I called it.
Didn't know it would be Gabriel, but their offense was sluggish and undisciplined.
Talent isn't the only thing that makes for a good offense. Crisp execution and communication as the result of good practice habits and a game plan that fits the personnel, (that's phase two).
Don't forget, in 2001 we won with a special teams player and third down receiver just breaking in as a regular.
A street free agent castoff, obviously worth nothing according to posters and
Some guy named Fred who made like 2 plays all year.
That was our wide receiving corps.
RayClay,
Call it you did !! I notice that Belichick and Brady have handled this with class. No criticism of the released player. Merely a statement that other players in the league weren't able to play in the Pat's system. Nothing more. Brady amplified by calling him a nice teammate.
Ray, your analysis makes the most sense of all. BB is not vindictive, if it might cost him a victory. He let Donald Hayes go for what I suspect was the same situation. The intrinsic inability to comprehend a complicated playbook.
Gabriel's appearance's were minimal but not nonexistent the last couple of games, (Lions & Phins) being in for 22 snaps, so the brainless "...it was the fumble" was just that... brainless.
Jabbar Gaffney must be coming on in practice, as his snaps have increased to 30 the last two games. I only remember one missed catch, the bomb to him. I know he didn't catch anything this last game. Looking at the Lions gamebook, he caught one for 28 yards, but I don't remember it.
It was apparent from Brady's news conference that since Jackson isn't practicing, that they are not counting on him. Ergo, it has to be Jabbar. Less anyone forget Jabbar best season more than equals the best season Givens ever had in the league. And he didn't have a Brady throwing him the ball either.
My friends in Philly said that although the signed Gaffney in the the off season as a prized FA, they were really looking for a down field receiver, and JG is much more of a possession type. It seems that is what the Pat's need now.