PatsPropaganda

An Independent Patriots Blog

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The most impressive facet of the Patriots’ 31-22 victory over the Eagles was the play of New England’s offensive line. Outside of third-stringer Will Svitek having to start at right guard, the unit was sensational in both phases of the game. The running holes were huge, and Tom Brady and Ryan Mallett had clear passing lanes. This is the first time in a few years the Patriots have stability on the offensive line, and the unit should be one of the league’s best. Nate Solder, Logan Mankins, underrated Ryan Wendell and Sebastian Vollmer are healthy and playing at a high level.

Blaine Gabbert, Philip Rivers, Chance Warmack and more early preseason observations | The MMQB with Peter King

https://www.patspropaganda.com/the-most-impressive-facet-of-the-patriots-31-22/

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We’ve touched on the athleticism of linebacker Jamie Collins, the Patriots’ top draft pick, and we got a good look at a different element of his game on Wednesday – power. In 7-on-7 passing drills in the red zone, Collins was called upon to cover tight end Tom Crabtree and his powerful jam knocked Crabtree off his route, effectively disrupting the timing of the play as the pass fell incomplete. The jam not only seemed to impact Crabtree, but also another receiver who was aligned on the left side who was forced to alter his route.

Observations: Day 3 of Tampa week – New England Patriots Blog – ESPN Boston

https://www.patspropaganda.com/weve-touched-on-the-athleticism-of-linebacker/

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Tommy Kelly: Had a sack of Freeman in 11-on-11 work for a second consecutive day. The Patriots aren’t used to getting a consistent pass-rush from the defensive tackle spot, so Kelly’s emergence has been key. They are razor thin at defensive tackle right now, but with a healthy Kelly and Wilfork anchoring things in the middle, they’re in great shape.

Training camp stock report: Tommy Kelly could be missing piece for Patriots pass rush – Going Deep – Boston.com

https://www.patspropaganda.com/tommy-kelly-had-a-sack-of-freeman-in-11-on-11/

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Not a bad day for the defensive backs. After a down day, Aqib Talib bounced back and fared well against the Buccaneers receivers, and recorded an interception. Logan Ryan and Marquice Cole also had interceptions. Steve Gregory dropped an interception. Ryan could have added another interception in one-on-ones, but he never located the ball until it hit him in the chest.

New England Patriots training camp notes: Brandon Spikes returns to practice | masslive.com

Every report of good pass rush pressure or secondary play is a huge positive.

https://www.patspropaganda.com/not-a-bad-day-for-the-defensive-backs-after-a/

Do you think this defense is better than the 07-08 Patriots. I really like Collins versatility and Chanler Jones is making the leap Plus is one of the youngest defenses in the NFL. The offense has always been a threat I think this is the year of the 4 ring

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It’s a good question but they’re definitely different defenses. The 07 defense was a veteran-laden crew, clearly trending downwards. A lot of their deficiencies were hidden by the fact that the offense was putting up record amounts of points in nearly every game.

The defense now is younger, but trending upward, so I guess in some respects the comparison is pretty close. You’re right, Jones needs to make the leap to close the gap. The other big hole I see is the lack of a Rodney Harrison. McCourty and Adrian Wilson should combine to bring some of Hot Rod’s fire and leadership, but the back end of the pass defense has never been as bad as it was the last two seasons.

I’ve followed this defensive transition very closely since 2008, it was really a huge impetus when I started blogging about the team, and I think they’ve gone about it the right way. The full turnover was inevitable, and now there are plenty of high-round picks who have gained experience playing together and on big stages.

I have a lot of confidence that this defense is going to take a big step this year, and as I’ve said many times this offseason, go from a defense that just doesn’t lose games to one that actually can win games.

Brady could practice tomorrow

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So there’s that. And even if he doesn’t, it seems like he should be fine for Week 1. Still, would love to see him continue to get as much work with these new receivers as possible. 

Looks like for about two hours today the Bills, Jets and Dolphins got as close as they’ll get to an AFC East championship this season.