, but that's a different discussion.)

Now that we have a CB who looks to be a game changer all I can think about is how much better we would be with 2. It's just that simple. With the league moving towards a pass happy, spread offense style, having two lock down CBs would make even a mediocre pass rush look good. With solid coverage LBs and excellent safeties we would have a seriously dangerous D.

I liked McCourty for us even though I thought it was a position we didn't really need to address. Now that I've seen him in action it reminds me why I was so bummed out when we allowed Assante to walk. Moar plz.


Also, please no trading down. The wheels have fallen off in Oakland. We should still be looking at #15 at worst. Use it. Take a stud talent. CB / DE / OLB / WR - each has a blue chipper or two so we should absolutely have the opportunity to take a stud. NO ******* TRADING DOWN! Moving down from our 32 spot (**** yeah!) is fine, but take a stud early.

[BradysKnee]

Without a doubt we trade down from Oaklands pick. Probably will end up trading our 2nd for another 2 next year as well.

[Don Vito]

Without a doubt we trade down from Oaklands pick. Probably will end up trading our 2nd for another 2 next year as well.

Come on don't say things like that. We all know it will happen, but can we just pretend it won't?

[ElectricEye]

Not going to think about trading down. That would be a nut shot.

Also; for the sake of getting even more Jets hatred flowing

http://backseatcuddler.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/mark-sanchez-gq-photos-6.jpg

[FlyingElvis]

you asshat. now I have to go bleach my eyeballs.

[ElectricEye]

Rob and Rexy on the beach? Rob and Rexy on the beach.

http://jockpost.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/rob-and-rex-ryan-on-the-beach.jpg

[FlyingElvis]

the man has a beer in hand, so I'm ok with it.

[Don Vito]

Yeah I can deal with Rob. **** Rex.

[FlyingElvis]

hahahaha . . . here's one I hadn't heard:

http://joebryant.tumblr.com/post/2066767304/jets-coach-rex-ryan-was-funny-this-week-saying-he

[ElectricEye]

That was a funny one. Presser for that was great.

[Jvig43]

EE what the hell man, why are you posting those pics. Im scarred for life.

[FlyingElvis]

Honestly, I absolutely love Rex. He's the best thing that could happen to Pats fans & our hate for NYJ. It's like a giant focal point for all the hatred. He's perfect for it.

[ElectricEye]

Honestly, I absolutely love Rex. He's the best thing that could happen to Pats fans & our hate for NYJ. It's like a giant focal point for all the hatred. He's perfect for it.

Certainly makes great theater.

[Razor]

I can't wait for MNF! I don't have any classes on tuesday so if we win I'm going to celebrate and get drunk. if we lose I'll drink away my sorrow. Either way, I win! Never the less, I'm not mentally prepared to lose this game. F the Jets!

http://www.takeyourskirtofftombrady.com/WEB%20Images/jabbatheryanandsanchez.jpg

[ElectricEye]

http://cdn.tauntr.com/sites/default/files/RexRyanKills.jpg

[Wootylicous]

I loved the McCourty pick since day one. This guy was gonna be a stud. Right now he is proving me right I absolutely loveeeeeeeeeee him.

[Don Vito]

I'm not going to lie I was pretty pissed at first. Not because I didn't like McCourty, I just couldn't believe we actually took a corner in the first. He certainly caught my eye at the combine but truthfully I didn't know too much about him before the combine. When I was clued in to what McCourty was all about and how he played I warmed up to the pick and went into 'in BB we trust mode'. Now McCourty is one of my favorite players on the team already.

[Jvig43]

Yeah I overreacted because we passe don Kindle twice (looking like a good choice). Theres a reason we all stick to the "In BB we trust" slogan. This draft was money for us.

[nepg]

I'm not going to lie I was pretty pissed at first. Not because I didn't like McCourty, I just couldn't believe we actually took a corner in the first. He certainly caught my eye at the combine but truthfully I didn't know too much about him before the combine. When I was clued in to what McCourty was all about and how he played I warmed up to the pick and went into 'in BB we trust mode'. Now McCourty is one of my favorite players on the team already.

My reaction at the time was that I was just glad they didn't draft Tebow. DB seemed like an odd choice because I didn't think they'd consider that position at that point in the draft, but I quickly came to like the pick...then Bodden got injured, and...it's amazing how that worked out.

Though I've started to come around on Tebow lately...

[ElectricEye]

Loved the pick all along. Helped some guy mock him to us, even.