MankinsManiac70

I have been watching games in anticipation of a Merriweather apperance, but to no avail. I went to a couple training camp practices and he was getting consistent first team looks. Now I realize that Samules is back, but with Harrison out the first 4 games I figured we would see a good amount of him. Does anyone know if he has fallen out of grace with BB ? Granted Sanders has done a good job at SS, but Merriweather is faster, stronger and more athletic than Sanders. Just an observation.

PS Mankins eats people when he pulls!!!!!rocker:

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BelichickFan

He's had some time on defense (mostly garbage time) and special teams. He's not gone anywhere and I think you underestimate Sanders and the solid player he has become.

Meriweather will likely replace Wilson next year assuming Wilson leaves as a UFA.

JoeSixPat

He's gone to the same place where nearly all defensive rookies go with Belichick - on the bench for the most part, taking his time and learning the system

Seriously, he has been getting time in nickel and dime packages, which is exactly what we suspected would be the case...

People have high expectations that 1st round picks will start but that's really not the desired situation on the Patriots - better that he be integrated slowly and learn what many consider a complicated secondary defensive scheme

Ishdul

He's a rookie. Considering the wealth of talent on this team, we're past the stage where every 1st rounder starts from Day 1. I heavily doubt he's fallen out of grace.

Ratoath

I'm not really sure what people are expecting out of meriweather this year. I think he's done well. With Wilson at FS, I dont think Brandon was ever going to come in right away and start. He'll be a good starter, dont worry.

emoney_33

Yup. We didn't really see hardly any of Hobbs while he was learning until they finally replaced Starks with him. We have a solid group of DB's so there's no need to rush him in too soon. Let him learn, he'll have plenty chances to play on this team.

mgteich

Meriweather should be seen more tonight as a a dime back. After Harrison's return, he will be seen even less than now.

MoLewisrocks

Faster, stronger and more athletic isn't how you get reps or game time on this team. It's making good reads and adjustments, limited mistakes, and just doing the job. Merriweather has lots of potential, but Sanders is apparently a lot more consistent and reliable at this juncture. Wilson and Sanders jobs have been to hold the fort absent Rodney, and they have been doing that pretty well in conjunction with Hobbs, Samuel and Gay. Adding a rookie into the mix arbitrarily just to give him exposure is not a viable option when the goal is to win. You may see him get worked in a little more rotationally once Rodney does get back and is in a position to direct traffic in the secondary.

JoeSixPat

No kidding, huh?

Think the pass and multiple receiver sets might be a small part of the Bengals gameplan tonight?

desi-patsfan

Agreed, Sanders has done a real nice job and probably doesnt get enough credit.