Guys, can we really do it? What needs to change?
 

Just saw a tremendous tribute to Drew Brees on the NFL Network halftime show. What needs to happen for us to meet them again in the Super Bowl? What needs to change on our end.

Here - I'll start:

1) Our third-down efficiency on offense needs to improve to about 80%.

2) We need to avg about 4.9 yds. per rushing attempt, and have around 30 attempts per game.

3) Our third-down efficiency on defense needs to be what it was against the Panthers.

4) We need at least 1 sack per quarter.

5) Randy Moss needs to return to first half of 2007 form.

How about you?

QB12

Re: Guys, can we really do it? What needs to change?
 

This team simply isn't good enough.
Far too inconsistent in all phases of the game and too many key guys are banged up, Brady, Wilfork, Fred Taylor. etc.

Re: Guys, can we really do it? What needs to change?
 

That's asking for quite a bit. If the Pats offense converted 60% of their 3rd downs I'd be doing cartwheels. Currently the Colts lead the NFL, converting 51% of their 3rd downs.

Re: Guys, can we really do it? What needs to change?
 

No, they can't do it. Sorry. This team is not a super bowl worthy team. Their pass rush is non existent, can't stop the run and their offense looks horrible.

Sorry to be so negative, but it is what it is.

Re: Guys, can we really do it? What needs to change?
 

2 simple points:

Get healthy on both lines, run the ball more and avoid the 5 wide as much as possible.

Better red zone defense. One red zone stop and we beat the Colts easy, 4th and 2 is never an issue.

Re: Guys, can we really do it? What needs to change?
 

Yes.

On Offense:
A #3 WR needs to emerge - probably Edelman (which means he and Brady should be spending extra time together).
Watson and Brady need to get back into 2006 mode.
Neal needs to get healthy.
The run game needs to continue forcing teams to honor play action.

On Defense:
The Safety play needs to settle down and be more disciplined.
Mayo needs to stop overplaying and be more disciplined.

On Special Teams:
The coverage units need to start stuffing the top KR men and making plays when they've got a chance to pin a punt inside the 10.

Re: Guys, can we really do it? What needs to change?
 

>>> Brady needs to be healthy and protected.

>>> Vollmer needs to be as good at RT as he was at LT.

>>> Wilfork and Warren need to double tape their ankles.

>>> Aiken needs to get open deep to get the safety to shade a bit.

>>> The Maroney/Faulk show needs to continue and will as long they stay healthy.

Re: Guys, can we really do it? What needs to change?
 

A healthy Fred Taylor will help a lot in the red zone.

If they call his number.

Re: Guys, can we really do it? What needs to change?
 

I've given up hope for Fred ...

Re: Guys, can we really do it? What needs to change?
 

Him missing practice today was not a good sign, after he had returned to practice last Friday. I would guess that he doesn't make the trip to Buffalo this week, and that he'll try to give it a go against the Jags at home after Christmas. He'll be needed for the playoffs though - all hands on deck.