MMQB on Pats/Bills Matchup

[SVN]

http://mmqb.si.com/2014/10/08/buffalo-bills-new-england-patriots-week-6-nfl/

 

[Uncle Rico]

For those who are click averse:

... Schwartz this week faces a problem that all defensive schemers are struggling with these days: what to do with his linebackers versus the pass. Specifically, what to do with starting middle linebacker Brandon Spikes. The fifth-year veteran is the most prototypical, old-school middle linebacker in the NFL—he’s a sensational downhill run-stopper but a shaky pass defender. This paradox is a large reason why Spikes is no longer with the Patriots. Bill Belichick decided that in today’s NFL, great run-defending no longer trumps subpar pass-defending, not even for a middle linebacker.

Schwartz, however, might feel obligated to keep Spikes on the field because the Patriots, as expected, are going back to being a base two-receiver offense. The tricky part is it’s a diverse base, featuring both two-RB personnel with fullback James Develin and two tight end personnel with Tim Wright accompanying Rob Gronkowski.

Goes on to explain more about Wright's role and how his presence doesn't necessarily mean pass.

Meanwhile in Reissland, BB talks about Wright working to get better as a blocker:

As a converted wide receiver who is only in his second season in the NFL, Wright is still making the transition in the blocking game. “[Wright], like all of us, needs to keep working on that, needs to work on his blocking -- in the passing game, the run game, pass protection,” Belichick said. “He’s a second-year player who is really a conversion from another position in college. And there’s a lot of things he can work on.” Belichick added that Wright is working hard at improving his blocking skills to be a contributor in that aspect of the game. Belichick sees a lot of potential in Wright. “He works hard. Nobody works harder than Tim,” Belichick said.

 

[frongi]

After some of spikes off season comments, wouldn't mind seeing him matched up one on one with vereen. Would certainly help the offense.

 

[Gronkandez]

For those who are click averse:
:

Thanks. Pet peeve of mine are threads with a link containing no quotes or comments.