WaterfallJumper
Veteran Starter w/Big Long Term Deal
- Joined
- Apr 6, 2009
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Just thought a consolidated thread for comments, rants, and other random thoughts regarding this year's crop of rookie players might prove useful.
We've discussed the Solder situation ad nauseam, it seems, and until Ridley's minor injury, he was the greatest running back ever. (Hah. Love overreacting fans; also, I am one myself!) I want to discuss a couple other players for now.
One of the things I noticed about Markell Carter, for example, was how much stronger he was against the run in this game compared with his first few preseason games. His technique has improved drastically. He's much lower off the snap, his hand placement has improved, and he didn't get rag-dolled. I was also pleasantly surprised that his pass-rush actually won him double-team attention on several snaps. Solid all around showing for a fringe guy. I fully expect him to make the PS.
Dowling: Wow! He looked fantastic. I only remember him giving up one catch, and he was right there to make the tackle. I thought he played his press technique very well, and his strength was evident when receivers tried to release off the line. Loved how he kept shedding blocks versus the run and flying to the ball. Mostly lined up on the left side, but it looked like he took snaps on the right and also as a goal line safety. He will be the Patriots most versatile defensive back by the end of the year. I think he can have a Charles Woodson type of career, lining up against wideouts, slot receivers, tight ends, etc, as well as blitzing and playing safety in some packages. I've wanted him on the Patriots since 2008, so I loved watching his debut.
Anyone else want to talk about their favorite rookies? Let's see some undrafted love, perhaps! Have fun.
We've discussed the Solder situation ad nauseam, it seems, and until Ridley's minor injury, he was the greatest running back ever. (Hah. Love overreacting fans; also, I am one myself!) I want to discuss a couple other players for now.
One of the things I noticed about Markell Carter, for example, was how much stronger he was against the run in this game compared with his first few preseason games. His technique has improved drastically. He's much lower off the snap, his hand placement has improved, and he didn't get rag-dolled. I was also pleasantly surprised that his pass-rush actually won him double-team attention on several snaps. Solid all around showing for a fringe guy. I fully expect him to make the PS.
Dowling: Wow! He looked fantastic. I only remember him giving up one catch, and he was right there to make the tackle. I thought he played his press technique very well, and his strength was evident when receivers tried to release off the line. Loved how he kept shedding blocks versus the run and flying to the ball. Mostly lined up on the left side, but it looked like he took snaps on the right and also as a goal line safety. He will be the Patriots most versatile defensive back by the end of the year. I think he can have a Charles Woodson type of career, lining up against wideouts, slot receivers, tight ends, etc, as well as blitzing and playing safety in some packages. I've wanted him on the Patriots since 2008, so I loved watching his debut.
Anyone else want to talk about their favorite rookies? Let's see some undrafted love, perhaps! Have fun.