New England Patriots Discussion

[ElectricEye]

Thank god for bridges, because if we lose this game I'm jumping off one :)

[FlyingElvis]

Were the unthinkable to happen, I'd honor Sexy Rexy and kill myself by stuffing all the Mr. Potato Head feet in my house down my throat.

[proshoota25]

lets just say if we lose this game, ill be even more obsessed with the draft this year than i normally am lol

[ElectricEye]

Were the unthinkable to happen, I'd honor Sexy Rexy and kill myself by stuffing all the Mr. Potato Head feet in my house down my throat.

Now that's a goddamn snack.

[Nalej]

If we lose... I'm ending my phone, cable and internet service until draft time then again until the beginning of the season...

...but we won't so I'm done talking about it :)

[ElectricEye]

Atiyyah Ellison cut after like three days. Brandon Spikes officially back to the roster.

[FlyingElvis]

lol @ my brother blowing up my phone about Aso.

There's just no way in hell we shell out the money he'd want for a 30 year old CB to play zone for us.

I'd love it as much as anyone, but I would be completely floored if we were even in the discussion, let alone actually landed him.

[proshoota25]

lol @ my brother blowing up my phone about Aso.

There's just no way in hell we shell out the money he'd want for a 30 year old CB to play zone for us.

I'd love it as much as anyone, but I would be completely floored if we were even in the discussion, let alone actually landed him.

yeah its not gunna happen lol

[ElectricEye]

Yeah, that's not going to happen. I love to think of it, but I just can't see it happening. Fitzgerald is somewhat realistic, but Aso is just unlikely as hell. I suppose anything is possible and he likely becomes an excellent safety after his speed leaves him.

[FlyingElvis]

Yeah, that's not going to happen. I love to think of it, but I just can't see it happening. Fitzgerald is somewhat realistic, but Aso is just unlikely as hell. I suppose anything is likely he becomes an excellent safety after his speed leaves him.

I would much rather go after Fitz, even if it costs a pick or two. He's really the difference maker our offense needs at WR. And his talent / pricetag combo wouldn't be an outrageous waste based on system.

[proshoota25]

ultimate orgasmic situation...... sign ngata and trade up for robert quinn <333

neither of which will happen lol

[ElectricEye]

Ngata is a free agent? I didn't realize that. Hard to imagine him not being tagged. If he does hit the open market, 5/70+ will likely be the cost. That might be worth it too to have a historically good defensive line.


Apparently Tamba Hali is a free agent too. If he doesn't get tagged, we should absolutely pounce on him. Fantastic player and a perfect scheme fit.

[proshoota25]

Ngata is a free agent? I didn't realize that. Hard to imagine him not being tagged.


Apparently Tamba Hali is a free agent too. If he doesn't get tagged, we should absolutely pounce on him. Fantastic player and a perfect scheme fit.

he is, but its known he wants to resign in KC

[ElectricEye]

I don't think you could overpay for either of those guys. We'll have to see what the new CBA says, but there's more talent than I realized in free agency.

[Nalej]

I was under the impression that the "Franchise Tag" might not exist under the new CBA, or am I wrong?
If so, Ngata/Hali/Seymour/Aso/MANKIN would all be available

Gimme Ngata, Mankin and trade up for Quinn as Pro already dreamed :D

[ElectricEye]

It's the wild west. No one really knows. The players want the tag to be tossed out because it doesn't favor them in the slightest.

But **** free agency right now. We're more than still in this.

[Nalej]

It's the wild west. No one really knows. The players want the tag to be tossed out because it doesn't favor them in the slightest.

But **** free agency right now. We're more than still in this.

You must spread some Reputation around before giving it to ElectricEye again

TRUE ******* THAT!!!
IM HOPING FOR BACK TO BACK PICKS AT THE END OF THE 1ST :)

[Jvig43]

Seriously what EE just said. Lets save this talk for those limbo months of no football and waiting for a new deal so we have things to discuss.

As for this week, let the circus begin.

[FlyingElvis]

I just wish they'd update the Goddam Snack game to include some feet that distract Rex.

[FlyingElvis]

Now that's a goddamn snack.

btw . . .

"You must spread some Reputation around before giving it to ElectricEye again."

[Jvig43]

I showed my friends the snack game and I think they added in a pig you could eat. I hadn't seen that before while playing so maybe the feet joke will come along soon.

[FlyingElvis]

lol

I haven't played in a few weeks so I'll have to see what's new. It's a good week for getting Rexy's snack time in . . .

[ElectricEye]

Feet in Goddamn Snack Time would be amazing. But ANYWAY!

I really think we're going to see a more prepared Jets team defensively this week. The things they were doing the first two games they sort of have to toss out and so do we a bit. We have the advantage of facing an offense that with any luck, will be pretty vanilla. We still have to stop the run and that's no easy task, but it took the Jets a very long time to get into rhythm playcalling wise against the Colts. If that happens against us, they're likely down two touchdowns and some change.

We absolutely need to have our playmakers on offense ready to go. It's always going to be tough to run on New York and I doubt they'll be daring us to do it like they were against the Colts. Branch, Welker, and Woodhead should be plenty rested and healthy. We're going to need big contributions from all of them. Hernandez is someone we should have ready to go too after missing some time down the stretch. He was a match up problem for them in both games. Killed us in the fourth quarter with the drops, but he got easy separation all game long in that one. In the second game, he barely played but when he was in the ball went to him and he was usually wide open.

Defensively, we need more from Wilfork than ever.
http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/7408/wilfork.jpg

This is what I hope the big guy has been doing all week. Needs to have his legs under him and be ready to play another 70+ snaps if we need him too. Usually the thing about DT's is that after they make they're money, they get fat and stop trying. I guess the secret is to find a guy who is fat in the first place because Wilfork has given us everything he's had this year. Mangold and Wilfork is one of the key matchups of the game, but we'll likely only see him on him 50% of the plays on defense.

For the finesse pieces on defense, we need to do just what we did with Sanchez in the second game. Keep him guessing and continue bringing different looks. Bring guys from the second level, put them in places they're not supposed to be...and catch some of the misses. One of the few guys who has really taken it to McCourty a bit was Braylon Edwards. Not that he got pushed around and blown around, but he did have some issues at times. Not on the stat sheet so much, but Braylon beat him a few times which is more than most can say. We can't cover the guy opposite McCourty, we we need to win that battle. Arrington is actually a pretty good guy to put on Holmes in terms of containing him. Most of his gains come from making guys miss and Arrington tackles very well and keeps things in front of him. Might give up some catches, but as long as he plays solid coverage and keep them from becoming big gains, we should be alright there.

Keller is the guy I'm not comfortable with. Ninkovich plays good man coverage on the tight ends, but is inconsistent and not on the field the entire time. Fletcher is really good in coverage, but he's more of a zone guy. The way they use Keller sort of takes that away. You need a guy to get up at the line and jam him then stay with him throughout the course of the play. If there's any sort of break down in blocking or coverage, Sanchez won't hesitate to take the intermediate yards which could turn into even bigger gains if we don't tackle well with Keller's fantastic speed.

Overall, I feel pretty good, but this is playoff football boys. We're not going to slaughter them like we did last time.

[Jvig43]

Feet in Goddamn Snack Time would be amazing. But ANYWAY!

I really think we're going to see a more prepared Jets team defensively this week. The things they were doing the first two games they sort of have to toss out and so do we a bit. We have the advantage of facing an offense that with any luck, will be pretty vanilla. We still have to stop the run and that's no easy task, but it took the Jets a very long time to get into rhythm playcalling wise against the Colts. If that happens against us, they're likely down two touchdowns and some change.

We absolutely need to have our playmakers on offense ready to go. It's always going to be tough to run on New York and I doubt they'll be daring us to do it like they were against the Colts. Branch, Welker, and Woodhead should be plenty rested and healthy. We're going to need big contributions from all of them. Hernandez is someone we should have ready to go too after missing some time down the stretch. He was a match up problem for them in both games. Killed us in the fourth quarter with the drops, but he got easy separation all game long in that one. In the second game, he barely played but when he was in the ball went to him and he was usually wide open.

Hernandez is going to be key, I'm guessing that with Gronks recent play Rex is going to focus alot on him. Hernandez needs to step up and be clutch for us unlike that first game against the Jets/Ravens where he was dropping easy passes. We ran the ball on the Jets pretty well and the Cots did too, if we can get the running game going we win this game.

Defensively, we need more from Wilfork than ever.
http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/7408/wilfork.jpg

This is what I hope the big guy has been doing all week. Needs to have his legs under him and be ready to play another 70+ snaps if we need him too. Usually the thing about DT's is that after they make they're money, they get fat and stop trying. I guess the secret is to find a guy who is fat in the first place because Wilfork has given us everything he's had this year. Mangold and Wilfork is one of the key matchups of the game, but we'll likely only see him on him 50% of the plays on defense.

If we see Wilfork at DT, I hate when we have to put him at end. Pray to god everyone stays healthy this game on Dline, I will cry if we lose someone else.

For the finesse pieces on defense, we need to do just what we did with Sanchez in the second game. Keep him guessing and continue bringing different looks. Bring guys from the second level, put them in places they're not supposed to be...and catch some of the misses. One of the few guys who has really taken it to McCourty a bit was Braylon Edwards. Not that he got pushed around and blown around, but he did have some issues at times. Not on the stat sheet so much, but Braylon beat him a few times which is more than most can say. We can't cover the guy opposite McCourty, we we need to win that battle. Arrington is actually a pretty good guy to put on Holmes in terms of containing him. Most of his gains come from making guys miss and Arrington tackles very well and keeps things in front of him. Might give up some catches, but as long as he plays solid coverage and keep them from becoming big gains, we should be alright there.

McCourty actually did a really good job on Edwards last time we played them, I dont remember stats but I'm pretty sure he did next to nothing. Arrington on Holmes is a matchup I'd be more worried about, Arrington is a guy I like, he plays the position like hes supposed to no letting anyone get behind him, tackles pretty well. Thankfully, the Jets gameplan has a lot of short passes to warm Sanchez up, stuff out of the backfield, Holmes a ten yard in etc... He also over threw every pass last game by a good five yards that wasn't a short yard gain. Hopefully we can take advantage of that.

Keller is the guy I'm not comfortable with. Ninkovich plays good man coverage on the tight ends, but is inconsistent and not on the field the entire time. Fletcher is really good in coverage, but he's more of a zone guy. The way they use Keller sort of takes that away. You need a guy to get up at the line and jam him then stay with him throughout the course of the play. If there's any sort of break down in blocking or coverage, Sanchez won't hesitate to take the intermediate yards which could turn into even bigger gains if we don't tackle well with Keller's fantastic speed.

Guyton on Keller maybe? Ive been very impressed with him since Spikes suspension, hopefully his play stays the same. We also need to hope good Merriweather shows up. That would be very beneficial.

Overall, I feel pretty good, but this is playoff football boys. We're not going to slaughter them like we did last time.

Good post EE, some of my thoughts on what you said in bold.

[Nalej]

I wouldn't be surprised to see alot of Chung on Keller. Dude plays the Harrison role to the T

[Jvig43]

To be sort of critical, I don't think Chung is all that great in coverage.

[nepg]

On Keller, I expect to see Jarrad Page involved in the gameplan. Belichick likes to give the specialized stuff to Page and use the other safeties for more big-picture roles. A bit like McGowan last year.

[Jvig43]

Whats the wor don McGowan, how long is he with us? I was a pretty big fan of his play last year.

[ElectricEye]

He's hurt. Think he's under contract for next year. With the way teams pass these days, the more quality defensive backs you have the better. James Sanders has proved that depth is never a bad thing to have at safety.

Page is interesting to bring up. We could see some of that. Agree about Chung being lost in man coverage. Hasn't gotten any better since being smoked in the Senior Bowl. He competes, but it's not a natural thing for him.

[Jvig43]

It's pretty awesome how deep our safety unit is. Even Page has done a pretty good job this year with his role.

[Nalej]

I'm not saying Chung is going to get his own island any time soon but I think he does a decent job on opposing TE's

[ElectricEye]

I'm more comfortable with him playing zone in the flats and coming up in run support. He's also not bad deep, but he doesn't have the speed or fluid hips to turn and run with guys.

[proshoota25]

cunningham wasnt spotted at practice today.... looking like he will be out :(

also, myron pryor wasnt spotted either

[luckyjackaubrey]

Pepper Johnson looks like he could still play a bit. I bet he has put on enough LBs to play a few snaps at RE this Sunday. We may have no choice.

[Jvig43]

This is really not the time to be losing our already diminished front seven. Jets are going to come out pounding the ball at us. They'd be stupid not to.

[nepg]

The key will be the Patriots' ability to use their offense to force the Jets to throw the ball. They did that in the last game. I don't think they'll have trouble doing it, but I'm not planning on anything until the game is happening.

[ElectricEye]

I don't think Cunningham not being at practice means he won't play 100%. Could just be taking it light. Was the first practice of the week in pads. Might see him later in the week.

[nepg]

I agree. I think they're still just trying to get everyone healthy.

[ElectricEye]

He'll probably be a probable on game day. Looked fine against Miami in warm ups and on the field. Didn't look like he got hurt either. Heard nothing about some injury in practice acting up last week either. Think they're just being cautious.

[Nalej]

God, I hope so.

[ElectricEye]

The key will be the Patriots' ability to use their offense to force the Jets to throw the ball. They did that in the last game. I don't think they'll have trouble doing it, but I'm not planning on anything until the game is happening.

I agree. We've got to come out and grab the lead as soon as possible. They won't be able to just run us off the field like they were able to with the Colts, but the closer things are the more it favors them.

[proshoota25]

wish me luck guys, i gotta drive into boston for the celtics game tonight should be hell haha

[Nalej]

wish me luck guys, i gotta drive into boston for the celtics game tonight should be hell haha

Ouch! Better leave early as hell!
I hope you're good luck too... we need to win, damnit
I hate having the Heat have a better record than us

[Jvig43]

Seriously I woke up and have ever seen it snow so hard in my entire life in NE. It was a complete whiteout, in only a few hours we got over a foot of snow. Wish me luck going outside to shovel in a bit here haha.

[luckyjackaubrey]

Just read on PFW that Jets placed Woody on IR with a torn achilles. Nice to see the Colts did something for us.

[Don Vito]

Cromartie you ******* idiot. I hope he gets the Anthony Smith treatment from Brady, over under 2 TD's scored on Cromartie Sunday?

[Razor]

Just read on PFW that Jets placed Woody on IR with a torn achilles. Nice to see the Colts did something for us.

Ryan said he believes the Jets have the NFL's best backup offensive lineman in Rob Turner.

I lol'd....

Edit: Apparantly every player on the Jets roster is the best at what he does. Great stuff. Still lolling...

[luckyjackaubrey]

naleg actually posted the news first in the playoff thread. PFW said that Wayne Hunter would step in and start, he did play the last three games downthe stretch when Woody was banged up, and surrendered 4 sacks in those 3 games.

[Hurricanes25]

Cromartie you ******* idiot. I hope he gets the Anthony Smith treatment from Brady, over under 2 TD's scored on Cromartie Sunday?

Cro is just an ass.

naleg actually posted the news first in the playoff thread. PFW said that Wayne Hunter would step in and start, he did play the last three games downthe stretch when Woody was banged up, and surrendered 4 sacks in those 3 games.

Honestly, I'm not sure where they are getting those numbers from. The Jets only gave up 2 sacks as a team in the final 3 games.


Anyways, good luck on Sunday. It should be a good game.

[Don Vito]

Cro is just an ass.



Honestly, I'm not sure where they are getting those numbers from. The Jets only gave up 2 sacks as a team in the final 3 games.


Anyways, good luck on Sunday. It should be a good game.

It should be a good game, and I know you probably feel the same way about us, but the Jets have just given me so many reasons to hate them. I really don't know if I have ever felt this way about a team before. I don't like the Colts but I respect them, they win with class and lose with class. I don't like the Steelers, but I respect them. I neither like nor respect the Jets, I don't even know why I am saying this here but they have given me so many reasons to hate them. The **** talking is so annoying, and we get it they made the playoffs but holy hell we beat you 45-3 last time we played you. You may beat us this time, but why give us any locker room material. It's not just the players, most of it comes from that fat **** who coaches the team!

I know there are Jets fans like yourself who probably cringe every time one of these assholes opens their mouth, but I just can't stand it. All I have to say is the Jets need to win the Super Bowl this year for all of the **** they talk to be even somewhat justified. It isn't a headline here or there, it is a monumentally annoying amount.

[Jvig43]

Cromartie you ******* idiot. I hope he gets the Anthony Smith treatment from Brady, over under 2 TD's scored on Cromartie Sunday?

Haha you know their already drawing up trick plays right at his side. That Anthony smith talk was so funny, this kid who lived across the hall from me freshmen year was a Steelers fan who kept telling me the steelers were going to beat us. Man Smith got torched that game, hopefully Cro does as well.

[Nalej]

No doubt about it, I'm not a gambling man but if there was an over/under of 2TD's on Cro, I'd definitely put money down on the over
Tom Brady feeds off that ****... almost in a LBJ kind of way... ****'s hilarious

[nepg]

No doubt about it, I'm not a gambling man but if there was an over/under of 2TD's on Cro, I'd definitely put money down on the over
Tom Brady feeds off that ****... almost in a LBJ kind of way... ****'s hilarious
Delete your post, sir. You did not just compare Tom Brady to The Talents In South Beach...

[Nalej]

Delete your post, sir. You did not just compare Tom Brady to The Talents In South Beach...

For the record... I can't stand that mofo... I'm just saying...
Boo him... call him an asshole... and then they both fill up the stat sheet
I'M SORRY BUT THE POST WILL REMAIN!!!

Boston > Miami... in every single possible way you can think of

[AntoinCD]

I lol'd....

Edit: Apparantly every player on the Jets roster is the best at what he does. Great stuff. Still lolling...

Isn't Rob Turner the guy who said he wanted to break Brady's jaw at the start of the year. I really hope Gerard Warren breaks his ************* arm at the weekend

[FlyingElvis]

"In fact, Belichick's called me that," [Brady] said of the expletive Cromartie used to describe him. "My offensive coordinator calls me that. And I know they like me, so maybe (Cromartie) really likes me, too."

lmao . . . gotta love Brady.

[ElectricEye]

What exactly happened? We were without power due to the storm so I'm kind of cut off...anyone have a link explaining the situation?


Oh. Found it....oh boy. Way to be a **** when you can't cover anyone on our team since Moss left.


Cunningham practicing again, Pryor still missing.

[Babylon]

Anyone else feel the recent decisions by some guys to stay in school is directly hitting the Pats where it hurts. I had targeted these guys at one point or another and now they arent available: Michael Floyd, Jared Crick, Justin Blackmon, David DeCastro. Shouldnt they had cleared it with us first?

[Crickett]

It should be a good game, and I know you probably feel the same way about us, but the Jets have just given me so many reasons to hate them.

I don't really hate any team. I've been told that doesn't make me a real fan, but...... oh well I guess I'm not a real fan.

As for the trash talking..... I really don't pay any attention to it. I like Rex Ryan as a coach because because of his willingness to blitz frequently. My biggest disappointment of him so far was when the Jets went into the prevent at the end of the game against the Steelers. But, if my life depended on providing a Rex Ryan quote....... I'd probably be dead.

[ElectricEye]

Anyone else feel the recent decisions by some guys to stay in school is directly hitting the Pats where it hurts. I had targeted these guys at one point or another and now they arent available: Michael Floyd, Jared Crick, Justin Blackmon, David DeCastro. Shouldnt they had cleared it with us first?

It makes things harder, that's for sure. Before this class was looking pretty deep for us. Means we have to hit on Plan A instead of falling back to B and C now.

[luckyjackaubrey]

Pretty funny interview with Welker today. Several "feet" references....

[ElectricEye]

Pretty funny interview with Welker today. Several "feet" references....

More like 11. It was pretty much marvelous.

[Don Vito]

http://boston.3432.voxcdn.com/files/2011/01/jets-pats-ny-post.jpg

Posted that in the NFL forum but it needs to be here too.

[Jvig43]

Would of been better if Jen Sterger as Leia.

[ElectricEye]

Not terribly long away now. So much buildup....

[ElectricEye]

Hernandez says he's healthy and ready to go for Sunday. Good news. Pryor still missing practices, he's likely to be the only notable omission from the game on Sunday.

[Don Vito]

Yeah this buildup is killing me. Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too much back and forth between the teams this weak, I would not be able to handle losing to these assholes.

[Nalej]

I'm so excited... I really really really hope...
Our foot soldiers stay on their toes and really put their best foot forward when it counts :)

[ElectricEye]

Yeah this buildup is killing me. Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too much back and forth between the teams this weak, I would not be able to handle losing to these assholes.

I don't think we'll have to, but to be honest, this would be Giants level of hurt. Not as bad long term, but at the time it'll feel just as bad.

[Nalej]

I hung up on my girlfriend, almost faught some random people in Giant jerseys then sat in my room with all the shades down, lights off and cell phone off.
Worst day of my life.... 2007

[ElectricEye]

Pretty sure I threw some **** and yelled. I watched it at the same place I watched the 2006 AFC Championship game loss...that's not happening again obviously.

[Mr. Goosemahn]

Hey guys, quick question, is there any possibility that you release Leigh Bodden this offseason? Devin McCourty is now entrenched as the #1 CB, and I think Arrington and Butler could manage the next two spots.

Bodden is due 3.9 million dollars each season for the next three years, and that would be a lot of money to pay for a #3, or 4 CB.

So any chance he is released?

[ElectricEye]

Nah. Bodden will be our #2 corner next year. Arrington is an admirable depth player and should be a good nickel next year, but Butler is horrible. You're more likely to see him cut. Even if we keep those two, Bodden is an upgrade over both of those guys and won't be a 3 or a 4. That's a very manageable contract at only 3.9. He played a lot better than that last year.

[descendency]

Wilhite is on his way out.

[BradysKnee]

I hung up on my girlfriend, almost faught some random people in Giant jerseys then sat in my room with all the shades down, lights off and cell phone off.
Worst day of my life.... 2007

I hear ya man, I woke up like 5 times in the night wondering if it was some sick dream.

[Jvig43]

In 2007, I was with a girl six years older then I was with all of her friends of obviously didn't care much for football. I just got hammered and then we went back to her place and she did a good job keeping my mind off of it. I literally just blanked it out for so long. ******* helmet catch.

[ElectricEye]

Sunday, hurry the hell up. I'm sick of this crap.

[Nalej]

Hey guys, quick question, is there any possibility that you release Leigh Bodden this offseason? Devin McCourty is now entrenched as the #1 CB, and I think Arrington and Butler could manage the next two spots.

Bodden is due 3.9 million dollars each season for the next three years, and that would be a lot of money to pay for a #3, or 4 CB.

So any chance he is released?


No, he'll be our #2. Butler has the potential to be that but hasn't shown the consistancy. Arrington is playing above his talent level, pure hustle, love the guy but he's def upgradable. Like Desc said, Wilhite is on his way out.

[nepg]

Arrington is pulling a Randall ***.

[Jvig43]

http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4691844/jets-scott-threatens-welker

What a Dbag. Seriously can't stand this team. They talk **** tons of trash but when anyone else says anything back they either cry calling Brady an ass for hurting their feelings, or threaten to hurt someone in a game. We better kill this team Sunday.

[ElectricEye]

Yeah, I posted that in the NFL forum. Real classy.

[TACKLE]

Best of luck to you guys the rest of the way. I hope you guys put a beatdown on the Jets and the Steelers, especially the Steelers, like you've already done this year.

[ElectricEye]

Thank you sir. For the record; I was NOT looking forward to seeing you guys down the road.

[luckyjackaubrey]

That was a war earlier today. The Pats Jets banter has it hyped as the battle getting all the attention but those two teams were kickin the crap out of each other.

I too am glad we don't have the potential of facing the Ravens again this year.

[TACKLE]

Thank you sir. For the record; I was NOT looking forward to seeing you guys down the road.

Unfortunately that road may be a year longer than I had hoped. :(

[ElectricEye]

I might get to go tomorrow....coin flip in the morning. Wish me luck.

[descendency]

http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4691844/jets-scott-threatens-welker

What a Dbag. Seriously can't stand this team. They talk **** tons of trash but when anyone else says anything back they either cry calling Brady an ass for hurting their feelings, or threaten to hurt someone in a game. We better kill this team Sunday.

3? 4? TDs to be scored over Scott?

Logan Mankins is going to beast him.

[Ravens1991]

you guys are my last hope. Do work. Scott is a tool still living off that hit from Big Ben a while back. GO GET EM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Jvig43]

So close now. Why does it have to be at 430. haha

[Razor]

Six hours!!!! I can't wait!

F-E-E-T! FEET! FEET! FEET!

[ElectricEye]

No tickets :(

Apparently the Jest are now saying that the trash talk warning thing is "singling them out" and it's all about protection Tom Brady. Well, no **** it's singling you out because you're the only ones doing it. The Jest are successfully trolling the **** out of me.

[devinhester=R.O.Y 2006]

Lets go out there and have the boys take care of business! All that matters this week is a "W"...I would love to see us beat them by 30, but even if it takes a 1 point win I will take it. No matter how ugly a win at this stage, a win means your still alive.

Go Pats!

[ElectricEye]

All this time is making me nervous. I ******* hate bye weeks, even if they do help.

[Bigburt63]

The jets are the one team that we cannot lose to, absolutely cannot lose to. As much as I hate the steelers, i would rather lose next week to them than lose to the jets. I told my co-workers that I won't go to work for a week if the Pats lose because I will be in a deep deep depression looking at fat Rex and LT gloat about winning.

I am getting more nervous about the game (as I always do) as the game gets closer. I just cannot see the Jets coming out in the spread with Sanchez winging it around. Something about this game scares me.

[ElectricEye]

Part of that for me has to do with the entire media war. We have been far more active there than we have been in the past. That's very out of character and feels sort of weird...

Not that we were anywhere near as bad as the Jets were, but we acknowledged that they were talking about us multiple times this week. Usually we get "Blah blah blah just focusing on being the best on the field blah blah" but guys like Alge and Brady responded directly to things.

[Jvig43]

Part of that for me has to do with the entire media war. We have been far more active there than we have been in the past. That's very out of character and feels sort of weird...

Not that we were anywhere near as bad as the Jets were, but we acknowledged that they were talking about us multiple times this week. Usually we get "Blah blah blah just focusing on being the best on the field blah blah" but guys like Alge and Brady responded directly to things.

To be fair tho, we acknowledged it because they were picking out individuals instead of going for the team as a whole. The Brady comments, the Welker comments. We really didn't respond to much other then Cromarties and Welkers feet joke.

[ElectricEye]

I suppose it's not a big deal. I have no doubt we'll be focused. The team wants to bash Jet brains in even more than we do.

[Nalej]

I agree that the JETS are the ONE team we can NOT lose too.

[proshoota25]

lets go pats! i think itll be a close game, but hopefully rex ryan will be getting owned by the time the 4th quarter comes around.

[Razor]

F-E-E-T! FEET! FEET! FEET!

This has to happen today! I'm so pumped for this game. If we don't win I have to do something drastic...

[BradysKnee]

**** it guys, we got this, stop worrying, thought is creative.

[ElectricEye]

I think we're all just still recovering from being raped last year.

[luckyjackaubrey]

Nerves have started in earnest....need to work that out of the system.

What worries me:
+Jets have a good team built for playoff football despite the fact they are a group of tool bags.

+Any thing can happen on one gameday -it's not best two out of three.

What should make me feel better about the above:
+We had our stinker last time out in the playoffs (Ravens). Bill had a year to get the talent he lacked at the positions he desired. He had two weeks to address any possibility that anyone was not prepared for what was to come.

+Bill with two weeks to prepare for a martian invasion armed only with sticks and a flaming bag of dog poo is even odds for me- and we got more than dog poo for this one.....

Go Pats!!

[ElectricEye]

I would feel so much better if it wasn't the Jets. We have SO much to lose. That's the thing I think. We can't just be like "oh, yeah, whatever draft ect...". We would have lost to the ******* Jets and there's no changing that for six months.

[luckyjackaubrey]

That is NOT how I want the team thinking. That is just what Rex is looking for when he starts all this ****. It may be the Jets but its really just another game, at least that is how I want the team thinking about it. If Welker is worried that it's the Jets trying to tackle him and not just some other team, he is losing focus on the task at hand.

Thinking that losing is bad but to the Jets is the end of the world gives an edge to the Jets they don't warrant. It weakens focus. Not our style....

[ElectricEye]

Luckily, I am a fan and not a member of the team. I think the team is mostly pissed off at the Jets and ready to go.

[luckyjackaubrey]

Brad Smith inactive. One less thing to gameplan for. taylor not suiting up for Pats. Also no Pryor.

[ElectricEye]

Brad Smith inactive. One less thing to gameplan for. taylor not suiting up for Pats. Also no Pryor.

That's actually good news. Brad Smith is a guy we've had some trouble containing in the past.

[proshoota25]

F-E-E-T! FEET! FEET! FEET!

This has to happen today! I'm so pumped for this game. If we don't win I have to do something drastic...

haha the atmosphere at gillette better be insane

[ElectricEye]

IT WOULD BE BETTER IF I WAS THERE!!!

Damn. Really wish I got those tickets.

[luckyjackaubrey]

How were you close to gettin some? That would've been all time sweet...

[ElectricEye]

Waiting list for season tickets. I'm taking my amateur fan status to pro soon. People sell them on gameday all the time. They were just that little bit too expensive.

[luckyjackaubrey]

My twisted, non reality fantasy scenario would be for the pats to win this on a last second field goal. Only in the dream, the Pat's kicker was injured earlier in the game, so with time expiring Wes Welker steps in to take the game winning shot......barefoot....just for Rex...... and splits the uprights.....

[ElectricEye]

That would certainly keep us all on our toes.

[luckyjackaubrey]

Rex would have to answer the question " Rex, why didn't you ice Welker on that kick at the end?"

"Um, well, I was mesmerized at how pretty his toes were and lost track of time..."

[ElectricEye]

Maybe Rex and Welker just got off on the wrong foot...of course getting off on the wrong foot is a big marital issue for Rex.

[Jvig43]

I really think whats being over looked is the Pats running game. We need to run the ball, and if the Jets provoke us to run like they did to the Colts, were going to get a ton of yards. Colts were ripping them for some good chunks of yards, were going to need to run the ball to keep the blitz off of Brady, and give our defense a rest.

And man Brady's face right there scares me. He looks really passive right now. I hate when he looks like that, we need him fired up.

[proshoota25]

I really think whats being over looked is the Pats running game. We need to run the ball, and if the Jets provoke us to run like they did to the Colts, were going to get a ton of yards. Colts were ripping them for some good chunks of yards, were going to need to run the ball to keep the blitz off of Brady, and give our defense a rest.

And man Brady's face right there scares me. He looks really passive right now. I hate when he looks like that, we need him fired up.

dont worry im pretty sure he will be fine

[ElectricEye]

I really think whats being over looked is the Pats running game. We need to run the ball, and if the Jets provoke us to run like they did to the Colts, were going to get a ton of yards. Colts were ripping them for some good chunks of yards, were going to need to run the ball to keep the blitz off of Brady, and give our defense a rest.

And man Brady's face right there scares me. He looks really passive right now. I hate when he looks like that, we need him fired up.
Good points. We'll kill them with the run if they just give it to us.

[Jvig43]

Waiting for this game is not helping my anxiety problem.

[luckyjackaubrey]

Waiting for this game is not helping my anxiety problem.

Mine has manifested itself through a bad case of "The Winds". Gonna need to open a window here....corned beef buffet!

[BradysKnee]

Is realitycheck the ****** up family member for us that no one likes here? lol

[luckyjackaubrey]

We may need to sit him to start the second half.

[Jvig43]

**** Butler. **** him so hard right in the mouth.

[Jvig43]

That was a terrible ******* half of football. BB better get these guys asses in gear to actually play this ******* game. This is so frustrating.

[proshoota25]

pretty embarassing. stupid mistakes.

[luckyjackaubrey]

this possesion to start the second half is HUGE. Points there, preferably a TD and its a new game. Not where we want to be but all is not lost. Brady is the one who needs to get it together in a hurry.

[Razor]

This is so ******* pathetic. You guys can't imagine how intense my hatred for the Jets is. We can't lose this game, I would be so devastated. Please tell my everything's going to be fine.

[nepg]

They really just need to stop giving the Jets the ball near the 50. That's been the problem.

[Jvig43]

They really just need to stop giving the Jets the ball near the 50. That's been the problem.

Yep I just posted that in the pro thread. Ryan has this offense figured out, and theyre getting great field position from it. Our defense hasn't been terrible....thus far.

[Matthew Jones]

LET'S GO BABY! We got this.

[Jvig43]

LET'S GO BABY! We got this.

And then the defense falls apart when we need it most. Lovely.

[Jvig43]

Someone needs to change that favorite season thread to worst season thread. We need another A+ draft this year.

[Blackluck]

I stopped watching 2nd Quarter. How we lost to this Jets team is beyond me.

But on the bright side, no one thought before the season began we were a Super Bowl caliber team.

And now we wont' get embarresed by the Packers had we made it.

[Jvig43]

I stopped watching 2nd Quarter. How we lost to this Jets team is beyond me.

But on the bright side, no one thought before the season began we were a Super Bowl caliber team.

And now we wont' get embarresed by the Packers had we made it.

I was actually sitting here at halftime thinking how even if we made it past this game how badly Rodgers or Rapelisburger would rape us through the air. Tough game to lose, I'm pretty pissed but were young. Were going to be competitive for years to come. As long as the Jets don't win the super bowl Im happy.

[Razor]

Dear NE Patriot players.

**** you all very much. Thanks for not even ******* trying to win this game. How can you not give a **** about this game, how can you treat your fans like this? This was pathetic.

[ElectricEye]

I'm just stopping in the make my suicide official.

[nepg]

I was actually sitting here at halftime thinking how even if we made it past this game how badly Rodgers or Rapelisburger would rape us through the air. Tough game to lose, I'm pretty pissed but were young. Were going to be competitive for years to come. As long as the Jets don't win the super bowl Im happy.
If they got past this game, they would have been fine. I always worry how this team will come out after a playoff bye playing a team like this.

[Jvig43]

If they got past this game, they would have been fine. I always worry how this team will come out after a playoff bye playing a team like this.

Rodgers would have ******* killed us, I'm sorry haha. BB just was out smarted again by Ryan today.

[proshoota25]

it was a great season guys. not gunna really want to talk about the loss. we can now move onto draft discussion.... few key spots we really need to fill... and we will be back at it again next year.

[ElectricEye]

http://www.steelermaniacs.com/wp-content/themes/thesis_18/custom/rotator/steelers-logo.gif

[Jvig43]

Yeah I guess for the most part this was a fun season. However this loss stings almost as much as the Giants one. And **** the Steelers, go bears.

[nepg]

I hope all the teams die in plane crashes.

[Jvig43]

I want a ******* WR.

[ElectricEye]

I hope all the teams die in plane crashes.

http://www.flagandbanner.com/f-b-images/tpatgml.jpg

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/ABPub/2008/12/24/2008558101.jpg

http://www.midwestsportsfans.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/john_madden.jpg

[Razor]

I want a ******* WR.

Yeah, me too. Why the hell didn't BB put in Price to run som go routes? At the very least it would've creating some space in the middle of the field. And **** Deion Branch, wtf happened to him today??!

[ElectricEye]

Yeah, me too. Why the hell didn't BB put in Price to run som go routes? At the very least it would've creating some space in the middle of the field. And **** Deion Branch, wtf happened to him today??!

http://www.gagsandgoods.com/products_pictures/dog-dirt-poop.gif

[Matthew Jones]

It's always a complete failure when you have a Hall of Fame QB in his prime and you can't win a Super Bowl ring. This season is promising in regards to the future but it's still a failure.

[ElectricEye]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_T_JachDW9ag/SqVbx19XPvI/AAAAAAAAAj8/RsavMrh6AxU/s800/facepalm-combo.jpg

[Jvig43]

So at least we know where both are picks are going to be?

[Blackluck]

I know all of us are thinking WTF?

We have a ton of rookies. We had many injuries. Should we have won this game?

Absolutely. We are a far better team right now than the Jets. Simply put, our team chocked.

That said, in the next five years, there is no other team better positioned to go on a dominant run than this team. Our current crop of rookies get one more year under their belt, we get back our laundry list of injured players. The only real obstacle in our way moving forward is the lack of a CBA agreement.

And take solace, the Steelers are going to kill the Jets.

[BradysKnee]

Yeah man, I think this game was a good learning experience for our youth. Who clearly were not ready.

Good news is, we're young, l oaded with picks again. Good cap situation.

Jets are none of that.

**** it, i think packers wouldve smoked us in the SB anyway lol.

[nepg]

I think the Pats would have beaten the Packers. The Packers didn't have Rodgers when they played the Patriots earlier, but with how Flynn played, there's no way the Packers are much better with Rodgers in that game.

I had a ton of confidence in this team if they could get past the Jets.

[Nalej]

I feel like ****. Couldn't even enjoy a great dinner my wife made.
Brady is in his 30s. We only have a small window with him in his prime left.
Expectations were low to start the season but that doesn't make this loss any easier.
The DL depth is what killed us imo.
A first round of Kerrigan and Heyward would be wonderful.
A healthy Wright and Pryor, and FA WR speedster and resigning Mankin.

The draft is so far away, the Celtics are banged up and baseball is still months away.
Worst time of the year
I'm going to have nightmares of drops, false starts and sacks up until the draft

[Don Vito]

OL
DL
OLB
Big WR

[Crickett]

I feel like ****. Couldn't even enjoy a great dinner my wife made.
Brady is in his 30s. We only have a small window with him in his prime left.

The Patriots may have just lost, but don't sell them short. They were the #1 seed in the AFC, are just coming off of one of the best draft classes in recent memory and have a bajillion draft picks this upcoming year.

[descendency]

OL
DL
OLB
Big WR

Most of the pressure came from the jets through either Connolly or Koppen. Connolly has been a liability at times all year, which I don't see how other fans seemed to like him a lot more than me.

The Patriots DL has 2 of the 3 DL they need (Ty Warren on IR).

The Patriots do not have a good OLB right now.

WR is an interesting debate.

CB/S could be another interesting debate.

[ElectricEye]

OL
DL
OLB
Big WR

Yes, yes, and yes. OL was exposed as a major weakness today. Shaun Ellis ate Dan Connolly lunch and Koppen and Light were and adventure as per usual. Deion Branch and Wes Welker disappeared. We aren't able to physically impose ourself...which is a major weakness in the playoffs. Sometimes you just need to be the biggest, strongest guy in the fight rather than the most crafty.

[Babylon]

Yes, yes, and yes. OL was exposed as a major weakness today. Shaun Ellis ate Dan Connolly lunch and Koppen and Light were and adventure as per usual. Deion Branch and Wes Welker disappeared. We aren't able to physically impose ourself...which is a major weakness in the playoffs. Sometimes you just need to be the biggest, strongest guy in the fight rather than the most crafty.

With all their flaws i think they still win the game if they dont #### up so much. The Crumpler drop, the screwup on the fake punt both led to 11 points and they never seemed to be able to dig out.

Up and down the roster there are too many system guys and not enough talent, but that can be remedied with a good draft. Back to work.

[Nalej]

Three straight playoff losses. Great seasons though. I feel like a Colts fan.

[Don Vito]

I feel like a Colts fan.

I feel like we've had a very Colts-esque last few years. We have some young talent, but we need to use this draft to add some more attitude and toughness. We need to be able to boss people around in the trenches and aside from a few people we can't do that right now. This sucks now, but we are starting to head back in the right direction.

[Jvig43]

Haha yeah this certainly feels like a Colts team. And it really sucks. BB had two weeks to get this team ready for tonights game, and we still lost. BB is 2-3 against Ryan and the Jets. Maybe Ryan just has us figured out?

[descendency]

Potentially Huge consequence of the Loss:

Belichick now has to coach the pro-bowl this year.

The last time Belichick coached it, we signed Adialus Thomas a few weeks later. This year's top prize could be there as well.

http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/2645/asojersey.jpg

[Jvig43]

Yeah and then remember how well Thomas worked out for us haha. I'm saying it now, Aso is going to the Jets. And yes it will suck.

[descendency]

Yeah and then remember how well Thomas worked out for us haha. I'm saying it now, Aso is going to the Jets. And yes it will suck.
Why would the Jets do that?

I understand Aso is a beast, but the Jets have two very very good CBs. Where would they put them all?

I mean, Aso+Revis... unstoppable. Where does that leave Cromartie though?

[ElectricEye]

**** man. This should be such an awesome day. I know I'm being a little intense about this, but I can't get to sleep.

[ElectricEye]

Why would the Jets do that?

I understand Aso is a beast, but the Jets have two very very good CBs. Where would they put them all?

I mean, Aso+Revis... unstoppable. Where does that leave Cromartie though?

Cromartie is due to be a free agent.

[Jvig43]

Why would the Jets do that?

I understand Aso is a beast, but the Jets have two very very good CBs. Where would they put them all?

I mean, Aso+Revis... unstoppable. Where does that leave Cromartie though?

Having all three would be virtually impossible to pass on, and it's not out of the Jets persona to go after him. Aso and Revis have talked about it and even Ryan has spoken to the media about the possibility. I can just see it happening, Aso is going to want to win, I just see the Jets making a push for him. It makes more sense then Aso coming to us I'd imagine. Just a feeling I have.

[descendency]

Maybe I'm wrong, but there are a few teams that if Aso joined, they'd be the presumptive favorites (and by a good margin) to win the Super Bowl. The Patriots are one of those teams, right?

[Jvig43]

**** man. This should be such an awesome day. I know I'm being a little intense about this, but I can't get to sleep.

I hear ya, I really should be more upset but I just remind myself that I knew we over achieved this year to begin with. Were going to be even better this next year, and we just played a bad game today. It happens. Ryan certainly has alot of what we do figured out however. I'm rooting for the Bears the rest of the way through.

[descendency]

Yeah, this team just got knocked out as the #1 seed in the AFC and has basically 3 first round picks in the up coming draft as well as "a bunch of cap space." (which I think we can safely assume will be back in March)

To top it off, the team is young young young on defense. Hopefully the loss will propel them to work hard in the off-season.

[Jvig43]

Maybe I'm wrong, but there are a few teams that if Aso joined, they'd be the presumptive favorites (and by a good margin) to win the Super Bowl. The Patriots are one of those teams, right?

I suppose, and Mccourty + Aso would be insane but weve been moving towards a youth movement now for the last two years so I doubt BB will go after a 30 year old who wants to make bank. Although in a few years McCourty is going to be looking for that kind of money as well.

Also, I know I mentioned this, but we need a legit weapon for Brady. The tes are awesome for us, but we need a big fast WR. Branch and Welker really dont cut it against elite defenses.

[ElectricEye]

How the hell did Branch and Welker do as well as they did if they're that easy to shut down? I don't doubt it because I saw it happen....but why couldn't anyone else do it? I'm surprised that didn't bite us sooner. I think we can all remember how much I bitched about our lack of size after the Moss trade and it really became apparent today. Receiver is completely fair game in the first two rounds again and that sucks because today showed offensive line and defensive end are huge needs as well as long with the ever present elephant in the room at outside linebacker. ****. We might not even be able to take a pass rusher in the first three rounds anymore with all the **** we've got to fix. Wrong time to run into needs on offensive because that was supposed to be the one thing we could could on.

[Jvig43]

How the hell did Branch and Welker do as well as they did if they're that easy to shut down? I don't doubt it because I saw it happen....but why couldn't anyone else do it? I'm surprised that didn't bite us sooner. I think we can all remember how much I bitched about our lack of size after the Moss trade and it really became apparent today. Receiver is completely fair game in the first two rounds again and that sucks because today showed offensive line and defensive end are huge needs as well as long with the ever present elephant in the room at outside linebacker. ****. We might not even be able to take a pass rusher in the first three rounds anymore with all the **** we've got to fix. Wrong time to run into needs on offensive because that was supposed to be the one thing we could could on.

Where was Hernandez in this game? I feel like he would of been a nightmare for the Jets trying to cover Branch, Welker and Gronk only to have Hernandez open. Maybe Price pans out? He looked solid in his minimal time which could help. I forgot how tall he was but he could be a speedster. Tate has really not been what we all thought he would, he can't be a deep threat for us because he can't get open. At all. All this talk about trading for Fitz could be legit, but we would have to give up a first for him. And I really don't want to do that. Jackson is a free agent, and while he has gotten into trouble I think he could do a lot for this team. Another thing that messed us up tonight, Brady's play calling on that missed fourth down drive. We took like six minutes off the clock because he kept running it, which is fine but at least do it out of the no huddle which Brady excels in.

[Don Vito]

Hernandez was great at getting open against man coverage for most of the year but he looked lost yesterday. All game the Jets were not letting our guys get free releases off the line, and then were dropping back in a lot more zone or man/zone combos than we usually see. Hernandez couldn't just use his speed right off the line and I'm sure the Jets made a point of that. We simply just looked like we were not prepared to face what the Jets gave us yesterday.

We are really good at playing with the lead, but the last few seasons we have struggled a lot in these close games against good teams. That first drive, we were moving the ball so well and I am convinced if we scored a TD we would've coasted through that game. That interception on the screen changed the whole game, even if the Jets got no posits out of it. We clearly had our best rhythm of the game going and it was completely disrupted.

Going back to the point of us not playing well from behind, that really boils down to us needing to be more physical especially on defense. Offense shouldn't have to win us every game week in and week out.

[AntoinCD]

I remember last week reading how Mangini said they drafted Nick Mangold to block Vince Wilfork. I have now decided, and this almost changes on an hourly basis lol, **** it!!! I want BB to go get Julio Jones just to knock the **** out of Darrelle Revis on every play. If Revis is gonna take someone out of the game we may as well make him pay for it in the run game. Then go OLB and interior offensive line.

[Razor]

I remember last week reading how Mangini said they drafted Nick Mangold to block Vince Wilfork. I have now decided, and this almost changes on an hourly basis lol, **** it!!! I want BB to go get Julio Jones just to knock the **** out of Darrelle Revis on every play. If Revis is gonna take someone out of the game we may as well make him pay for it in the run game. Then go OLB and interior offensive line.

Haha, I'm with you on this one! I'd say that after that terrible effort by the entire team on sunday my wishlist for the first round looks like:

Anything but QB, K, P.

Julio would be sexy in our offense, but again... It all depends on who's available since we have far bigger needs than WR. Btw, have you heard about Ochocinco's tweet?

PePe and Bill #EPIC.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/01/17/chad-ochocinco-commences-flirtation-with-patriots/
I know he's old, but I'd still love to have him.

[AntoinCD]

Haha, I'm with you on this one! I'd say that after that terrible effort by the entire team on sunday my wishlist for the first round looks like:

Anything but QB, K, P.

Julio would be sexy in our offense, but again... It all depends on who's available since we have far bigger needs than WR. Btw, have you heard about Ochocinco's tweet?



http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/01/17/chad-ochocinco-commences-flirtation-with-patriots/
I know he's old, but I'd still love to have him.

Yeah I was reading PFT this morning about that. If we could get him for relatively cheap then Im all for it. I don't buy his whole diminishing play stuff, I just think he had a down year with a poor QB. Definitely worth a look and could be a good mentor for the younger guys because by most reports he is a helluva hard worker.

[Nalej]

If Mankin and G.Warren are resigned and Nick K and L.Bodden come back at full strength then our needs (according to me):

OLB, DE, C, RG, WR.......... RB, CB, S (If Meriweather is cut/dealt)

My sig is my new mock for the Pats...
not nec what I think will happen but what I wish will happen

J.Jones... WR... beast... starts right away, a downfield threat and can block
C.Heyward... DE... perfect 5 tech... starts right away
D.Love... OG/OT... it's his versatility... plugged in at RG and RT if needed
K.Odowd... C... the Koppen era ends.
J.Sheard... OLB... beast... could be a double digit sack artist in the future
D.Moch... OLB... freak... a very disruptive player... project, so it'll take some time

[AntoinCD]

If Mankin and G.Warren are resigned and Nick K and L.Bodden come back at full strength then our needs (according to me):

OLB, DE, C, RG, WR.......... RB, CB, S (If Meriweather is cut/dealt)

My sig is my new mock for the Pats...
not nec what I think will happen but what I wish will happen

J.Jones... WR... beast... starts right away, a downfield threat and can block
C.Heyward... DE... perfect 5 tech... starts right away
D.Love... OG/OT... it's his versatility... plugged in at RG and RT if needed
K.Odowd... C... the Koppen era ends.
J.Sheard... OLB... beast... could be a double digit sack artist in the future
D.Moch... OLB... freak... a very disruptive player... project, so it'll take some time

Hey do you guys mind leaving the room so I can have sex with that mock

[Razor]

If Mankin and G.Warren are resigned and Nick K and L.Bodden come back at full strength then our needs (according to me):

OLB, DE, C, RG, WR.......... RB, CB, S (If Meriweather is cut/dealt)

My sig is my new mock for the Pats...
not nec what I think will happen but what I wish will happen

J.Jones... WR... beast... starts right away, a downfield threat and can block
C.Heyward... DE... perfect 5 tech... starts right away
D.Love... OG/OT... it's his versatility... plugged in at RG and RT if needed
K.Odowd... C... the Koppen era ends.
J.Sheard... OLB... beast... could be a double digit sack artist in the future
D.Moch... OLB... freak... a very disruptive player... project, so it'll take some time

Nice mock, I wouldn't mind that. I'm not sold on Moch but in the bottom on the third I wouldn't mind taking a shot at him. I just updated mine today:

1a. Ryan Kerrigan, OLB, Purdue - perfect fit.
1b. Cam Heyward, DE, Ohio St. - see above
2a. DeMarcus Love, OG, Arkansas - Backs up Neal for a year and takes over
2b. Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami - Deep threat that we need
3a. Kris O'Dowd, C, USC - Takes over for Koppen = more time for Brady
3b. Marcus Gilbert, OT, Florida - Vollmer moves to LT, Gilbert kills people at RT.

I still want another pass rusher though. Beal could be an interesting guy in the second if he's there, Steven Friday could be a guy we look at in the third. RB is also still a need. Dion Lewis in the fifth would be sexy, I think this guy can start in the NFL.

[AntoinCD]

Nice mock, I wouldn't mind that. I'm not sold on Moch but in the bottom on the third I wouldn't mind taking a shot at him. I just updated mine today:

1a. Ryan Kerrigan, OLB, Purdue - perfect fit.
1b. Cam Heyward, DE, Ohio St. - see above
2a. DeMarcus Love, OG, Arkansas - Backs up Neal for a year and takes over
2b. Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami - Deep threat that we need
3a. Kris O'Dowd, C, USC - Takes over for Koppen = more time for Brady
3b. Marcus Gilbert, OT, Florida - Vollmer moves to LT, Gilbert kills people at RT.

I still want another pass rusher though. Beal could be an interesting guy in the second if he's there, Steven Friday could be a guy we look at in the third. RB is also still a need. Dion Lewis in the fifth would be sexy, I think this guy can start in the NFL.


Nice draft. Im not even sure we need a deep threat WR. We have Price, Tate etc who can get deep-Tate nearly had a huge reception vs the Jets had it not been for an overthrow. I think we need a big physical WR. Hankerson would work there in the second. I love the rest.

I done mine today as well

1a. If Julio falls we need to go up and get him. He can be the guy who beats up on Revis and has legit potential as a pro bowl #1 WR.
1b. Justin Houstin is a guy who I absolutely love. He can rush the passer and drop in coverage. He adds some real speed to the defense.
2. Mike Pouncey is a guy who isn't getting a lot of love at the moment but I think he is a tremendous OG prospect. I wouldn't like to see him at C but he is a big upgrade over Dan Connolly.
3. Kris O'Dowd can make sure Pouncey stays away from C. If this guy had no injury concerns Im convinced he'd be a first rounder.

For shits and giggles Ill throw in Marcus Gilbert in the 4th.

[Razor]

Nice draft. Im not even sure we need a deep threat WR. We have Price, Tate etc who can get deep-Tate nearly had a huge reception vs the Jets had it not been for an overthrow. I think we need a big physical WR. Hankerson would work there in the second. I love the rest.

I done mine today as well

1a. If Julio falls we need to go up and get him. He can be the guy who beats up on Revis and has legit potential as a pro bowl #1 WR.
1b. Justin Houstin is a guy who I absolutely love. He can rush the passer and drop in coverage. He adds some real speed to the defense.
2. Mike Pouncey is a guy who isn't getting a lot of love at the moment but I think he is a tremendous OG prospect. I wouldn't like to see him at C but he is a big upgrade over Dan Connolly.
3. Kris O'Dowd can make sure Pouncey stays away from C. If this guy had no injury concerns Im convinced he'd be a first rounder.

For shits and giggles Ill throw in Marcus Gilbert in the 4th.
That's a nice draft as well. I actually like Pouncey more than Love, but the versatility won me over. But both are big upgrades over Connlly who played like **** against the Jets. Gilbert is one of my favourite sleepers for the Pats. I think he could be a very good RT in our system.
I actually think the deep ball to Tate was a good thrown, but Tate was redirected just enough so that he couldn't make the catch. Price and Tate can be deep threats, but they don't have great size which imo is a big thing on deep passes with the routes we run. Also, what is up with our defense? They couldn't stop a slant to save their lives! Also, somebody need to teach them to wrap up and/or close in on the QB when they get penetration. A lot of sacks were left on the field this season, I hope that is something they can change. This defense is so close to being great, but we need to draft some big time talent.

[sportslover]

I am a huge believer in JJ Watt to the Pats at 17, I know the Pats are very unpredictable but I love this pick.

#16 -- JJ Watt, DE, Wisconsin
#28 -- Justin Houston, OLB, Georgia
#33 -- Mike Pouncey, C/G, Florida
#60 -- Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
#74 -- Curtis Brown, CB, Texas
#92 -- Marcus Gilbert, OT, Florida

I'd love a draft like this for the Patriots, and at the moment this is very realistic.

[ElectricEye]

I am a huge believer in JJ Watt to the Pats at 17, I know the Pats are very unpredictable but I love this pick.

#16 -- JJ Watt, DE, Wisconsin
#28 -- Justin Houston, OLB, Georgia
#33 -- Mike Pouncey, C/G, Florida
#60 -- Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
#74 -- Curtis Brown, CB, Texas
#92 -- Marcus Gilbert, OT, Florida

I'd love a draft like this for the Patriots, and at the moment this is very realistic.

This is very good. I'm not so big on Houston for us, but aside from that I can see a justification for every single pick. I might take Heyward over Watt at #17, but aside from that this is top notch.


Just to clarify something for people too; Hankerson is not a deep threat at the next level. He'll be more of a mid range target that is physical and has the ability to get YAC. Think a bigger, more polished James Jones.

[Razor]

Just to clarify something for people too; Hankerson is not a deep threat at the next level. He'll be more of a mid range target that is physical and has the ability to get YAC. Think a bigger, more polished James Jones.

Oh, I disagree. He's a former track star and has the ability to just outrun DBs. Combined with his route running abilities I think he's a great fit.

[ElectricEye]

Oh, I disagree. He's a former track star and has the ability to just outrun DBs. Combined with his route running abilities I think he's a great fit.

Everyone is a former track star in the NCAA...doesn't mean he'll run anything better than 4.5. He's a good player, but he doesn't blow by people for Miami so I see no reason that he'll end up doing that in the NFL. He's improved his hands and concentration by leaps and bounds the past year and that's going to lead to some major NFL productive in conjunction with his big body and his high effort style after the catch, but we're not talking about Kenny Britt here. If Hankerson was faster, he would be a first round pick. He's sort of a personal favorite of mine in this class so I'm by no means trying to undersell him, but that's the truth of it.

[sportslover]

I like the guy alot, but no he isn't a deep threat. He is a bigger, physical WR, who can go over the middle, make tough catches and allow the pass game to open up even a bit more. i really don't like this class for deep threats, but I don't think we nessacarily need that. Hankerson and Branch on the outside would both be threats, allowing teams to have to worry about them and oopening up Wes more and more, and the TE's. If we need to stretch the field I think Price will be that guy next year, and if Tate can put it together, I have loved that guy since his days at North Carolina, but he can't seem to put it together.

[ElectricEye]

Tate is just not a very natural receiver. The big drop in the Jets game really is a classic example of this. He dove for the ball when he clearly didn't have to and made the catch harder than he should have. Another two steps and he comes down with it in stride.

[FlyingElvis]

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r39/dmc27sinned/smily%20guys/blues_hands_lg.gif



Everything looks like it needs to be fixed after such an ugly game, but there's clearly a major need for pressure and o-line help. I was one of the "Connolly can do it" crowd . . . not so much anymore. DE & OLB need to be our first two picks if we don't have a shot at one of those top 2 WRs.

EE's worst nightmare realized . . . clog the middle and the passing game is ******.

[descendency]

I'm still shooting for Ryan Kerrigan, Cameron Jordan, and Rodney Hudson as the first 3 picks.

edit: Though, with Connolly being blown up, I can see a pick going for Mike Pouncey to play Guard.

[descendency]

Oh, I disagree. He's a former track star and has the ability to just outrun DBs. Combined with his route running abilities I think he's a great fit.

Hankerson's problem isn't his speed. It's his football IQ. He doesn't seem to understand when he has to break his route and get open. He doesn't do much to help his QB.

[Razor]

Hankerson's problem isn't his speed. It's his football IQ. He doesn't seem to understand when he has to break his route and get open. He doesn't do much to help his QB.

Well.... I have the luxury of being a fan of two college teams: Miami Hurricanes and the Oregon Ducks (both have ducks as mascots, you do the math lol). So I've seen him play quite a lot, or at least I'd like to think so. On the deep ball I think it's more often than not the case, that Harris underthrows the pass rather than Hank not making the play. Usually Hankerson has seperaion from the DB. Often he's able to adjust to poor throws and make the catch but will get tackled as soon as he catches the ball. Had he had a good QB (NFL caliber) who had thrown the ball in front of Hankerson, allowing him to catch it in stride, very few DBs would be able to follow him down the field. For his size he also has a very good burst and he makes pretty crisp cuts. So you're right when you say that speed isn't his problem. Not sure if football IQ is a problem, but he did have problems with concentration but I think he showed this season that he's past that for the most part. He's not a first rounder imo because he's not special in any area. His hands are fine, but not elite by any measure. His speed is good, but not elite. I think he can run a 4.45 forty which is good. I like the mix of skills he has, he's not bad at anything. But he's not elite either. I think he is a great fit in NE which it seems most people here think. The question is whether he's a deep threat which I think he is. Obviously, I could be wrong. But until proven otherwise, I will stand by my remarks that Hankerson is a deep threat lol.

[descendency]

Julio would be sexy in our offense, but again... It all depends on who's available since we have far bigger needs than WR. Btw, have you heard about Ochocinco's tweet?



http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/01/17/chad-ochocinco-commences-flirtation-with-patriots/
I know he's old, but I'd still love to have him.

Too bad 85 is a slightly faster Deon Branch with no previous experience with Tom Brady.

We need a guy more like Julio Jones than 85.

[descendency]

I will stand by my remarks that Hankerson is a deep threat

I agree that he's a deep threat and that Jacori Harris sucks and that Hankerson will be a better WR in the pros than in college because of this, but I just don't know if he won't need a ton of coaching and time to work on his chemistry.

[ElectricEye]

Ok Gentlemen, I did it. I punched myself in the dick and watched the game again to try to break it down.

Observations;

-Receiver is absolutely a need. None of our receivers can make a play on the ball when they have a guy on them. They struggle to get separation against good press man coverage.

-The Jets clogged the middle of the field. Often times they had 6 defensive backs playing at once. That completely closed off the inside passing lanes and made the tight ends have to run their routes into deeper territory than they should be comfortable going to.

-We did not adjust in time. Much has been made about that 8 minute drive that killed the clock, but it was the right thing....two quarters ago. If we had started doing that earlier, it would have required the Jets to change their defense up and play different coverages.

-We should have gone to the hurry up. I have literally no idea why we didn't try it. We did briefly...and it worked. The Jets were not giving away pre-snap information and broadcasting their blitzes and coverages like last time, so their was no reason not to.

-Brady left some plays on the field. The miscommunication with Gronkowski was big. He had Woodhead open underneath plenty of times...some of which would have gone for first downs.

-The fake punt was a brilliant call. Chung just ****** it up. Sammy Morris sealed off the lane and it would have worked if Chung hadn't dropped the ball. I think it was snapped early though. Supposedly it was called at the LOS. Not everyone was on the right page. Katula snapped it before Chung was expecting it. Slater did not know what was going on either. He released outside and was pushed out of the play. Irrelevant to the result, but if he knew it was a fake punt he would have released inside to help block. So not everyone was on the right page.

-We played WAAAAY too much zone. The Jets were all too happy to gobble it right up. Might have been the right thing to do at the start of the game to try to force a turnover, but it was not working and we should have adjusted. McCourty is one of the better corners in the league right now. Let him play like one.

-No pass rush. The eternal bugaboo. We were not able to get off blocks and make Sanchez panic. Eric Moore and company did not show up this game. The scary part is I'm not sure we really care enough to fix this part.

-Our offensive line got **** on. The Jets brought pressure at key moments and did it really well(ex: Brady moving Woodhead out to protect to the wrong side) but for the most part they pressured with three and four men. Dan Connolly got put on his ass time after time. Koppen did a poor job cleaning up too. Mike Devito, Shaun Ellis, and Pouha really just took a big fat dump all over our interior. Even Mankins got pushed around. Shaun Ellis pushed him back damn near five yards one time. Light and Vollmer graded out as average for this game, but weren't really challenged. Light was late on getting out for some things and didn't do make good decisions with more than one person coming at him as per usual...but it was an average game.

-The Jets outright won the battle physically. They wanted it waaaay more than our team did and that's a MAJOR problem. We've shown up flat two years in a row for playoff games now. What the hell?

[FlyingElvis]

Excellent break down. Even on that late drive that killed way too much clock, Welker was open in the flat on 3rd down but Brady didn't throw it to him. Simms even remarked on it during the replay and stated Brady didn't go there b/c it wasn't enough for the first down. The problem was that it would have put the ball at the 30 yard line and given us a shot at a 47 yard field goal to make it a 7 point game.

There was pretty much a substantial failure in all aspects of the game. Brady, Oline, Defensively . . . everything.

[ElectricEye]

It was the type of game that if it were baseball, you tell the pitcher to give the guy some chin music. If it were hockey, start a fight. Basketball..put in Nate Robinson. We just never found our spark.

[nepg]

They still wouldn't have kicked a 47 yarder. Graham doesn't have the leg. They really missed Gostkowski there. This was a situation where the Pats really didn't benefit from the week off at all.

As for Ochocinco... Speed is overrated with him. If he wants to come put in the work, he'd be a slam dunk in New England.

[FlyingElvis]

They still wouldn't have kicked a 47 yarder. Graham doesn't have the leg. They really missed Gostkowski there. This was a situation where the Pats really didn't benefit from the week off at all.



I'm not sure which way the wind was going, but either way - if Brady makes that throw to a wide open Welker, we have the choice. Welker is just slippery enough that maybe he converts anyway. Even if you still go for it you have a much better chance of converting 4th and 3 compared to 4th and 13 (or whatever it was.) It's just one example in a sea of fail . . .

[ElectricEye]

More I watch, the more I see that Brady had some major stuff underneath. He was seeing people that weren't there rushing him too.

[descendency]

This is old but hilarious:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=meImeHGgGis&feature=related

[Nalej]

Go Packers!!!

[proshoota25]

Go Packers!!!

exactly. thats who i will be cheering for in two weeks

[Jvig43]

Yep, Packers all the way. I love that all the teams that played today, we blew out in the regular season. Ain't that some ****.

[ElectricEye]

I still resent the Packers for 1996. First major sports disappointed of my life. All us young guys are really ******* lucky if you think about it. We've taken our lumps lately, but the run we've had in this neck of the woods has been amazing.

[descendency]

I resent the Packers for 96, the Bears for 85, the Jets for being the Jets. . . and I really hate those ******* trash talking Steelers. I almost wish the Super Bowl would end in a tie.

[sportslover]

All is true but above all, thank god the Jets are gone.

The Packers cost us in '07 too, cause there is no way we would have lost to them.

[Jvig43]

All is true but above all, thank god the Jets are gone.

The Packers cost us in '07 too, cause there is no way we would have lost to them.

That was 2 out of three times Farve has screwed us. He just had to join the Jets the following year to suck just enough and keep us out of the playoffs.

[Don Vito]

I still resent the Packers for 1996. First major sports disappointed of my life. All us young guys are really ******* lucky if you think about it. We've taken our lumps lately, but the run we've had in this neck of the woods has been amazing.

I was only 7 years old then but I still remember watching that game and everything. We have been very lucky as far as championships go; but the 2007 Super Bowl, 2003 ALCS, and 2010 NBA Finals were as tough of losses as any fans could deal with.

[nepg]

That was a ******* gut punch game. Living in Mississippi and surrounded by Favre fans...

That offensive line was mostly terrible. The Pats should have won that game, imo. The announcing and pre-corronation of the Packers before the game started made it seem like the actuall game wasn't that close...but it was. **** the right side of the OL and **** Parcells.

[FlyingElvis]

I was so excited that we might have the chance to avenge one of those lost Superbowls. I was 9 and still hate the Bears for that drubbing. The Pack loss was nowhere near as tough.

Oh well.

Go Pack Go!

[ElectricEye]

I was only 7 years old then but I still remember watching that game and everything. We have been very lucky as far as championships go; but the 2007 Super Bowl, 2003 ALCS, and 2010 NBA Finals were as tough of losses as any fans could deal with.

2003 ALCS was the first real kick in the balls for me since I was too young for the other stuff to really hit me.


But yeah, Packers have injuries, go Packers, ect.

[Don Vito]

That was a ******* gut punch game. Living in Mississippi and surrounded by Favre fans...

That offensive line was mostly terrible. The Pats should have won that game, imo. The announcing and pre-corronation of the Packers before the game started made it seem like the actuall game wasn't that close...but it was. **** the right side of the OL and **** Parcells.

I'm actually from MA and lived there my whole life, I just go to Ole Miss. However my freshman year I was surrounded by Eli Manning fans when we lost to the Giants and that really sucked.

[descendency]

Sebastian Vollmer made the All Pro second team. Maybe he can play LT next year . . . just maybe???

There seems to be a lack of a certain OT Michael Oher on that list. . .

[nepg]

Sebastian Vollmer made the All Pro second team. Maybe he can play LT next year . . . just maybe???

There seems to be a lack of a certain OT Michael Oher on that list. . .
He wasn't as dominant in his first season moving back to LT. Should be back in the mix next year.

[Don Vito]

Good for Vollmer, he should be playing LT next year and he was probably our best lineman this year. Oher struggled a little moving to the left side, he can play left side but he can be the league's best RT. If he stays on the left side next year he should improve though.

[Borat]

How many rookies do you guys think can make the Patriot roster next year?

I'm wondering if they'll be moving up instead of down like they usually do.

[descendency]

Good for Vollmer, he should be playing LT next year and he was probably our best lineman this year. Oher struggled a little moving to the left side, he can play left side but he can be the league's best RT. If he stays on the left side next year he should improve though.

I'm not saying he wasn't great, but Logan Mankins came in and changed the feel of the OL.

If we can re-sign Mankins and draft a filler at either RG or RT, I can see us having the best OL in the NFL again.

[ElectricEye]

I actually thought Vollmer was BETTER as a LT last year. He really made his name nationally blocking Clay Matthews, but I sort of questioned his play a bit in the middle of the year. I think he projects better to the left side and should be moved there next year.

[Matthew Jones]

The offensive line is one of the things I'm most looking forward to rebuilding. I think the Patriots will probably re-sign Matt Light. It'd be awesome if the team drafted, say, Stefen Wisniewski and Danny Watkins (who they've shown interest in already, and who's been dominating at the Senior Bowl, even holding his own against 337 pound teammate Phil Taylor) this year to play C and RG respectively, and then Riley Reiff next year to finish off the line: Vollmer - Mankins - Wisniewski - Watkins - Reiff. Waiting for Watkins would free up the team to spend more picks on other positions of need (defensive end/linebacker/wide receiver if I'm picking.) Leonard Hankerson could be playing his way into the middle of the second this week, although he'd be a good pick.

[ElectricEye]

We damn well better keep Mankins now though. That would be a massive kick in the balls.

[Jvig43]

I'm betting Mankins goes. I really don't see us paying more or him accepting what was previously offered. That said, Vollmer was certainly better at LT. That colts game last year against Freeney was awesome.

[ElectricEye]

nepg and I could really use some votes on the build a team contest if you guys are so kind, although vote objectively.

http://www.draftcountdown.com/forum/showthread.php?t=45414

[nepg]

nepg and I could really use some votes on the build a team contest if you guys are so kind, although vote objectively.

http://www.draftcountdown.com/forum/showthread.php?t=45414
Hey, man... So could I.

[ElectricEye]

That's why I mentioned you sir.

[Jvig43]

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d81df9d97/article/mankins-on-patriots-making-offer-i-dont-see-it-happening?module=HP_headlines

Don't consider Mankins back. I know with Wilfork a similar situation happened but I just don't see us bringing him back. My only hope is that we franchise him and trade him to the highest bidder.

[Jvig43]

Also just read a mock of the Pats taking Locker at 17. I almost spit my water out.

[ElectricEye]

As much as I love Locker, that would be a bad pick. Unless Belichick is sure he's Brady's Steve Young.

[Nalej]

As much as I love Locker, that would be a bad pick. Unless Belichick is sure he's Brady's Steve Young.

That'd still be a bad pick

[ElectricEye]

I LOVE Locker as a prospect. I think he has as much upside as any quarterback in recent memory if things fall well. But he would need to sit for at least two years. Would be a good situation for him here, but I'm against drafting a quarterback.

[nepg]

I don't see how anyone could be legitimately upset with Locker being the pick.

[Jvig43]

I don't see how anyone could be legitimately upset with Locker being the pick.

Because QB is like the strongest position on the team. And we have much more pressing needs than finding a replacement to a guy who just had one of the best seasons of his career playing with nobodies.

[ryno626]

unless Locker plans on bulking up to play end or wants to rush the passer then i want no part of him. (unless we use him as trade bait to another team to get moar pickz.) That's it, he's a quarterback so he'd be the perfect passrusher! HE KNOWS WHAT THE QUARTERBACK IS THINKING!

[Nalej]

Exactly. We're built to win now. We can always grab a qb in a couple yrs and he'd still sit a couple more before Brady's gone.
OLB still is the biggest need as of now.

[ElectricEye]

I don't see how anyone could be legitimately upset with Locker being the pick.
Because the window is closing on a Super Bowl run. We have three years to win another title. Might as well go for broke with that. We're set up for the future pretty well on defense too, but Brady is under contract for three more years and can possibly play for six more.

[nepg]

The team isn't just built to win now, though... There's no magical, closing window here. And what's the QB situation going to be like 4-5 years down the road?

I'm not saying whether they should or will, I'm saying I don't see how you can be upset with that pick if they chose to go that route.

[ElectricEye]

Because it doesn't help us right now. We were two games away from the Super Bowl. We shouldn't be thinking about five years down the road.

[nepg]

Because it doesn't help us right now. We were two games away from the Super Bowl. We shouldn't be thinking about five years down the road.
They're one of the youngest teams in the NFL with a boat load of picks. If they like one of the QBs enough to stash them away for 4-5 years, I can't question it.

[ElectricEye]

I wouldn't question it, but I think the fanbase would be justifiably upset. We're a few pieces away from winning a Super Bowl. The pick you would have to use to get that quarterback would be taking away an opportunity to find a player to help us do that.

[AntoinCD]

The team isn't just built to win now, though... There's no magical, closing window here. And what's the QB situation going to be like 4-5 years down the road?

I'm not saying whether they should or will, I'm saying I don't see how you can be upset with that pick if they chose to go that route.

I agree with the first sentence but not with the rest here. There is no window, as such, because BB is a master of retooling the team on the fly. The problem I have with taking Locker is, best case scenario, he gets us a first rounder in 3 or 4 years. No way will Belichick take a QB and sit him for more than four years, then pay him a contract extension without him proving anything. It also takes away a premium draft choice from a position of need. If we take a top rated pass rusher, DE and rebuild the interior of the offensive line this year then not only are we set up to win for the next few years but we would also be one of, if not the, favourite for the Superbowl for the next three or four years.

It wasn't our lack of a back up QB that lost the game to the Jets. It was an inability to get to Sanchez and the offensive line not being able to keep Brady clean that cost us. Now three picks in the top 33 should clearly help this and should be used on need areas

[ElectricEye]

At a certain point you have to decide to go for the throat and win the damn thing instead of building for next year.

[ryno626]

It wasn't our lack of a back up QB that lost the game to the Jets. It was an inability to get to Sanchez and the offensive line not being able to keep Brady clean that cost us. Now three picks in the top 33 should clearly help this and should be used on need areas

this this and more of this! + rep to you sir

[Jvig43]

Sorry nepg, but I don't see how anyone would be happy with that pick. We need pass rushing and Oline help badly. We don't need a guy who is going to sit for four years with our first round pick in the draft, I'm sorry.

[descendency]

After 2012, Vollmer will require a new LT contract. He made the 2nd team All-Pro list. He's going to be expensive (even with a home town discount). I think Mayo will be coming due soon too. Lots of these successful draft picks will be requiring new contracts soon.

I think that's your "closing window" (similar to how the Jets may have closed this year without some elite drafting)

[AntoinCD]

After 2012, Vollmer will require a new LT contract. He made the 2nd team All-Pro list. He's going to be expensive (even with a home town discount). I think Mayo will be coming due soon too. Lots of these successful draft picks will be requiring new contracts soon.

I think that's your "closing window" (similar to how the Jets may have closed this year without some elite drafting)

But that happened in the last two years also with Brady, Wilfork, Mankins, Bodden etc all needing new contracts along with steady vets like James Sanders, Rob Ninkovich etc getting extensions. All with the exceptions of Mankins received it as well. Every team has these issues but clearly the Pats are better than most when it comes to planning for both the present and the future

[ElectricEye]

I think we'll be able to sign Vollmer to an affordable deal. Mayo is a guy we're going to have to overpay for just a bit.

[AntoinCD]

I think we'll be able to sign Vollmer to an affordable deal. Mayo is a guy we're going to have to overpay for just a bit.

Yeah, **** Karlos Dansby for inflating the price of ILBs. Plus Patrick Willis will be due a contract before Mayo so you know it will be based in and around that, even though Mayo isn't the player P Willy is

[ElectricEye]

The thing that will bother me about signing Mayo to a big deal is that he goes through streaks where he's more of a complier than a play maker. He was world better this year in that regard...but even still.

[AntoinCD]

The thing that will bother me about signing Mayo to a big deal is that he goes through streaks where he's more of a complier than a play maker. He was world better this year in that regard...but even still.

If he builds on his play next year and has another good year Im willing to chalk it down to injury last year. I wanna see more big plays out of him, but the one thing you can say is he never makes a bone-headed play and costs the team