PatsPropaganda

An Independent Patriots Blog

Training Camp 2013

by

On a lighter note, members of the team’s ground crew were watering down a patch of grass behind one of the team’s two practice fields, likely in anticipation of a rookie “slip-n-slide” that takes place annually. Rookies typically are charged with the task of recovering a “fumble” while sliding through the soggy grass, a fun way to mix up practice a bit (except not fun for the rookies).

Amendola not spotted at practice – New England Patriots Blog – ESPN Boston

Hope the rooks are ready for some haircuts today!!

https://www.patspropaganda.com/on-a-lighter-note-members-of-the-teams-ground/

12 takeaways from win over Bucs – New England Patriots Blog – ESPN Boston

by

12 takeaways from win over Bucs – New England Patriots Blog – ESPN Boston

Amendola was the best receiver on the field Friday night, and he showed off what makes him unique as a player: his precise route running, stop-on-a-dime quickness with the ball in his hands, and the ability to stress a defense up the field as well. Amendola snuck behind the defense on a post for a score, and the spacing on the route was an important takeaway. The 2013 version of the Patriots offense, at least in early viewings, has shown an ability to spread a defense thin both horizontally and vertically. They have some perimeter presence with Aaron Dobson and Kenbrell Thompkins, but also some slot stressers in Amendola and the tight ends. This isn’t to say that this year’s offense will be better than last year’s, just different.

by

Brandon Spikes – Linebacker is a tone-setter on defense. His steamrolling of Buccaneers running back Doug Martin to register a sack on the Buccaneers first play is impressive. Few players, if any, hit harder.

Ups and downs for Patriots – New England Patriots Blog – ESPN Boston

We’ve given Spikes some criticism over the last week, but last night was a good reminder that Spikes is an absolute force in the run game. How many players can you call an “absolute force”? Not many. 

https://www.patspropaganda.com/brandon-spikes-linebacker-is-a-tone-setter-on/

by

The third-year running back out of Cal has moved effortlessly into the role of third-down back/joker, and continues to not only flash an ability to run the ball when needed, but also show versatility as a pass catcher. Friday night against the Bucs, he played well after most of the rest of the starters were removed, and ended up with eight touches (four carries for 29 yards, four receptions for 46 yards) and 75 yards from scrimmage. In all, he’s touched the ball 13 times in two preseason games and come away with 105 yards from scrimmage – a whopping average of eight yards per attempt.

Really excited by how smooth Shane Vereen has looked. Danny Woodwhat?

patriots – What we learned: Preseason football a game of chance for many – WEEI | Christopher Price

https://www.patspropaganda.com/the-third-year-running-back-out-of-cal-has-moved/

W2W4: Five things we’ll be focused on – New England Patriots Blog – ESPN Boston

by

W2W4: Five things we’ll be focused on – New England Patriots Blog – ESPN Boston

Good list, and I’ll certainly be focused on all the rookies who get in, especially in the early going. Some other things I’ll be watching:

– the pass rush, from both the edges and inside, especially on early downs. Can Tommy Kelly continue to be a force next to Wilfork? 

– the backup defensive tackles, especially Foston, Grissom and Vellano. None blew me away upon the re-watch. Vellano is a try-hard type and did a good job holding his ground, can he do it again?

– the safety play, especially with Devin McCourty likely to sit again. Can Duron Harmon build on some of the good things he did last week? Can Tavon Wilson start to make some noise? The safety position seems to be still very much up in the air after McCourty.