Obviously you miss a ton of stats and angles when you’re at the game and not watching it on TV so a quick re-watch this morning was vital. Here are 12 quick-hit thoughts on what I picked up this time through.
- I realized the Chiefs did exactly what I said I’d do if I was attacking the Patriots’ defense. Go after the size and inexperience on the edges and target the linebackers in coverage. The high-priced secondary didn’t really matter once the Pats lost the edges of their defense and could’t get the check-downs tackled.
- The one long bomb to Cooks was beautiful, but was it worth the multiple deep incompletions? Deep threats only work if they’re a threat, and the Chiefs didn’t play them like they were.
- Yeah, Richards being out there at linebacker wasn’t exactly inspiring, and he was part of the soft edge problem, but he did make a nice play forcing a fumble and drawing a holding penalty. Kyle Van Noy is basically the heart of the defense now and I never thought I’d have to type those words.
- I wonder if it’s going to be hard to find a rhythm with the running backs? Lewis just can’t seem to break free, I wonder if he’s going to be a kickoff returner and specialist back, while the bulk of the load goes to Burkhead early.
- Yes, most yards and points allowed under Belichick, but it can’t be stated enough how much this is everything he DOESN’T coach. There’s no way to sugar coat it. I’m vaguely reminded of 2005, when Bruschi and Phifer were out early and, despite a strong front and secondary, and eventually getting Bruschi back, they were the worst defense under BB.
- Very curious to see the A22 because it seemed like they ran three verticals a bunch of times. They almost seemed too intent on proving they had a deep game and it fizzled.
- James White could emerge as a pivotal player this season in replacing Edelman. What the team needs now more than anything is a Kevin Faulk-ish presence out of the backfield who can be counted on in the critical moments. They also seem intent on showing they’re not afraid to hand the ball off to White anymore.
- Who’d have ever thought the quick, shifty receiver cupboard could become so bare so quick?
- I find it totally disturbing how Cassius Marsh looks like Belichick merged Shea McClellin with Punk Macklemore then added just a sprinkle of high motor, then spit him back out on to the field. If Hightower misses time he’s next up at SDE.
- Wow David Harris must’ve fallen off a cliff. Two running-down snaps and no special teams. Wonder if he’ll be another hidden former-Jet presence like Shaun Ellis in 2011.
- I can’t say enough about how quick and disruptive Adam Butler is. He’s a load for anyone to block and I’ve never seen his energy drop. He had 20 snaps, Wise had 17, getting their feet wet on third down. Both showed up even more on the broadcast.
- Not Brady’s best game, and it was eerily similar to 2013 when things just weren’t clicking. Just remember Julian Edelman emerged from that season as his new “sonar” buddy as Edelman put it. Might be a grind at times this year, third down evolution will be an interesting thing to track.
Do you anticipate them trading for another slot-type receiver, Mike? They might have to at this rate with all the injuries. Perhaps the Pats can swing another deal with the Colts for Kamar Aiken; he might still be familiar with their system and is only 28 years old. I know that wouldn’t be a blockbuster of a move, but it’d at least be something. Another possible option — and I say this knowing this one’s kind of out of left field — maybe Kendall Wright from the Bears? He’s currently signed on a one-year deal for $4 million, so not sure the Pats would want to pick that up, but he’s only 27 and I think is itching to be more involved in an offense. I was looking at his combine numbers, and I’m not sure he would exactly fit the Patriots slot receiver mold, but his 3-cone drill numbers weren’t too far off from where the Patriots like them to be, and he was extensive experience playing in the slot from his years with Tennessee. Just something to think about, would love to know what you think.
Kendall Wright has always seemed like their kind of guy, good call. I think the quickest option is throw Dorsett into the fire a little bit more. If they pursued him with Cooks already in the fold there must be a reason. But I still would never rule out another addition. Jabar Gaffney was one guy who came in mid-season and actually became their most reliable target in the 2006 playoffs. It’s that kind of guy they should be on the look out for, and Gaffney was just a street free agent. The roster is always evolving and with Amendola concussed it will evolve again over the next week. Hopefully they can add someone to at least provide some depth. Thanks for the comment/question!