Tunescribe

I was going to make a big argument for bolstering the running game this season to take pressure off Brady and the rebuilding defense, but in the final analysis, things really look OK. We have a good rotation in place via Maroney, Taylor, Morris and Faulk (if we indeed keep all four) and a system that averaged 142 rushing YPG last year (sixth in the league). The passing offense was 12th overall in '08 w/223 YPG. So, with Brady back and some other healthy bodies available (hello, Mike Thomas), you've got to figure the passing game will improve automatically. I'd like to see the offensive line get some strong, young help -- some "road grader" style run blockers. But aside from that, the offense looks pretty darn good from top to bottom. Is there a critical need anywhere? Not that I see. We could use some OL depth and maybe tight end/fullback upgrades, perhaps a young developmental WR. I think O'Connell will be capable backing up Tom, the third QB slot going to Gutierrez/older vet/rookie.

This brings emphasis squarely back to defense for major upgrading via the draft and possibly still through free agency. I like the pickups so far. But other than possibly OL, defense looks to be the focus for "major" additions in the form of high draft picks and "name" free agents (a la, Peppers or Taylor).

JFK

It is good enough. Even the best team can always be better.

Deus Irae

If the O-line holds up and Brady is back to 90%+, this offense may exceed the 2007 scoring totals. Galloway has the potential to make that kind of impact. Of course, health "if" will be the word of the year:

If Galloway can stay healthy
If Maroney can stay healthy
If Taylor has another year in him
If Neal can stay healty


etc....

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CampPen33

If they stay healthy, I'm expecting some big offensive numbers!

Tunescribe

The health of key players is the giant asterisk attached to team fortunes every season. Last year proved that great coaching alone can keep you competitive, but you need your studs to seal the deal.

ScottieC

Agreed, The pose such a defensive problem for opposing teams, it's hard to know how you could stop them - Even if they rush Tom and he's in trouble you can run Sammy, Lawrence and Fred all day and grind the clock.

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Deus Irae

Indeed. Unlike the late, 'great' Donte Stallworth, Galloway is/was a bona fide #1 receiver on other teams. He's no longer the player he was 6 seasons ago, but he can still beat one-one coverage. When this team goes 4 wide on 3rd down with

Moss
Welker
Galloway
Lewis (for now, at least)
Faulk

That's going to put enormous pressure on opposing defenses. Hell, taking lewis out and putting Watson in as that #4 receiver still makes that group of matchups insane.

__________________
"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane."
- Marcus Aurelius

alvinnf

One of their TE's needs to emerge as a more than adequate pass blocker. Watson or Thomas or both. I thought Baker was a good blocker in NY, is he the best of the bunch.

JSn

I'd love to sit in a room with you guys and talk about offensive formations and how the crap you'd defend them. Trying it in a thread is a nightmare.

But what you're talking about above is just ridiculous. Three burners, a slot that demands double coverage and the best blitz p/u & slot wr/hb in the game? bwahaha. The ONLY answer for most every team in the league is pass rush. And with Brady's decisiveness and Welker and Faulk to grab the shorties... there is a genuine threat to go the distance every time.

It will be fun to see the tape-breakdown guys at work this year. It's one of the best ways to see what coaching is going on in Foxboro.

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jmt57

Very true, look at the improvement last year once Neal came off PUP and Kaczur was available again. There was a huge, immediate positive impact to the offense.

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