Archives for October 23, 2014

It’s an interesting question because if the Patriots defense doesn’t generate pressure against these quarterbacks, they’re going to get lit up. I don’t believe that Belichick will suddenly start running all kinds of crazy blitzes, but we have seen him get creative in year’s past when pressure is a problem. And without Chandler Jones it could certainly be a problem.

We’ve seen occasional slot corner blitzes this year, along with the usual dose of linebackers blitzing when the running back stays in to block (called a Green Dog). I’m sure we could see a little more of that, especially from Hightower and Collins.

But it seems clear that at least for the next few weeks, the secondary is the point of strength on this defense so I think they’ll play to that, using Revis/Browner outside, Arrington/Dennard inside, Chung/Wilson in the box, McCourty/Harmon on the back end.

Touched on this earlier this week a bit, but I think there’s a few things at work here.

First, is that the loudest voices in Boston sports, especially those on the radio, are driven by getting listeners and readers. Insightful football analysis and calm, “stay the course” perspectives don’t ignite a passionate fire in people that has them calling into the station and ranting online.

It’s the old Howard Stern thing – people who hate him listen much longer than those who love him. So it’s important to understand that’s their game and it’s an effective one.

As for the fans, everyone “enjoys” sports in their own way. Whether you just want to bitch about players, coaches, performance, etc. or praise them, all sides are valid. That’s what sports are for and of course, everyone is generally happy when they win. 

I gave up trying to talk people out of being miserable every time the Patriots lose a game or don’t beat a “bad” team by enough. It’s just how they “enjoy” the game and I really have no problem with it.

For me, I loved playing sports growing up and loved being part of the ups-and-downs in the journey toward trying to win a championship. I am constantly striving to understand the game better and to accurately and fairly analyze what the team does well and what they need to improve.

I don’t aim for cheap page views by writing “It’s time for the Patriots to trade Tom Brady” posts. I’m sure I could get a lot more traffic if I went that route, but that’s not the perspective I enjoy and not one I wish to try and fake.

The biggest truth to me is that each football season is a journey. Every team has those ups and downs, weaknesses and injuries to overcome, and each year we hope they can put it together to win three or four playoff games at the end.

I try to enjoy the regular season because if your enjoyment of football hinges on how the team does in the playoffs you’re probably going to be disappointed every year. 

Enjoy the journey, not the destination. RIght?

I’ll let this tweet from @DeeepThreat answer that…

Tom Brady Passing on Deep Throws First 4 gms: 4-27, 105 yds, 0 TD, 1 INT, 15.2 rating Last 3 gms: 14-24, 387 yds, 4 TD 0 INT, 173.4 rating

— Deep Threat (@DeeepThreat) October 23, 2014

I’ve heard/seen it all and really, I understand why people see Talib’s aggressive style and might prefer it, but I think it’s not time to worry about Revis. His season will be defined by the next six games with the Patriots, not his tardiness or somewhat up and down performances so far this season (and make no mistake, there has been plenty of “up”).

Without Chandler Jones and Jerod Mayo there will be enormous pressure put on this secondary. They’re facing an unrelenting list of great receivers and quarterbacks. So the table is set for Revis. 

Let’s see how he does vs. Marshall, Demaryius, Reggie/TY, Calvin and Jordy before we get too concerned with what Revis’ future with the Pats will be.

He’s a smooth and calm player and that can hurt him a bit when he gives up catches and it’s easy to say he’s not trying. But let’s remember the kind of trouble that Talib’s aggression has gotten him into – injuries and meltdowns (see at Panthers last year).

I’ll reserve judgement on Revis until we see him tested against the best. Until then, there will be great football games to enjoy.