Patriots training camp has officially gotten underway this week with the first padded practice on Saturday. The first two days seemed like a continuation of the OTA’s with no pads, and Brady had the day off on Friday. Danny Etling went from quarterback to receiver, and we got to see rookie quarterback Jarrett Stidham in action. He threw lots interceptions to start, but that’s to be expected. Sony Michel made his return to practice on Saturday, and Brady was also back on the field Saturday too.
— Bauston Diehards đ âžđđâ˝ (@BaustonDiehards) July 27, 2019
A TB12 Moss reunion
On a downside, Brady was 0-4 on 11-11s today. It’s going to take some time to get used to his new receivers. Also having Edelman out with his thumb injury doesn’t help either. However, Brady has worked out with rookie receiver N’Keal Harry before the start of camp, and we’ll start to see the connection Brady and Harry have on the field now in camp. Harry could be a factor in the red zone, though, because of his size at receiver. With Gronkowskiâs retirement, the pressure may be on Harry to make the big play down there. A plus though is Brady and Moss still have it, as you can see from the video below in a flashback to 2007.
We haven’t seen Michael Bennett yet, and the Patriots are saying it’s for a personal issue. You may have to speculate if that means he’s contemplating retirement or not playing for the Patriots. Isaiah Wynn is also still easing his way into football activities. Belichick seems to be having a low key camp, as today’s practice was just over an hour long. He doesn’t want to overwork them with the pads on. Seems like a different Belichick from years past, but who’s complaining? They just won the Super Bowl.
Also on a positive side, the defense looks pretty solid. The secondary in particular is pretty solid with Stephon Gilmore, the McCourty brothers, Terrence Brooks and Duron Harmon. Patrick Chung was also out there, but is wearing a red non-contact jersey until he is fully healthy from his broken arm in the Super Bowl.
Tom Brady is entering his 20th season in the NFL, and in a Patriots uniform. His contract with the Patriots ends after the 2019 season and they are completely hush about it. They don’t want to talk about contracts because it can be a distraction. Brady is a very underpaid quarterback in the league and has always taken pay cuts so the Patriots can put money in other places. You will never see that from a player again. As he turns 42 in August, you have to assume the 45 range for Brady would mean a three-year contract.
Brady should get a nice contract to close out his career
Brady got the biggest ovation today as training camp started for the Patriots. Fans gathered to watch the Super Bowl champs take the field, but most of all it’s TB12. Brady has a huge impact on the fan base and organization in general, he’s done a lot for 20 seasons.
Brady’s deal should be at three years and $25 million per season. That puts him there with Drew Brees, Russell Wilson. He won’t get higher than Jimmy Garoppolo, who’s making $27.5 million, because at Brady’s age that would be stupid to pay him that much. There’s also no doubt he will finish his career with the Patriots. There’s no way Kraft will let him go anywhere else anyway.
You will never see a player take less to stay with a team as Brady has. A lot of the players only care about the money. They say they care about winning but don’t show it. Brady is the total opposite, and cares more about winning and Super Bowls than almost anything else. He does deserve a raise after winning his sixth Super Bowl title, and really deserves to go out on top. A three-year deal worth $25 million is perfect to see him hang it up at 45.
Patriots have really made it no secret that they are searching for a top of the line receiver. AJ Brown has made it no secret he wants to be a Patriot. AJ could be this yearâs most complete receiver, and he would provide an interesting and exciting twist to the slot position. A bigger slot receiver makes a lot of sense after Belichick recently eluded to bigger receivers becoming more valuable in this league. Cornerbacks are starting to get smaller. Playing AJ Brown in the slot position would create some mismatches in man coverage. A receiving group of AJ Brown, Julian Edelman, Josh Gordon, Philip Dorsett and Demaryius Thomas would be a very solid one.
31 (Cowboys) *Originally LAR
Johnathan Abram S Mississippi State
Trade details: Cowboys trade 58th, 165th and next yearâs second round pick for Rams 31st
Rams want draft picks. They donât have many. Cowboys do not have a first round pick and although rumors are not swirling that they want to trade up, it makes sense. Jerry Jones loves first round draft picks. In fact, tell me what sounds more Jerry Jones than making a huge splash by trading into the first round, to grab a player that could be the best at his position, in which the Cowboys have a need for. Abram would immediately start for the Cowboys, serving as a linebacker at the safety position. Abramâs coverage skills may have itâs questions but he can hit hard, make tackles real well, and use his ball skills to get Dak Prescott and the offense on the field as much as possible. Abram to Dallas makes perfect sense.
30 (Packers)
Noah Fant TE Iowa
Packers miss out on T.J Hockenson but they still land Noah Fant. This news will make Aaron Rodgers happy. Fant is probably the best receiver out of the trio of Hockenson, Smith, and himself. Fant could learn a few things from Jimmy Graham and pair up with him to make Rodgerâs life a whole lot easier. If the Packers pick Fant, Rodgerâs fantasy value gets a huge boost.
29 (Chiefs)
Amani Oruwariye CB Penn State
Amani Oruwariye. This guy will be hated by three groups of people. He will be hated by quarterbacks for his ability, offensive coordinators for the same reason, and commentators for being forced to pronounce that name of his. Chiefs will love him though. Chiefs need corners. Patriot fans know how bad the Chiefs secondary was last year. Amani Oruwariye will help change that. Amani has no problem helping in run support and can cover some of the bigger receivers in the NFL. Look for him to cover Josh Gordon or Demayrius Thomas in the AFC Championship.
28 (Patriots) *Originally LAC
T.J. Hockenson TE Iowa
Trade details: Patriots trade 56th, 73rd and next yearâs 3rd round pick to Chargers for 28th
SPLASH! Hockenson will fall farther than most people think. Primarily due to the Packers decision to wait, he slides all the way to #28 where the Patriots leapfrog the Packers second pick to get him. Hockenson is a unique talent that does not come around to often at the tight end position. Forget Irv Smith, forget Noah Fant, forget everyone else. Do this thing right, go get the tight end of the future Bill! Go ahead and call me crazy, Hockenson will be a surprise faller in the draft, much like Derwin James and Tremaine Edmunds last year.
27 (Raiders)
Joshua Jacobs RB Alabama
This remodeled Raiders team still misses a three-down runningback. This extremely weak runningback class might have just one great back in it. Joshua Jacobs might not be available come the Raiders second round pick. It might be safer to grab the guy now and sure up that backfield.
26 (Colts)
Christian Wilkins IDL Clemson
By disregarding the tight end position, Christian Wilkins is the best remaining player on the board. Wilkins can be the leader of this defensive line and defense all together. One year removed from landing both Quentin Nelson and Darius Leonard, these drafts would be considered back to back bangs for the Colts by now picking Christian Wilkins. Wilkins, a Massachusetts native would provide not just leadership but also versatility and a very high motor.
25 (Eagles)
Nasir Adderley S Delaware
Nasir or Abram could both easily go here. Adderley might be a better fit in the City of Love. Nasir gets knocked for playing in a small-school program. Small-school programs are not a problem in Philly. Just ask their part-time quarterback Carson Wentz. Jim Schwartz likes his defensive backs with cornerback experience, which Adderley has a lot. In fact, Philly makes the most sense for this talented, small-school prospect.
24 (Raiders)
DeAndre Baker CB Georgia
Raiders fill another position of need here, taking DeAndre Baker. A very solid player with a starting grade on him. Baker will fit in well and be an anchor at one of the corner spots in Oakland.
23 (Texans)
Andre Dillard OT Washington State
Texans have no compliments about this pick here. Some scouts like Dillard better than they like Ford or Williams, primarily because he will be a pure tackle in the NFL. Texans need to protect DeShaun Watson badly. Dillard can be plugged right in to the starting lineup and alleviate some of the issues with this offensive line.
22 (Ravens)
Marquise Brown WR Oklahoma
When making this pick, the Ravens have to be conscious of Lamar Jacksonâs less than mediocre throwing ability. None the less, Marquise Brown has the potential to be a Pro Bowl receiver. He frequently draws comparisons to DeSean Jackson. A better comp might be someone who just left Baltimore, John Brown. Marquise Brown, Antonio Brownâs cousin (too many Browns here), will thrive in a role much like John Brownâs was. Pencil in Marquise Brown, Antonio Brownâs cousin, to fill the absence of John Brown and make teams like the Browns have headaches.
21 (Browns) *Originally SEA
Chauncey Gardner-Johnson S Florida
Trade details: Browns trade 49th, 119th and next yearâs second round pick to Seattle for 21st and next yearâs sixth round pick
Browns are rumored to be actively looking to trade back into the first round. The Seahawks are looking to trade down. Browns have both needs at cornerback and safety. Gardner-Johnson can play both. While he will probably play safety at the next level, the flexibility really helps his case to go to Cleveland. Gardner-Johnson will bode well in Clevelandâs secondary that has been famished for good safeties.
20 (Steelers)
Devin Bush Jr. LB Michigan
NO BRAINER. The Steelers and Devin Bush have been linked to each other ever since this whole evaluation process started. Devin Bush at 20 would be a steal for anyone but for a team so desperate for linebackers like the Steelers, it would be an act of god. The tackle machine would bring a big boost to a team that has been crippled by the unfortunate long term injury of Ryan Shazier.
19 (Titans)
D.K. Metcalf WR Mississippi
Oh boy! How can someone pass up a talent like DK Metcalf at 19? Even more, think of how happy Marcus Mariota would be to have Metcalf and Corey Davis paired together. For those who don’t know DK Metcalf, he is 6’3, 230 pounds. He has 34 7/8â arms and 9 7/8â hands. He ran a 4.33 40 yard dash, had 27 reps of 225 pounds, and had a 40.5″ vertical leap. He is an absolute freakish human who could probably even play tight end. He may not be the most complete, true receiver, but he will make good as the Titans’ number two receiver and make Marcus Mariota very happy.
18 (Vikings)
Garrett Bradbury IOL NC State
This pick makes a lot of sense. Bradbury stands as the clear top inside lineman prospect. He can play both center and guard in the NFL. With Pat Elflein struggling at center last year, all signs would point to shifting him to guard and moving Bradbury inside. This would bode well for Dalvin Cook and the Vikings zone run scheme. The Bradbury pick would give the Vikings a lot of options and flexibility on that terrible offensive line.
17 (Giants)
Dwayne Haskins QB Ohio State
Dwayne Haskins makes a lot of sense here at 17. He may not be the most talented in the group but he will hold down the fort in New York. The best comparison around for Haskins has to be Drew Bledsoe. In the right offense, Haskins will thrive and serve as a fabulous game-manager. The Giants’ offense would run through Saqoun Barkley. Haskins would manage the passing game with success and compliment Saqoun nicely.
So, it is true that the Jets could have picked Cody Ford, but the need at corner and the talent of Byron Murphy is a lot to pass up. Instead, the Panthers have an absolute no brainer pick here and take Cody Ford. Panthers desperately need some help on that line. Cam Newton and Christian McCaffery need some help here. Newton needs time to wait for Chris Hogan to get open. Cody Ford will be the guy in Carolina. Ford like Williams might slip inside to guard in the NFL but as of late, that theory has kind of been squashed. Pencil in Ford as a starting tackle for the Carolina Panthers.
15 (Jets) *Originally WAS
Byron Murphy CB Washington
So after trading down, the Jets hoped to draft an edge rusher or offensive tackle. The prospects that they would have hoped to land at this spot are gone however there is no reason to cry about it. Byron Murphy has a lot of scouts really excited. Put Byron Murphy in the same secondary as Jamal Adams and Tramaine Johnson, a hard defense to throw against there.
14 (Falcons)
Jerry Tillery IDL Notre Dame
Another more surprising pick, Jerry Tillery to Atlanta. The frequently underrated defensive line prospect out of Notre Dame continues to be overlooked in this draft process. A combo of Jerry Tillery and Grady Garrett will make opposing offensive coordinators wish their mother never had them. It will be the âNightmare on Peachtree Streetâ. Clogging inside holes, stopping the run, and getting to the quarterback. Missing out on Ed Oliver will quickly become not so big of a deal for Atlanta.
13 (Dolphins)
Jonah Williams OT Alabama
The Dolphins have needs all over the offensive line. For a team headed for a rebuilding year, the smart move would be to build up the line and draft a quarterback next year. That class will be a whole lot stronger and the Dolphins draft choice will probably be a whole lot closer to number one. Pick Jonah Williams. This guy will be an absolute stud at the next level. His future will probably be at guard with his footwork and arms indicating so. However, donât rule out Williams playing tackle. He played tackle in college and played really well. The Dolphins and Williams are perfect for each other because of the flexibility he possesses.
12 (Packers)
Clelin Ferrell EDGE Clemson
Well, this would raise a lot of eyebrows. There are always eyebrow-raisers in the draft. First round last year, Rashaad Penny, Baker Mayfield first overall, the Saints trading for Marcus Davenport, Derwin James and Tremaine Edmunds falling. Point being, the draft is an unpredictable animal. A lot of people think the Packers will go tight end here. Well, they have two first round picks and literally no defensive ends. Defensive ends are now limited and the last remaining one with no big question marks is Clelin Ferrell. They will be able to pick from at least two of the top three tight ends in this draft at #30. They will have much less selection if they wait on pass rusher. The Packers are clamping down on defense this year, focusing on improving that side of the ball. Clelin Ferrell will be the pick here at #12.
11 (Bengals)
Jawaan Taylor OT Florida
Jawaan Taylor just met with the Bengals yesterday. This pick would make a lot of sense. Some of the players who the Bengals could have picked are off the board. This guy here might just be the best tackle in the draft. Bengals have a huge hole at the tackle spot, waiting to be filled. Taylor would at least help the running game. Not quite sure Andy Dalton can possibly be helped at this point. Andy Dalton needs a lot more than help to succeed. Expect Bengals to at least look at quarterback in round two.
10 (Broncos)
Ed Oliver IDL Houston
Half of this pick would be because of Ed Oliver and the other half would be that the Broncos do not appear sold on this quarterback class. This QB class truly is a bad one. The Broncos have Joe Flacco, who can still preform to an okay level. They wait a year, take a player at a position they have a need for, and put Ed Oliver on a line with Von Miller and Bradley Chubb. Very, very dangerous alignment there.
9 (Bills)
Montez Sweat EDGE Mississippi State
Bills draft an edge defender for the same reason the 49ers do. How do you attack quarterbacks like Sam Darnold, Tom Brady, and … Ryan Fitzpatrick (eew gross)? You rush the passer. Montez Sweat can do that real quickly. Sweat set a record in Indianapolis for the fastest defense lineman in combine history. Running a 4.41 at 6â6, 260 pounds is insane. Sweat reminds many of Dee Ford. He would wreak havoc on the AFC East.
8 (Lions)
Greedy Williams CB LSU
A lot of people think the Lions will go tight end here. Cornerback makes the most sense. A combo of Darius Slay and Greedy Williams will be a hard one to throw against. Going tight end would not be smart for a team that for some reason appears to be shaping up for a championship instead of rebuilding. After spending big money on Jesse James, drafting a tight end would put their tight end spending near the top of the league. If they want any shot at a championship, draft a corner to help defend against a pass-happy league.
7 (Jaguars)
Brian Burns EDGE Florida State
Just like the Giants, former Giants coach and current GM of the Jaguars, Tom Coughlin values pass-rushers as well. Brian Burns will be a special talent at the next level. The speed, smarts, and effort are top notch. Burns is a dominant pass-rusher and tremendous athlete. The only drawback, his weight. A few fast food trips will help.
6 (Giants)
Rashan Gary EDGE Michigan
Gary undoubtedly presents some risk at six for the Giants, however, the talent might be too much to pass up. Gary is a talented, elite athlete and plays a position that the Giants have always valued. This move makes sense for New York.
5 (Buccaneers)
Devin White LB LSU
Undoubtedly the best linebacker in this draft provides the most value here at five for the Buccaneers. With Kwon Alexander leaving for San Fran and Kendell Beckwithâs health concerns, it makes sense to draft a linebacker. Not to mention, LaVonte David will be 30 years old soon and could use a very capable, young blood that can be his tackle machine buddy while his career does nothing but wind down. Plus, once White and Bush are gone in round one, the position sees a steep drop off. Better to address that issue now.
4 (Raiders)
Josh Allen EDGE Kentucky
This guy aspires to be Khalil Mack. The Raiders did not pay Khalil Mack top dollar. This guy would not need top dollar money until roughly his fourth year in the league. Raiders take a poor manâs Khalil Mack, or a Mack lite, and find a long-term solution to such a big problem last year. Maybe this guy can become a monster and they can trade him away too.
3 (Redskins) *Originally NYJ
Kyler Murray QB Oklahoma
Trade details: Jets trade 3rd overall, 68th overall, 196th overall, 217th overall and next yearâs sixth round pick to Washington for 15th overall, 46th overall, 227th overall and next yearâs first round pick.
Rumor on the block is that the Jets want desperately to trade back. Redskins desperately need a quarterback and to make a splash. Redskins give up a lot of capital to make this move, but get the guy who could be the best quarterback in the draft. A move like this would be eerily similar to the trade up to get Robert Griffin III a few years back, but would most likely be more successful. The Redskins could do some of the same things they did with RG3 with Kyler. A quarterback of Kylerâs ability would work out a lot better in this system than RG3 did.
2 (49ers)
Nick Bosa EDGE Ohio State
How do you shutdown quarterbacks like Jared Goff? Josh Rosen? And how do you disrupt Russell Wilsonâs rhythm? You rush the passer. How better to attack your division rivals than add Dee Ford and Nick Bosa to your team? Those three teams also have spectacular run games. 49ers bulk up their defensive line to assemble one of the more deadly pass-rushing cores in the league.
1 (Cardinals)
Quinnen Williams IDL Alabama
So, a lot of thought went into this pick. Here is what it boils down to, Cardinals have a quarterback, his name is Josh Rosen. Cardinals pass on their absurd idea to put him up on the auction block for chump change and decide to build a stronger defense. Quinnen is a prospect teams cannot afford to pass up. Cardinals take a position they need to improve on and insert the best player in this draft class into that spot.
Let’s take a look at the latest some Patriots moves and rumors that were surfacing this week. Belichick and the Patriots have been pretty quiet this offseason. However, a few stories this week could help shape this team for next year and years beyond.
Move: The Stephon Gilmore Contract
Thursday, the Patriots reworked Stephon Gilmoreâs contract for 2019.
Gilmore, who was originally scheduled to have a cap hit of $14,837,500, saw $8.5 million dollars worth of his contract get converted into a signing bonus.
Doing this frees up $5.67 million dollars for the Patriots in cap space. The current cap for the Pats is now $8,332,763.
This move should not be the only one for the Patriots as more money will need to come their way. The Patriots still have key free agents like Stephen Gostkowski and Chris Hogan, who remain unsigned.
The Patriots also must compensate for the projected $8,970,997 dollars it will take to sign all their draft picks.
With their cap as it is, expect the Patriots to move some money around with players like Devin McCourty, Tom Brady, and maybe even Rob Gronkowski, Dâonta Hightower, and Lawerence Guy.
Many expect Gostkowski to be back and Hogan looks more likely to return by the day. The Patriots will need at least 6 million in cap for those two signings alone.
Expect them to restructure some contracts, resign some players, and trade a couple of draft picks.
Rumor: Patriots Schedule Meeting With WVU Quarterback Will Grier
The Patriots lack of attention to the quarterback position in this year’s draft might hint what they have planned for next yearâs.
Although, one quarterback prospect who they have scheduled a meeting with is former West Virginia quarterback Will Grier.
Grier, who was in the Heisman conversation for a brief time last year, seems to be moving up draft boards each day.
In fact his pro day was so impressive that he has potentially moved up into late first-round consideration.
Grier makes sense as a potential fit in the Patriots system. In addition, some other quarterbacks that scouts think could come to New England are Daniel Jones of Duke, Brett Rypien of Boise State, and Ryan Finley of North Carolina State.
Rumor: Stephen Gostkowski Resigning Reports
It seems inevitable that the Patriots and veteran kicker Stephen Gostkowski will reach an agreement to reunite.
Now it appears that after the readjustment of Stephon Gilmoreâs contract that the Patriots now have the money to resign their long-tenured kicker.
Tom Curran reported on Thursday that the Patriots and Gostkowski are making progress and are actively talking about a return.
Curran also reported that other teams are interested in Gostkowski. Almost any team would kill for a kicker like Stephen. Although, Gostkowksi’s interest in other teams seem very small and he obviously holds the Patriots as his top destination.
Gostkowski will be entering his fourteenth year in the NFL and will not consider retirement at this time.
Most expect Gostkowskiâs contract number to be in the $3mil to $4mil range.
Losing a kicker like Gostkowski would obviously be bad news for New England. Replacing his production would certainly not be an easy task.
Note: Pre-draft scouting reports on potential Patriots are on their way and will be posted regularly as the draft comes even closer.
A stockpile of picks, a bunch of needs, and a much needed injection of youth should make this draft interesting for all Patriots fans.
The most interesting aspect of this whole draft for the Patriots will be the direction they take. Do they aim more for day one contributors that can provide value at a second or third spot on a depth chart? Do they aim more for developmental pieces that may take longer to develop but better the team after the Brady era ends? This decision will greatly dictate how the Patriots draft and who they draft.
Obviously, the more valuable picks are the players that can provide some immediate value and can also continue to get better overtime. Letâs take a look at which positions the Patriots should find themselves emphasizing this year and how high up on the totem pole each one should be.
1. TIGHT END
Iowa’s TJ Hockenson is certainly on the draft board for the Patriots
Look for the Patriots to address tight end extremely early. TJ Hockenson should be their main priority going into the draft, as he can provide short-term and long-term benefits. Player comparisons for TJ span all the way from Dennis Pitta to a baby Gronk.
Adding Hockenson would provide immediate benefit to a team that loves their two tight end sets. He also has an extremely high ceiling that could answer the Patriots potential problems at tight end once Gronk retires.
Hockenson being available at #32 might be a stretch. Which if it so happens that his name gets called before the Patriots selection, plenty of options will still be available at tight end. This tight end loaded class features many potential options, however none as appealing or exciting as TJ.
Gronk will not play forever, therefore the time has come to find his eventual replacement.
2. FRONT SEVEN
Mississippi State’s Jeffery Simmons remains the wild card
Do not let the great play by this group in the playoffs overshadow the regular season and regular seasons prior. This front seven still needs a major revamp.
Linebacker happens to be less of a need than expected, due to the emergence of Van Noy and the glimpse everyone received of Jaâwhaun Bentley. Yet, Hightower gets no younger and carries a tremendous cap hit next season. Adrian Clayborn did not live up to his unreasonable expectations and also costs a pretty penny next year. Flowers needs to be resigned to a ground-breaking deal. Shelton and Brown also appear set to at least hit the market, whether they return remains unknown.
Harsh reality here, the Patriots front seven has been inconsistent and has struggled in countless areas. Much turnover looks likely for the group and defensive coaches are leaving this team left and right.
The best strategy would be to draft quality front seven players that fit the ideology of the new incoming coaches. Therefore, the Patriots should bring some much needed youth to a core that needs a new direction.
Keep an eye on Jeffery Simmons, who has his red flags and also just tore his ACL but if he slides enough, the Patriots could potentially snag him on day two. Simmons being a top ten talent in most peopleâs minds, would certainly be worth the risk if available on day two.
3. OFFENSIVE TACKLE
With the right coaching for Northern Illinois’ Max Scharping, he can be a deadly force in the NFL
Expect the Patriots to at least think about grabbing another offensive tackle to eventually pair with Isaiah Wynn.
The future remains unclear on whether the Patriots will resign Trent Brown but regardless the Patriots will have to choose between either Brown and Wynn or Cannon and Wynn.
Brown will not be cheap to resign and the Patriots will have to take a look at Wynnâs recovery from the Achilles injury that sidelined him this season. Wynn should be ready to go for week one but might see some drawbacks in his game. If Wynn for some reason really does not appear like he should be starting week one, well then, a Greek tragedy arises. A travesty occurs. Shakespeare would call this play Isaiah of Foxboro (Timon of Athens reference).
If Wynnâs health does not seem up to par, that would mean the Patriots would likely have to sign Trent Brown to a huge contract and retain Marcus Cannonâs cap hit as well. Meaning the first round pick would be struggling, the Patriots would pay a kingâs ransom, and they would also likely forfeit a potential third round comp pick that they would likely acquire if they let Trent Brown go.
Bottom line is that the Patriots will look at Wynnâs health and likely look to dump either Brown or Cannon. This would inevitably require them to find a tackle that could backup for the meantime and later step into a full role.
The guy to watch out for here is Max Scharping. His draft stock entirely depends on his combine and Pro day. He could end up falling anywhere between rounds one through four depending on his combine and Pro day. Assuming he falls a bit, he would be a perfect developmental player for New England. Max is someone who could end up starting for them for a long time under Scarnecchia’s influence and guidance.
At almost every turn this regular season, the Patriots found themselves doubted. Constantly counted out and disregarded, teams went to play them with a higher level of confidence than years prior. Now, they head to Atlanta where they are currently three point favorites against the Los Angeles Rams.
Gameplan
Yesterday was a marvelous performance and featured phenomenal execution. The gameplan on offense was really no secret. The plan going in was to establish the run game, create unpredictability in the playcall, and most of all dominate the time of possession to keep the ball out of the hands of Mahomes.
Coaching
The coaching was stupendous however not flawless. Some questionable playcalls and decisions almost cost them the game on both sides of the ball, but that happens in the NFL. On the flip side, the coaching staff for Kansas City appeared blatantly unprepared for this game. The Patriots game plan came as no surprise to even some of the most casual fans, yet Kansas City struggled to stop the run on almost every try early in the game. Virtually every run in the first and second quarter broke for nice gains into the second and third levels of the defense.Â
Defensive Line
The Chiefs failures to stop the run early on killed their chances to get anything going in the first half. Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs might want to look at the tape from this game and look at how one dimensional their offense became. The depleted running attack forced Mahomes to throw. Andy Reid and the staff did him no favors by calling almost exclusively medium to long ball plays. This only made the job easier for Patriots pass rush, who was steamrolling an offensive line, going after a quarterback holding onto the ball for too long. Trey Flowers and the crew had big games attacking a offensive line that was pretty solid this season.
Long Drives
The long, sustained drives that the Patriots put together early in the game were just pure football art. The mix of run and pass had the defense guessing wrong almost every time in the first and second quarter and allowed for the Patriots to hold the Chiefs offense to zero points in the first half. Complementary football at itâs finest.
Tommy Boy
Also, of course, how can anyone forget? Tom Brady. How does Brady continue to put together these wins late in the game, seemingly by himself. Sure the offensive line was spectacular and Edelman and Gronk played big roles in the final two drives, but Brady put on a clinic by marching down the field twice to go ahead on both occasions. Name another quarterback who deserves to even be mentioned in the same sentence as him. It might take a while.Â
Chris Amendola
It was encouraging to see Chris Hogan make some of the plays he did late in the game, which only inspires hope for Patriots fans that he can take on the Patriotsâ Playoff Amendola role.
Offensive Line and Running Game
The offensive line as mentioned before was marvelous. They did a great job, paving the way for Michel, White, and Burkhead to run where they wanted at will. The question remains to be asked of where this offensive line and team would be without re-hiring Dante Scarnecchia back in 2016.
Roberts and Kyle Van Noy
The last real encouraging performance was the performance of Kyle Van Noy and Elandon Roberts. Two frequently unappreciated linebackers went and put together some nice plays and tackles to make things difficult for Mahomes and company. Van Noyâs performance was especially impressive and very encouraging going into the Super Bowl against a very good running game.
Stage set in Atlanta
Now, Brady and company will head off to Super Bowl 53 in a highly anticipated matchup versus the Los Angeles Rams. Hopefully, the Patriots can follow the pattern of the Red Sox and themselves, who both beat LA teams earlier this year (Dodgers and Chargers). Regardless of the outcome of this Super Bowl bout, it is hard to see the Patriots going down without a fight.
As the Steelers appear to be a dilapidated, down the pan team, headed for a fiery, violent crash, it is time to question wether they will be considered a rival of ours next year. Of course, the Patriotsâ run should come to a close once their older veterans leave, like Brady, Gronk, Belichick. However, different from the Patriots, the Steelers main problem is keeping their younger stars happy. We all know about the Bell debacle that developed over a two year period. Now, the Steelers are considering exploring the trade market for Antonio Brown this offseason. Big Ben is not getting any younger and although he would still have Juju Smith-Schuster as a target, life without Brown for an older quarterback like Roethlisberger would be a painful and embarrassing season for him. Life without Antonio Brown, who holds a spot in every discussion of the best receiver in the league, would almost force Big Ben to hang up the cleats. The locker room in Pittsburgh is toxic and out of control, leadership is flawed, and teammates turn on each other faster than rats abandoning a sinking ship. Tomlin might have his moments as a good football mind but relying on him to control his teamâs behavior or even his own is a dangerous risk.
Andrew Luck by Keith Allison on 16 September 2018
Out with the old, In with the new
Meanwhile, watching Andrew Luck pitch to a receiving corps lacking any huge star is scary. TY Hilton is pretty good, but not a guy who scares the living daylights out of defensive coordinators. The Colts put together fantastic performances versus the Titans and Texans, both divisional opponents with good defenses. The Colts are the future. Their whopping projected 118 million dollar cap space in 2019 is scary for a team that is currently making a playoff run. The Colts may not win it all this year but they will be a daunting force to any team not prepared for them in 2019 and beyond. With their main needs being a running back, defensive linemen and defensive backs, there is no better year to grab one of each through either the draft and or free agency. Discussion and rumors already link LeâVeon Bell to the Colts, which would make a huge difference to their already thriving offense. I will assure you, every running back on the free agent market is salivating at the sight of Indianapolis. A team with a boat load of money, a great offensive line, and an indoor stadium is running back paradise. If the Colts check off all the needs on their shopping list this offseason, that team would be a group no one would want to face.
So, New England, forget Pittsburgh, they are as dead as a maggot in a freezer. The Colts, who we hated during the Manning years and after the whole Deflategate saga are the guys to hate again. Which is convenient because they already hate us back. A marque matchup of Brady vs Luck is something that Pats fans should be accustomed to over at least the next one or two seasons.
Both Brian Flores and Josh McDaniels have generated interest from multiple teams to be their head coach. The Broncos, Browns, Packers, and Dolphins have requested to interview Flores for their head coaching positions, according to ESPNâs Adam Schefter. In addition, the Packers and Dolphins have requested to interview Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, Schefter reported.
The Backstories
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McDaniels has been with the Patriots for all 5 of their championships as some form of assistant, coach, or coordinator. He took a head coaching job in 2009 and spent two seasons with the Denver Broncos. After an incident, he was fired and was eventually named the Rams offensive coordinator in 2011, before returning back to the Patriots. McDaniels was originally going to take the Colts head coaching job last year, but had backed out of it last minute. He is currently the highest paid offensive coordinator.
Flores has also been with the Patriots as some form of assistant, coach, or coordinator since 2004. This year, he has taken over the Patriots’ play-calling duties on the defensive side.
Homegrown
Can you sense the pattern? The Patriots find and promote their coaches from within for the most part. So, with this in mind, who is next up after McDaniels and Flores?
Chad O’Shea, Wide Receivers Coach
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O’Shea has been with the team for nine seasons, and it seems like the Patriots have been planning for him to move up the ladder at some point. Last year, he called plays in the preseason as it looked like teams might go after McDaniels. Belichick has high praise for his abilities as a coach and mentor.
âChad’s an excellent teacher (and) a very good fundamental coach,” Belichick said recently. âHe has a good relationship with his players, has a good relationship with all of the staff members and is easy to work with…He comes from a football background â of course, his dad, Mike O’Shea, is one of the great trainers in his profession of all time…Chad’s done a really good job for us.â (BSJ 2019)
O’Shea is the most obvious candidate for the offensive coordinator job if McDaniels leaves.
Options for Defensive Coordinator
The choice for the next man up for the defense is not clear. Outside of Flores, the longest-tenured defensive coach with 10 seasons with the team is cornerbacks coach, Josh Boyer, if the front office goes on seniority. Obviously, Steve Belichick, the safeties coach, is an option too. However, Bill Belichick could also go without naming a defensive coordinator for the season to maybe allow the defensive staff to develop more, if that is what he sees fit.
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Now, those were all internal options. Externally, it is hard to pinpoint who exactly the Patriots would go after. One option is Greg Schiano, who is the defensive coordinator for Ohio State. It is reported that he and Bill Belichick have a good relationship, and that he was wooed by the Patriots in early 2018 before deciding to remain at Ohio State (NBCSports 2018).
New England has lost its second game in December, the first time since 2002. The Patriots decided to take Josh Gordon out for the final play of the game. McDaniels answered questions, and Josh Gordonâs absence on that play was a hot topic.
Josh Gordon Shouldâve been on the field on Sunday
Where was Josh Gordon
The Patriots loss didnât come down to one single play, but again player personnel was an issue. After the game Bill Belichick was asked about Gordonâs absence. The head coach said they opted for Cordarrelle Patterson instead, which didnât answer anything really.
Patterson is another big, athletic, jump ball receiver. The answer from Belichick didnât cut it for me, because having Gordon and Patterson in for the play wouldâve made sense. But that wasnât the case, Gordon who played 58 snaps compared to Pattersonâs 4 were swapped for the biggest play of the game.
McDaniels Explains Gordonâs Absence
The Patriots found themselves in position to tie the game after driving down the field. The game looked like every other Patriots comeback, until the holding call on second down. That penalty on second down moved the offense from the 11 yard line, back to the 21 yard line and loss of a down. The Steelers took a timeout before Tom Bradyâs final attempt to win. Gordon ran to the sideline during the time out and left many scratching their head.
Via SI.com
Josh Gordon wasnât made available to the media after the game. McDaniels said that âthe offense had run quite a few plays in a row.â He Seems to be indicating Gordon was tired. He went on to say Patterson was sent in as a âfresh guyâ to try and make a play. He stated there is no ulterior motive behind the decision.
Josh Gordon Gives The Patriots the Best Chance to Win
The whole situation is strange, and Tom Brady could have used Gordonâs big catch radius and play-making ability on 4th down. New England needs to win the final two games of the year, and Gordon needs to be on the field. Josh Gordon is the teams leading receiver, tied for most TDs, and had quickly become Bradyâs go to guy. The Patriots need to play better on the field, but the play calling and coaching also need to be better moving forward.
The way this Patriots team is built and the fact that the Dolphins’ best player, Xavien Howard, is out for the game will help Josh Gordon the most. The one issue is the game is in Miami, a place that always gives New England trouble.
Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Just in the past 5 years, the team is 1-4 in Miami. Historically the Patriots have not played well at Miami Gardens. The temperature is also expected to be relatively high too which may affect the game as well. The loss in Jacksonville is an example of the heat playing a factor against New England.
Bill Belichick wonât use the weather as an excuse, but we all know since 200, the Patriots have struggled in the heat. Former Patriot Tedy Bruschi said as much on ESPN when asked about why this team struggles in Miami.
Built for Success
The Patriots right now are just built for success. They are extremely healthy, have top 10 players in many categories including one of the best cornerback duos right now. Stephon Gilmore is questionable although Is likely to play, as he flew with the team for this matchup. The Patriots should be able to come out of this with a win. Look for Sony Michel and the running backs to have a big day.
(Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
New England should look to set up the run game early, using all three backs. Rotating the running backs will keep them from cramping up and running out of steam from the heat. Tom Brady will be able to take advantage of the injury riddled Dolphins. The running game will set up  play action passes, and more defenders in the box.
Patriots-Dolphins Prediction
The Patriots come in as heavy favorites despite recent history, and I donât think it will be a blowout. Miami has played well at home this year, at 6-6 they will be looking for revenge from week 4. The rash of injuries to this Dolphins team, along with New England coming in almost at 100% will be the difference today. Not the heat.
The Patriots are really starting to look better on offense, defense and are only missing one player. The Patriots will win the AFC East again today, for the 10th year in a row. The players will get up for this âhat and T-shirt gameâ as they continue to try and get that number one seed.
