While I agree, I believe that we need TWO starting quality gaurds in addition to Neal. Maybe Connolly is one, maybe not. We did see him as a starting RG last year. Maybe he will be better this year. To me, I well understand counting on Connolly as the backup to Neal. It is even OK to have Ghiaciuc as the backup at LG.
Yes, perhaps Dante has faith in the starting ability of Ohrnberger, Bussye or Larsen.
My bottom line, is that I expect Belichick to bring in at least one reasonably high profile guard if Mankins won't play, perhaps Mawae.