lolTomBrady

[Desan]

Still the system would need a complete overhaul if Manning got hurt. It wouldn't even be the same system. Pats will still be very similiar because they were planning on running it more this year anyways. It might just cut down on passing for the next couple weeks or they might keep it the same to surpise the Jets.

 

[Shyrra]

Well, I guess we can agree to disagree until we get a bit more proof over the next few weeks

 

[Airou]

I agree with you that they'll be asking Cassel to just not lose, but you missed my point that the Pats don't have a strong enough D to win a game on defense/running game, with Cassel just managing.

The Pats ranked 4th in the league in Total Defense last year, and that was with the explosive, quick scoring offense that they had, which gave opposing teams more chances to try and score, as opposed to an offense that grinds out time on the clock.

I dont see how you can say theyre D isnt strong enough.

 

[Shyrra]

The Pats ranked 4th in the league in Total Defense last year, and that was with the explosive, quick scoring offense that they had, which gave opposing teams more chances to try and score, as opposed to an offense that grinds out time on the clock.

I dont see how you can say theyre D isnt strong enough.

Their numbers as the season went on last year got progressively worse. By the postseason their defense was almost a liability.

Also, the fact that their offense was so unstoppable caused people to play a different game on their offense as well. They felt they HAD to score a touchdown each possession, which can change the way you run your offense.

 

[Airou]

Liability? They allowed fewer points per game then any other team in the postseason... Not to mention in the red zone more often then not they held teams to just a field goal..

Correction: They allowed .1 more points per game then the Giants, who allowed the fewest PPG.

 

[Shyrra]

Liability? They allowed fewer points per game then any other team in the postseason... Not to mention in the red zone more often then not they held teams to just a field goal..

Correction: They allowed .1 more points per game then the Giants, who allowed the fewest PPG.

They were a statistical anomaly, lol. I can't honestly prove it, but they were just the epitome of "bend but don't break" They would let people drive into their red-zone and they'd tighten up and hold them there. Again, the difference without Tom Brady will be an increase in the pressure on their defense to hold tight. If they don't hold em to a field goal, then it's not as likely with Cassel that the O will go right out there and match the TD.

 

[Airou]

At the end of the day, all that matters is points. If the defense can hold opponents to 16 points per game this season, i like their chances.

 

[Shyrra]

At the end of the day, all that matters is points. If the defense can hold opponents to 16 points per game this season, i like their chances.

There's no arguing that, but it's hard to say how much a huge step down offensively can effect they dynamic of your defense, you know? Especially a defense that so expertly employs the "bend but don't break" strategy.

 

[Strid]

Bah anyone who rejoices in a players injury isn't much of a fan imo.

To be honest, he probably could have prevented this injury. Serves him right for bein' a dumb ass with the mentality that he's above wearin' the very knee brace that could have prevented this. I can't believe Pats' management didn't make him wear one. I can't think of a decent QB off-hand that DOESN'T wear a knee brace for their plant leg.