The loss yesterday was very tough to take for all of us, considering it was our most hated rival. But I think the franchise is still on the right path and will be a championship contender for the several years. But maybe we should expect more than that, afterall we are Patriots fans.
Losing to the Ravens last year and the manner in which the Patriots lost in the first round of the AFC Playoffs was an eye opener. However, when you look at the defensive starters last year and the roster changes from 2009 to 2010, one can understand the need for change. Gone from the defensive roster were Adalius Thomas, Derrick Burgess, Jarvis Green, and Shawn Springs. The four aforementioned players were on their last legs as evident by the fact none of these players logged any minutes in 2010.
As for the 2010 NFL season, the New England Patriots made serious considerations to upgrade the defense with youth. McCourty, Spikes, Cunningham, Deaderick should be better in 2011 than 2010 with a year's experience under their collective belts. In addition, Brace and Chung made great strides in their sophomore season both logging significant minutes. Darius Butler was the only major disappointed from the 2009 NFL draft class since he seriously regressed in 2010. Hopefully, Butler will rebound in 2011. Leigh Bodden and Ty Warren should return for the 2011 NFL season and the defense should be better with the presence of those two players.
However, the youth movement on defense still requires another defensive lineman and 3-4 outside linebackers. Marcell Dareus from Alabama would be a great first round draft selection however he may not be available at the 17th pick in the first round. The New England Patriots need 3-4 outside linebackers who can set the edge in the running game while applying pressure on the quarterback in the passing game. Jeremy Beal from Oklahoma and/or Sam Acho from Texas could be welcome additions to the 2011 Patriots defense.
NFL Draft Scout----Powered By: The Sports Xchange
NFL Draft Scout----Powered By: The Sports Xchange
Tully Banta-Cain, who turns 32 years of age prior to the 2011 NFL season, and Eric Moore, who turns 30 years of age prior to the 2011 NFL season, are not the long term solutions at the 3-4 outside linebacker positions.
With regard to the divisional playoff game against the NY Jets, I was emotionally and mentally unprepared for the New England Patriots to lose.