I rewatched the AFCCG and came away thinking David Andrews was the best player on the field in the first half. Gronk was also a huge factor, as well as Develin. Paterson starting us off at the 36 in OT, as well as a clutch end around.
I'm always optimistic within reason, but it's hard to rationalize the Patriots getting back to that level of offense this season with the way the "secondary options" are playing
I think the Pats should be 3-4 point underdogs this week as opposed to a 3 point favorite.
First and foremost this defense needs to perform as the top unit in football. Period. If you don't want to properly allocate resources to WR/TE, after losing pro bowl TE,FB,C,KR then the identity of this team needs to stamp it's name as an all time legendary defense, case closed.
Brady is Brady. Nothing has changed since he looked slow and old dropping that pass in Super Bowl 2 years ago. He set the passing record that day. The next year he completed tight window zip passes on 3rd and 10, 3rd and 9, 3rd and 10, to send us to the SB. He is a blessing.
The offense needs to pound the rock. Maybe it's time for Harris to get 20 carries out of the blue to ignite things. Edelman is still playing at a high level and White proved he is still fully alive and kicking. The complementary pieces need to stake a claim of ownership of this team.
Sanu, Harry, Dorsett, and Meyers.... this is on you...
Brady Edelman and the defense are big personalities, they can't sit back and take secondary roles. They need to play with the confidence of past Patriots and rise to the occasion. They can do it.