PatsFan37
2nd Team Getting Their First Start
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This is one of the most exciting things about this offense compared to 2009, the mix-and-match of skill players with the ability to block, catch, and run after the catch.I do think that this year we spend a lot of time in a 2WR, 2TE, 1RB set, using Gronk, Hernandez, Moss, Welker, Committee. Against this package, a 3CB nickel would soften the run defense considerably, allowing Hernandez to move to H-back or come in motion, block for WR screens, etc. It means changing the play mix, but I'd think it's more effective than the lineup with Aiken and Welker. As such, Aiken's snaps would likely be reduced, as they are bound to be when we have an influx of offensive weapons at pass-catching positions, particularly potential receivers who are his equal at blocking.
The key question with the new guys is how well they can see exactly what Brady sees, because Brady will want to use clever pre-snap reads and audibles and sight adjustments to pick apart the advantageous matchups. If some of these guys can turn into his next Troy Brown or Deion Branch or Wes Welker, that's another weapon to spell Moss and the real Welker.
The good news is that Edelman and Hernandez are already proving that they get the playbook. It's possible either (or both!) TEs can become what Brady has never had, guys with great ability to block and catch and run and who know the playbook. This may become the best lineup of offensive weapons Brady has ever had, including 2007.
The media outside NE has not yet caught on to the potential of this 2010 Patriots offense.
(Though the Patriots-Falcons followed by the Jets-Panthers games might have given them a clue.)