I still say Cassel doesn't become the Cassel we are talking about today on any team besides the Pats. Really, I don't know why his play is so surprising. A highly touted college recruit that got stuck behind a couple of Heisman winners. Drafted by a team with the quarterback of the decade already starting. Learning from the best for 4 years, already intimately familiar with the offense. Finally thrust into the starting limelight surrounded by 5 all-pros on offense. Brought along by the best coaching staff in the league. He might very well have become very successful had he been drafted by another team, but no way does he go from "He should be cut" to "Maybe he should be franchised" (neither of which were/are my sentiments) in 9 weeks anywhere but in New England.