New England Patriots thread (MOD WARNING - #4503)

Son Of A Vidic · 22-10-2012 12:03am

I don't know about the rest of ye, but I'm getting pretty sick of all this will they won't they business every week. Week 7 and this team should be getting into the groove now at this stage.

kryogen · 22-10-2012 12:11am

Bothered, yes, worried, well, no because we should make the play offs comfortably tbh and if the team is in some sort of process where it is going to be coming to its peak from the play offs onward (like the Giants do regularly) then I will struggle through the season as a big ball of nervous energy happily!

Once we get our TE's fully fit the offence will be much more consistent, Hernandez is clearly nowhere near 100% for example, Welker needs to be involved more I feel though, and as always, for me, the lack of a genuine deep threat does hamstring the team as the opponents can squeeze the field more

The secondary is shambolic, there is no other word for it and it is a real black mark against BB imo. The D line has come up with some great plays already this season but anytime the ball goes toward the secondary we are ****ed basically, you can almost always guarantee that if they go long it will be a big catch or a pass interference call on the secondary.

A win is a win I guess. So important not to lose this one, hopefully the team can kick on, the Rams should not pose too much of a problem either and give a couple of guys more snaps and hopefully time to recover a bit more from the injuries they are carrying.

me89 · 22-10-2012 12:25am

Well that really was hard work but happy to get the win in the end, second half was poor again and at 23-13 you just knew we were going to keep going 3 and out to let them back into it..

Roll on next week:D

Son Of A Vidic · 22-10-2012 12:59am

Worryingly the Brady - Lloyd connection isn't really happening right now. Brady targeted Lloyd 8 times during the game and Lloyd had only one reception for 6 yards. That's just not good enough, he was never going to be a Moss but I expected him to have at least 3-4 TD's in the bag at this point in the season.

PeterStrauss The Second · 22-10-2012 4:13am

missed the game tonight. anyone where I can watch it online tomorrow?

any answers greatly accepted lads!

bruschi · 22-10-2012 7:14am

Corvus Maximus wrote: »

Worryingly the Brady - Lloyd connection isn't really happening right now. Brady targeted Lloyd 8 times during the game and Lloyd had only one reception for 6 yards. That's just not good enough, he was never going to be a Moss but I expected him to have at least 3-4 TD's in the bag at this point in the season.

he hasnt targeted him much tho in the endzone has he? I can only think of maybe 2 or 3 times that he has had a chance of a TD, and most were on long 30 yard type passes where its never a guarantee. Thought Lloyd was average though last night, just wonder if his shoulder was worse after last week than being said. he dropped a few that he has been making in previous weeks. I'm not too worried about their syncing, although I too would prefer to see more TDs but brady seems to have preferential targets when he gets near the goalline and at the moment, Lloyd is not one of them.

as for last nights game, again, we nearly let it slip when the ball is in our posession and with us to win the game. got lucky in that one, which makes a change after the 3 narrow losses.

Son Of A Vidic · 22-10-2012 8:39am

PeterStrauss The Second wrote: »

missed the game tonight. anyone where I can watch it online tomorrow?

any answers greatly accepted lads!

Aside from Gamepass I don't really know, now if you have Sky Sports they will be replaying the game later today on Sky Sports 4. It's on from 14.00 - 16.00hrs and then later on at 23.00 - 01.00hrs.

Now if you don't have Sky, you can always call around to a mate who has Sky. And just 'accidentally' to sit on the remote, that just happened to flick on to the game coverage.:D

PeterStrauss The Second · 22-10-2012 8:42am

Corvus Maximus wrote: »

Aside from Gamepass I don't really know, now if you have Sky Sports they will be replaying the game later today on Sky Sports 4. It's on from 14.00 - 16.00hrs and then later on at 23.00 - 01.00hrs.

Now if you don't have Sky, you can always call around to a mate who has Sky. And just 'accidentally' to sit on the remote, that just happened to flick on to the game coverage.:D

Cheers mate that's perfect have sky sports so can catch it at 2, thanks!

Son Of A Vidic · 22-10-2012 8:51am

PeterStrauss The Second wrote: »

Cheers mate that's perfect have sky sports so can catch it at 2, thanks!

Glad to be a help and prepare to be annoyed though. In fact, in keeping with the Pats form this season, you will experience every emotion while watching it.

Son Of A Vidic · 22-10-2012 9:04am

bruschi wrote: »

he hasnt targeted him much tho in the endzone has he? I can only think of maybe 2 or 3 times that he has had a chance of a TD, and most were on long 30 yard type passes where its never a guarantee. Thought Lloyd was average though last night, just wonder if his shoulder was worse after last week than being said. he dropped a few that he has been making in previous weeks. I'm not too worried about their syncing, although I too would prefer to see more TDs but brady seems to have preferential targets when he gets near the goalline and at the moment, Lloyd is not one of them.

as for last nights game, again, we nearly let it slip when the ball is in our posession and with us to win the game. got lucky in that one, which makes a change after the 3 narrow losses.

No he hasn't really targeted him in the endzone/redzone alright. Whether that's down to Brady going for men who have delivered or something else, I suppose we won't really know. The shoulder might be an issue, but he can't use that as an excuse for letting some of the balls slip through his hands yesterday.

A couple of time this season Brady has throwing some perfect deep balls and Brandon hesitated on the early part of his route, ending up missing the pass. Where if he had have just kept going he would have made the catch. Then there have been one or two passes overthrown which looked like Brady wasn't confident that Brandon would get there.

The frustrating thing is, we've all seen him make circus catches this season that no other receiver could make. It was a bad day at the office yesterday and hopefully he'll put that behind him. I'm kinda hoping that when/hopefully they really do click on the deep balls. There could be a floodgate opened up.

Dohnny Jepp · 22-10-2012 9:15am

I haven't really watched the patriots this year, other than highlights and redzone. How is brady playing in comparison to other years?
I see he has passed for more yardage than any other QB but with less td's. Is that down to him or the recievers or play calling.

I'm just waiting for that day when all of a sudden manning/brady/lewis start looking old.

Son Of A Vidic · 22-10-2012 10:37am

Dohnny Jepp wrote: »

I haven't really watched the patriots this year, other than highlights and redzone. How is brady playing in comparison to other years?
I see he has passed for more yardage than any other QB but with less td's. Is that down to him or the recievers or play calling.

Well his stats are excellent as usual...

Week 7 2012 - 2104Yds with a 65.3% completion rate, 3 interceptions and thrown 12 TD's.

Total team rushing TD's @ week 7 = 10

Now compare with 2011...

Week 7 2011 - 2361Yds with a 67% completion rate, 8 interceptions and thrown 18 TD's.

Total team rushing TD's @ week 7 = 5

Passing TD's are down, but our rushing TD's have doubled for the same period last year. Brady has obviously thrown less TD's simply because there is a obvious focus this season on a balanced offense. If we learned any lesson from the SB defeat, it was that we need a strong ground game to vary our attack and to control and manage the clock better.

So considering the focus on rushing game, I think Brady's passing yardage so far is pretty excellent. He's on course for a 4600 - 4800 Yards season. This time last season he had thrown 8 Int's (4 in the Bills game:(), where as this year he has only thrown 3 Int's.

Dohnny Jepp wrote: »

I'm just waiting for that day when all of a sudden manning/brady/lewis start looking old.

Well Lewis will be first to go, he's out for the season and it's gonna be tough for him to get back next year. But he's a tough old nut and I can't see him going out on that triceps injury play.

Manning is in great form, but is it a swansong season? I think he'll be around for next year but after that it's hard to know.

Our boy Brady, well providing he stays injury free you don't need to be panicking. The guy really looks after himself, is a model professional and always has been. Even during the offseason the guy scientifically controls his diet down to the smallest detail.

Brady is going to be delivering for another 5 years at least and I won't be surprised if he break records for the longest playing successful franchise QB. Even Kraft said as much two weeks ago during an interview.

Danger_dave1 · 22-10-2012 1:20pm

Corvus Maximus wrote: »

Brady is going to be delivering for another 5 years at least and I won't be surprised if he break records for the longest playing successful franchise QB. Even Kraft said as much two weeks ago during an interview.

Can i have lend of your crystal ball ? Also is it not more likely that his level of play will decrease with age ? Not improve?

Sidenote: Not attacking Brady here, the guys record speaks for itself, but shouldn't it be a worry that his level of play could slip ?

Son Of A Vidic · 22-10-2012 3:48pm

Danger_dave1 wrote: »

Can i have lend of your crystal ball ?

No need for the sarcastic tone there. Just to glimpse at what I said earlier...

Corvus Maximus wrote: »

Our boy Brady, well providing he stays injury free you don't need to be panicking. The guy really looks after himself, is a model professional and always has been. Even during the offseason the guy scientifically controls his diet down to the smallest detail. Brady is going to be delivering for another 5 years at least and I won't be surprised if he break records for the longest playing successful franchise QB. Even Kraft said as much two weeks ago during an interview.

Staying health is the key, because his focus and drive is as strong as ever. He is still first in and last out in the evenings for training, team meetings and film review.When he celebrated his 35th birthday during training camp, he was swarmed by journalist. Everyone one of them to a man (& woman) commented on Brady's youthful enthusiasm and love of the game being as strong as ever. His focus and professionalism is as meticulous as ever. So for me the only issue is staying healthy.

Danger_dave1 wrote: »

Also is it not more likely that his level of play will decrease with age ? Not improve?

Of course that will eventually happen, the question is when though? I'm just confident he'll be able to keep his production up for at least the next 5 years.
And where did I say anything about improving? Nope, mentioned nothing about improving. All he needs to do is maintain his current level and keep consistent.

Danger_dave1 wrote: »

: Not attacking Brady here, the guys record speaks for itself, but shouldn't it be a worry that his level of play could slip ?

But that's a worry for any player of any age. Again staying health is a big help here. When Tom Martinez died, Brady lost his career long time personal coach. Who worked on his throwing mechanics since high school. The media reckoned Brady didn't need anyone else, because his throwing mechanics are close to perfection.

But Brady hooks up with Tom House (also coaches Brees) as his new throwing mechanics coach. So you see it's that continuing quest for perfection, to always improve himself and not rest on his laurels. That's what separates the great from the good. That's why I have such confidence in the man

Chucky the tree · 22-10-2012 4:42pm

I'd be amazed if Brady is still playing to a good standard into his 40's.

taidghbaby · 22-10-2012 4:52pm

IMO Brady still throws the hardest short to intermediate throw in the NFL! He rifles it in there!! If he can keep that then he has the brain and work ethic to stay near the top of the QB rankings for the next few years!

Danger_dave1 · 22-10-2012 4:57pm

I wouldn't it past Brady to play for another 2 or 3 years at a good level. But its just as probable that his performances will degrade with age.

Its worry for a player of any age yes, but we see it with quarterbacks they hit a certain point of no return and its generally in there mid to late 30's . You can't just dismiss his age.

I would disagree he'll keep up his level for 5 more years. I just can't see that.

Sidenote : apologies if you took offence to first comment, its just you seem very sure for 5 year gap and well its football doubt you can look into the future that much.

Son Of A Vidic · 22-10-2012 5:24pm

Danger_dave1 wrote: »

I would disagree he'll keep up his level for 5 more years. I just can't see that.

I'll talk to you in 5 years then.:D

Son Of A Vidic · 22-10-2012 5:32pm

Danger_dave1 wrote: »

apologies if you took offence to first comment, its just you seem very sure for 5 year gap and well its football doubt you can look into the future that much.

No bother and it's nice to see some decency in this forum for a change. I'm only basing my certainty on him staying healthy of course. There are no guarantees but I'm looking on the bright side. When it comes to the mental prep, focus and just plain will then he has that sown up. Him and Peyton stand alone in that facet of the game.

He's always tweaking his game and no doubt he'll keep doing that as he gets older. A lot of Pros sit back and a fall into old habits, but that's one pitfall he has always avoided. So it will stand to him in the long run I feel.

BizzyC · 23-10-2012 11:11am

I dont see Brady being the same in 5 years.

Could he be starting, yes.
Will he be as good as he is now, no.

Everyone slows down with age, look at Ray Lewis this year.
He's the same Ray, smart as always, but his body can no longer keep up.

Son Of A Vidic · 23-10-2012 11:58am

BizzyC wrote: »

I dont see Brady being the same in 5 years.

Could he be starting, yes.
Will he be as good as he is now, no.

Everyone slows down with age, look at Ray Lewis this year.
He's the same Ray, smart as always, but his body can no longer keep up.

Comparing Ray Lewis to Brady is like comparing a wrecking ball to a Ferrari, they are two totally different animals. Lewis has made a career as a human battering ram, Brady, well he's a QB isn't he. The highly impact physicality of Lewis's career is now catching up him. But If you want to draw comparisons, then surely you should use a QB to do so.

BizzyC wrote: »

He's the same Ray, smart as always, but his body can no longer keep up.

Wear and tear and that's because he has crashed into opponents all his career. A role which no QB performs. Brady or any QB faces nothing like the physical demands on their body that Lewis has to/had to go through. So it's therefore natural to conclude that as a result of this, Brady should have more longevity in his career.

Another important factor is the playing style of QB here. Brady is the master in the pocket, ice cool, never panicking and he never needed to rely on an ability to run or flee from the pocket like a lot of QB's do. Which again makes his age much less of an issue. Because an ability to flee the pocket and mobility aren't an issue for him and never have been.

Now compare a young guy like Cam, if he doesn't get destroyed one one of his runs in the next ten years I'll amazed. His style will be seriously affected with age. Because he just won't be able to continue playing like that.

SixtyTwo · 23-10-2012 12:15pm

I find it odd that people are quick to dismiss a guy like Brady last up into his 40's when you had a guy like Brett Favre do it and still play at a high level. Favre took a pasting for most of his career, 10 times more hits than Brady but yet people are quick to put down Brady.

I actually believe if any of the modern NFL QBs can stay healthy and are still able to workout at a high level there is no reason why none of them can't go until 40. It is after all the most protected position on the field and some of these guys take minimal contact compared to practically every other bar the kicker and punter.

Sure injuries and age will have a major play but if a modern QB can stay fit and keep himself relatively healthy no reason why they cant give high performances into their late 30's.

BizzyC · 23-10-2012 12:23pm

Favre played at a high level, but it was definitely below where he was at his best, that's the point I'm making.

In 5 years I think Brady could still be a good QB, but he wont be MVP material any longer.
To think someone in their 40's will still be at the top of the sport is unrealistic.

SixtyTwo · 23-10-2012 12:31pm

BizzyC wrote: »

Favre played at a high level, but it was definitely below where he was at his best, that's the point I'm making.

In 5 years I think Brady could still be a good QB, but he wont be MVP material any longer.
To think someone in their 40's will still be at the top of the sport is unrealistic.

I think everyone will agree that he wont be Top of the sport or MVP but there is no reason if healthy why they can't churn out high performances. Granted they probably wont be as consistent in past times or at their peak but I still believe a guy who practically these days is untouchable and at this point using minimal contact can still perform at a high level into his late 30's and real early 40's.

SK1979 · 23-10-2012 12:37pm

I think there are so many unknowns here that its impossible to say with any certainty. While the QB's are protected like mad, there are still instances where they can get hurt. I think it was Locker a couple of weeks ago and he got absolutely blasted by someone while he was in the backfield (think he got blind-sided). I would definitely of been worried if that hit was made on a 40 year old QB. Obviously, the answer there was that a decent OL would stop that hit but it can happen.

I obviously hope Brady stays healthy and fit for another 5+ years but I do think its far from certain that he can.

Son Of A Vidic · 23-10-2012 12:38pm

SixtyTwo wrote: »

I find it odd that people are quick to dismiss a guy like Brady last up into his 40's when you had a guy like Brett Favre do it and still play at a high level. Favre took a pasting for most of his career, 10 times more hits than Brady but yet people are quick to put down Brady.

Shortly before his retirement, Favre threw for a career high 36 completions for 446 yards, 2TD's and coming back from a 14 point deficit to beat the Cardinals 27-24 in overtime.

One hit too many and a bad concussion ended his career. But finally, that's a good comparison there you made. Favre certainly never looked after himself the way Brady has during his career so far.

taidghbaby · 23-10-2012 1:02pm

SK1979 wrote: »

I think there are so many unknowns here that its impossible to say with any certainty. While the QB's are protected like mad, there are still instances where they can get hurt. I think it was Locker a couple of weeks ago and he got absolutely blasted by someone while he was in the backfield (think he got blind-sided). I would definitely of been worried if that hit was made on a 40 year old QB. Obviously, the answer there was that a decent OL would stop that hit but it can happen.

I obviously hope Brady stays healthy and fit for another 5+ years but I do think its far from certain that he can.

Hypothetically speaking (and I'm not being a smart arse here btw) Brady could be hit by a bus in the morning and that could be the end of him!

I think if we base our predictions on Brady not picking up any serious injuries (I know it's impossible to predict), then the question is does Brady have the tools to keep playing to a high level until he's 40! From what I've seen then the answer is definitely yes!

Son Of A Vidic · 23-10-2012 1:50pm

taidghbaby wrote: »

I think if we base our predictions on Brady not picking up any serious injuries (I know it's impossible to predict), then the question is does Brady have the tools to keep playing to a high level until he's 40! From what I've seen then the answer is definitely yes!

I unwittingly started all this off yesterday, but I did emphasize all along the importance of Brady staying healthy. I just hope I haven't jinxed him now.:(

taidghbaby · 23-10-2012 2:40pm

Corvus Maximus wrote: »

I unwittingly started all this off yesterday, but I did emphasize all along the importance of Brady staying healthy. I just hope I haven't jinxed him now.:(

Incidentally when do you think bellichek will put into place a succession plan? Is there one already, I.e. are one of your backup QBs ready to take over? If last year thought us anything putting all of you eggs into one (albeit a future hall of fame one) basket is not a great idea!

Son Of A Vidic · 23-10-2012 4:05pm

Tb I know you were talking about QB's, but I broke your question into 2 and also looked at a potential future Head Coach also.

taidghbaby wrote: »

Incidentally when do you think bellichek will put into place a succession plan?

From a Head Coach perspective it's hard to know if he has one already. But If anyone has one it's him. McDaniels is his No. 2 at the moment, I gave out stinks about him in the match week thread on Sunday. I suppose I was overreacting and angry at the continuing stuttering on offense. I read Eagle Eye's post about McDaniels later and it gave me some perspective. He did his best work with the Pats before he left and now he's back. In a lot of ways his career mirrors Belichick's. BB's first head coaching job didn't exactly set the world on fire. Backroom issues didn't help him but the learning experience was invaluable. McDaniels has had a similar experience I feel.

His desire to develop a strong run game is the right thing to do. Having no run game and lacking the ability to manage the clock cost us dearly in the 07 & 11 SB's. As EE said, this season in many ways is a restructuring process and a period of getting reacquainted for Josh. I think he has the talent to take over some day from BB. And I think a lot of Pats fans think McDaniels has come back to his natural home. The next season or two will determine whether he is our future leader or not.

taidghbaby wrote: »

are one of your backup QBs ready to take over? If last year thought us anything putting all of you eggs into one (albeit a future hall of fame one) basket is not a great idea!

Not a nice lesson to learn alright, we were fortunate to have Brady when Bledsoe went down all those years ago. Oh he wasn't the finished article but look what he became. Mallett is next in line and I was delighted when he got promoted. He was definitely a steal for the Pats in his draft year. His talent is beyond question and fúck he has a tremendous arm.

He's a same pocket style QB like Brady and I could see a huge improvement in him from this preseason to last. He was simply commanding at times during the preseason, he looked like a natural leader and you could see the effect that a year under Brady was having on him. As much as I liked Hoyer, Mallett just showed him up unfortunately and looked more decisive.

I noticed some nice little things in the offseason. Like when the pocket collapsed he threw some nice last second feints/side steps to evade the sack. He kept focused on his target and delivered the pass. It had Brady written all over it. I think he could step up and do a very good job if Brady is gone.

Mallett strikes me as the kinda of guy that would grow in strength and stature when he gets a groove going. He has grown up a lot since he joined the Pats, even in the way he carries himself and dresses. Is Brady replaceable? No. Is Peyton replaceable? No. Then again, Those guys are just in a different stratosphere really.

My only concern for Mallett is Brady's potential longevity. No doubt other teams will come sniffing around, if Brady keeps playing for another 5 years and beyond. So hanging on to him might be the difficult part. Then again, if he's happy to stay under Brady wing, he'll be more than ready when Brady steps aside.

taidghbaby · 23-10-2012 10:24pm

Hold is Mallet? Or more importantly how old will he be in 4/5 years time? I don't know if I'd be overly happy to have my backup be....well happy being a backup! I know he's sitting there learning from a great but let's be honest the big bucks are in being a starter not a backup and one of the things you want in a QB is ambition and the desire to be a starter! Again I don't know Mallet personally so maybe he has these traits in abundance! I'm not saying Mallet would be wrong to sit there and wait for a few more years, but I want my QB to want to be the centre of attention on a Sunday afternoon now!
Funnily enough there may not be a huge market out there for him! When you look at the experiences of the Seahawks with Flynn and to a lesser extent the chiefs with Cassell, I think teams may be a bit more cautious offering big contacts to backups that only have a handful of starts! Also as this year shows in particular QBs are coming out of college ready to go and teams are more than happy to put them in from day one!!

So the question is who do you think will be harder to replace: Brady or Bellichek? I'd say Bill will be harder! I hear what your saying about McDaniels being the heir apparent, but I'd be surprised how much of a control he has (in the philosophy anyway) of the offense! I'd still say that Bellichek is the main man, and makes all the key decisions! Luckily for ye I don't see Bellichek stepping down any time soon!!

BizzyC · 24-10-2012 6:31am

I dont think Mallet will be a viable succession plan for Brady.
As a backup he's a great option, but at some point he needs to play and he'll be waiting too long in New England, barring a devastating injury to Brady. (touch wood)

I think that bringing in a veteran QB to fill a gap temporarily is the most likely option, unless we pick up another good QB prospect in the draft a few years down the line.
We saw when Brady went down, McDaniels doesn't need a HOF QB to win 11 games...

Son Of A Vidic · 24-10-2012 8:19am

taidghbaby wrote: »

Hold is Mallet? Or more importantly how old will he be in 4/5 years time?

Mallett is 24 so if Brady plays for another 4-5 years, he'll be 28-29 when/if he takes over. Staying healthy and playing well, he could conceivably lead the franchise for a decade. The league is full of young starter QB's right now. But those franchise haven't got the luxury of not starting them really. It will be down to Mallett at the end of the day, to either bide his time or look to move on. My gut tells me he is more than happy with his lot right now. If things do change though, I think it will come from the front office side rather than Mallett himself.

Like Brady, Belichick is totally irreplaceable. And your right about Belichek not going anywhere for the foreseeable future. I see the Belichick-McDaniels relationship as being similar to the Brady-Mallett one. Both are in a great position to pick the brains of two greats and both should be in a great position when Tom and Bill decide to step down. Personally I think it's always better to groom an heir from inside the ranks of an organisation, rather than bringing a new face in and upsetting a successful formula.

Son Of A Vidic · 24-10-2012 9:11am

Who said Bill never smiles (well not for the media anyway). Love this shot after Ninkovich won the game with his big play against the Jets.

SixtyTwo · 26-10-2012 2:40pm

Hernandez out Sunday

eagle eye · 26-10-2012 9:54pm

Hernandez injury is a worry, he didn't look himself the last two weeks and now goes down again.

Ras IR Dowling is gone on IR again, guy is a china doll.

Last time we lost the home opener and the last time we had this much trouble at CB and struggles with one of our top two TEs(Watson went on IR) we won the Superbowl.

Mike912 · 26-10-2012 10:18pm

I was at the Jets game, pretty good seats too which were none of my doing. Hernandez was visibly limping on and off the field, must have really reached down to run his routes. This week off, and next with the bye, hopefully will help his recovery. One of my few issues with Belichick is the importance he places on regular season games. Why not give Aaron a few extra weeks off to get 100% healthy? Why not give Gronk the time he needs to fully overcome his hip? Gear the season towards the post season Bill, would be my advice.

In the little time I've seen Ras on the field, it's obvious the guy is a special athlete. The guy just looks fast and agile. I could do without the histrionics after he makes a play however, but when he's in, he does cover well. We all know Bill has a short fuse for china dolls, Ras' days might be numbered.

Lastly, CM mentioned Vereen a while ago. Similar to Ras, Vereen looked very head and shoulders above the typical NFL'er during the Jets game, explosive quickness. Here's hoping he's not another china doll.

Son Of A Vidic · 30-10-2012 2:06pm

Just back from the London game and I'm now 16-0 home and away for Pats wins

. I'm always happier seeing a game live because TV restricts so much and you miss a lot. I was so annoyed when we gave away that soft TD to the Rams, but in fairness to Dennard and Wilson they were excellent after that, each picking off an Int each.

I'm happier with McCourty at Safety and Dennard filling his CB slot. Even though CB is McCourty's position of choice, I think he's much better at Safety and it certainly looked like it on Sunday.

Hightower and Jones were immense yet again. Cunningham is a different player this season. The D line did a fantastic jobs and watching Wilfork hunting down his prey near the sideline was just mind boggling to watch.

Brady was just simply devastating, the O-line were immense and gave him great protection. Chris Long and Robert Quinn have sacked every QB they have faced this season. But they hadn't a chance against Solder and Vollmer, who were just monsters. Amazing when you think how young these guys are.

First time to see the run game in real time and Ridley's running was unbelievable at times. Vereen adds another exciting dynamic and his ability to pull off jump cuts while airborne is impressive to watch.

So having seen the boys playing live in the flesh for the first time this season. I come away impressed by what I saw off camera as much as what was shown on camera. The Rams beat the Seahawks and the Cardinals who were two teams we slipped up against and should have beaten. But most importantly, the Pats looked like they were starting to find their stride on Sunday, which is good news for us and very worrying news for the rest.

Son Of A Vidic · 30-10-2012 8:00pm

An interesting stat and another record sent tumbling by The Patriots. For the 17th straight game the Pats went over 350 yards on total game offense. Their actual game total on the night was 459 yards. That breaks an NFL record set by the Rams in 1999-2000.

SixtyTwo · 31-10-2012 7:31pm

Corvus Maximus wrote: »

Just back from the London game and I'm now 16-0 home and away for Pats wins . I'm always happier seeing a game live because TV restricts so much and you miss a lot. I was so annoyed when we gave away that soft TD to the Rams, but in fairness to Dennard and Wilson they were excellent after that, each picking off an Int each.

Wish I could say the same Im 12-4 with Pats games Home and away

. Hoping to make 14-4 in December going to see 49ers and Fish games in Gillette.

I'm happier with McCourty at Safety and Dennard filling his CB slot. Even thought CB is McCourty's position of choice, I think he's much better at Safety and it certainly looked like it on Sunday.

Im glad we finally pushed McCourty to safety. I think he makes better decisions there and hopefully he gets more consistent as time goes on.

Hightower and Jones were immense yet again. Cunningham is a different player this season. The D line did a fantastic jobs and watching Wilfork hunting down his prey near the sideline was just mind boggling to watch.

These two added with Wilfork Ninkovich and Mayo have truly made our front 7 great to watch. Even Spikes is getting in on the act he gets better as the games go on. Looking more and more consistent. Our front 7 our exciting to watch again. More Blitzes also please Bill.

Brady was just simply devastating, the O-line were immense and gave him great protection. Chris Long and Robert Quinn have sacked every QB they have faced this season. But they hadn't a chance against Solder and Vollmer, who were just monsters. Amazing when you think how young these guys are.

Great to see our Oline kick into gear finally. Hopefully these are positive signs for when we play the tougher teams especially the playoffs.

First time to see the run game in real time and Ridley's running was unbelievable at times. Vereen adds another exciting dynamic and his ability to pull off jump cuts while airborne is impressive to watch.

Love Shane Vereen. I said it last year the kid would be a key to our offense and hopefully now all his injuries are behind him. Him and Ridley will make a great tendem in that backfield.

So having seen the boys playing live in the flesh for the first time this season. I come away impressed by what I saw off camera as much as what was shown on camera. The Rams beat the Seahawks and the Cardinals who were two teams we slipped up against and should have beaten. But most importantly, the Pats looked like they were starting to find their stride on Sunday, which is good news for us and very worrying news for the rest.

I have to say though as great as the win was I am still not convinced. I do feel the Rams were awful on Sunday and as good as we looked the Rams didn't help themselves at all. I am hoping I am wrong but for me its key to see out the regular season and do our business in the playoffs and hopefully between now and then the team proves me wrong and then destroys in the playoffs.

SixtyTwo · 31-10-2012 9:58pm

Pats just waived Sterling Moore. Have to say Im shocked at this move.

http://www.weei.com/sports/boston/this-just-in/21237691/report-pats-waive-cb-moore-add-two-others

The Patriots waived cornerback Sterling Moore and signed defensive back Derrick Martin and linebacker Mike Rivera on Wednesday, according to ESPN Boston.

The 5-foot-10, 190-pound Moore, who was signed by the Patriots last October, became a regular part of New England's secondary rotation in 2011, eventually playing a key role in the Patriots' win in the AFC title game when he knocked a pass away from Ravens receiver Lee Evans. The 22-year-old has 13 tackles, one pass defensed and one forced fumble in eight games this season.

Martin and Rivera both have previous connections to the Patriots. The 27-year-old Martin, who has been in the league for six seasons, signed with the Patriots on Aug. 4, but was released on Aug. 31 prior to the start of the regular season. The 5-foot-10, 198-pound defensive back had 12 tackles in 14 games last season for the Giants. As for Rivera, the 6-foot-2, 255-pounder out of Kansas was signed to the Patriots' practice squad last November, but the 26-year-old was released in September after seeing limited action on special teams.

Son Of A Vidic · 31-10-2012 11:13pm

SixtyTwo wrote: »

Wish I could say the same Im 12-4 with Pats games Home and away . Hoping to make 14-4 in December going to see 49ers and Fish games in Gillette.

Two games in December? Ya greedy fecker.

SixtyTwo wrote: »

Im glad we finally pushed McCourty to safety. I think he makes better decisions there and hopefully he gets more consistent as time goes on.

Watching McCourty on Sunday and seeing him spot plays and call out formations he spotted on the offense, tells me he's better off playing safety. I think Chung is finished, aside from being very poor at times this season, there is just no improvement in his persistent fragility. It's his final year and I think he'll do well to get an extension.

SixtyTwo wrote: »

Wilfork Ninkovich and Mayo have truly made our front 7 great to watch. Even Spikes is getting in on the act he gets better as the games go on. Looking more and more consistent.

The whole D line looks so much more effective this season and more importantly, they look like a good strong brotherly unit. Mayo's tackle rate is crazy, Spikes just keeps making bone shaking hits and Ninkovich is probably not getting the glory he deserves because of how good our rookies have been. I still haven't recovered from seeing Wilfork's devastating tackle over on the sideline on Sunday. I mean it just shouldn't be possible, fecking man-mountain can move like a cheetah.

SixtyTwo wrote: »

Great to see our Oline kick into gear finally. Hopefully these are positive signs for when we play the tougher teams especially the playoffs.

My early season worries about them has passed, they were immense on Sunday and Brady had great protection. The Rams have a very talented front four, but our O line just crushed them. It's the kind of performance Brady needs so he can dismantle a defense. I suppose we shouldn't ever doubt the genius of Coach Scarnecchia.

SixtyTwo wrote: »

Love Shane Vereen. I said it last year the kid would be a key to our offense and hopefully now all his injuries are behind him. Him and Ridley will make a great tendem in that backfield.

Great to see the Patriots run game tearing up the opposition. Our young boys are only going to get better and stronger. Vereen needs to stay fit for the rest of the season though and put those niggling injuries behind him.

SixtyTwo wrote: »

I have to say though as great as the win was I am still not convinced. I do feel the Rams were awful on Sunday and as good as we looked the Rams didn't help themselves at all.

The Rams were comprehensively outplayed in every facet of the game on Sunday. They were just dismantled and simply because the team played at a consistent level throughout the match. We've seen a good quarter here and there so far this season. But this was the first time where they kept it going throughout the game.

counterlock · 01-11-2012 12:05pm

Reports coming out that Rackers and Cundiff are practising with the patriots this week. Thanks but no thanks!

eagle eye · 01-11-2012 1:40pm

Is Gost injured?

SixtyTwo · 01-11-2012 2:10pm

eagle eye wrote: »

Is Gost injured?

Not down on any reports but didn't Bill do the same last year? Probably to keep Gost on his toes.

BizzyC · 01-11-2012 2:46pm

He had a guy in preseason, not mid season....

SixtyTwo · 01-11-2012 2:57pm

Just reading a lot of reports the suggestion has been made that the Pats are looking for a kicker with a deeper leg. In 7 seasons he has only kicked 10 50+ FG and made 7 of them. The 3 kickers we are working out are Gano, Rackers and Cundiff. If we do drop Gost for one of those 3 hopefully its Rackers he is the best of the bad bunch and has a deep leg.

Gost is 17 of 20 right now. Other than the try out kickers in the case of emergency I can't see the Pats dropping him. He doesn't seem to be injured and all the reports are saying the above or its just trying out guys just in case. It also wouldn't surprise me if it was to send a message to Gost that not even his job is safe.

Son Of A Vidic · 01-11-2012 3:06pm

counterlock wrote: »

Reports coming out that Rackers and Cundiff are practising with the patriots this week. Thanks but no thanks!

No thanks indeed, Gostkowski is back to his old reliable self.

SixtyTwo wrote: »

Just reading a lot of reports the suggestion has been made that the Pats are looking for a kicker with a deeper leg. In 7 seasons he has only kicked 10 50+ FG and made 7 of them. The 3 kickers we are working out are Gano, Rackers and Cundiff. If we do drop Gost for one of those 3 hopefully its Rackers he is the best of the bad bunch and has a deep leg.

I don't think it's such an issue for us as it is for other teams. Once again this season we have the leading offense in the NFL. Getting within long range field goal range isn't so much an issue for us. But for other teams with a limited offense, then it's going to be a key area for them.

Gostkowski only kicking 10 long range field goals, says more about our efficiency in moving the chains than anything else I think. And his 70% success rate is pretty impressive in my books.

Gweedling · 01-11-2012 3:13pm

Isn't there a youtube video somewhere of a high school kid kicking 60+ field goals effortlessly? can we have him? I'm in work now so can't get the link but you guys can find it easily enough.

Corvus made a great point, long range field goals usually aren't that big of an issue with us as we've a solid enough offense to push deeper into the red zone.

SixtyTwo · 01-11-2012 3:31pm

Corvus Maximus wrote: »

Gostkowski only kicking 10 long range field goals, says more about our efficiency in moving the chains than anything else I think. And his 70% success rate is pretty impressive in my books.

Well not really. How many times in the past have we needed to get in field goal range but were 50+ yards out and punted or gone for it because Gost hasn't got the leg for it. Not saying I completely buy into the idea of needing a longer kicker but there is some truth to it. As games get harder there might be a case for needing someone who is comfortable kicking 50+ kicks.

For me unlike many Pats fans I really don't think we are out of the woods yet. I really don't think we should be holding the Rams game as us back on track. We have a few tough games coming up and to be honest every score counts and Im sure Im not alone thinking this. It would be nice to know when a game is tight we could kick over 50 yards. Either put faith in Gost to do so or find someone who can.

But I do like Gost and hope he stays his efficient self from now to the playoffs and on into the playoffs. He is a cracking kicker. I do think its more of Bill just trying out kickers just in case and/or letting Gost know your job isn't as safe as you think. Motivation.

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