I’ve always viewed Hernandez as a luxury because he can do so many things. I think the Pats should be okay to get by without him but they’re going to be a different offense. Think more 11 personnel instead of their ideal 12.
Reports from camp were that this was going to be Hernandez’s year. That he was the key weapon. And that seems to explain why the Pats offense lacked any kind of rhythm as soon as he went out.
If there was one thing I am most surprised by it’s how unprepared the Pats seemed to attack the Cardinals without Hernandez. Perhaps they were too reliant on him?
But I still think this offense should be able to move the ball with Lloyd, Welker, Gronkowski, Edelman and Ridley.