Big Ben is the Best Quarterback of All Time…

Not even close!

Now that I have your attention let me take the time to dispel any momentum in this whole 3 Super Bowl ring nonsense. I am not about to run through the directory of quarterbacks that are better than Big Ben of all time, rather just today in the NFL. Here is the relatively short list in my opinion.

Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers, Phillip Rivers, and who the hell am I forgetting?

Tom Brady, you may have heard of him.

People, stop with the comparisons of rings! It’s absolute nonsense. To go off of Super Bowl rings and that achievement alone, is the equivalent of not watching your favorite team every week, and just reading the box scores! Think about it.

Barry Sanders- No Ring

Randy Moss- No Ring

Dan Marino- No Ring

Those three alone should tell you how you can’t possibly evaluate talent based on super bowl rings. Arguably the best at their given position depending on your opinion/homerism/man crush (hey Dan). 

This article is in no way trying to bash Roethlisberger. I am a huge fan of his, maybe not as much as the midwest college scene is, but a fan nonetheless. I think he is very good at what he does; extends plays, keeps his eyes downfield, scrambles and runs when he needs to. I just don’t think he is elite. There are two, possibly three elite quarterbacks in this league right now. Rodgers current playoff run is very impressive and he has all the tools to be an elite NFL quarterback. I think that Ben is a very good quarterback, nothing more, nothing less.

Roethlisberger had a great defense his whole career and that defense has helped him to a 10-2 playoff record. Extremely impressive. He makes big plays when it counts and isn’t afraid to take shots in big games. However, you can’t look at what he’s done from a box score perspective and say that he is even close to Tom Brady. Tom is just more talented, bottom line.

As much as I hate to agree with Callahan from WEEI,he said something that resonated with me this morning.  When comparing quarterbacks the easiest assessment can be done with the eyeball test. Very true, and in this specific case it fits perfectly. Both QB’s are playing in the same era at the same time. They’ve played against each other. If you took someone who has never watched a game of football in their life (Joe Buck maybe) sat them down and made them watch film there is no question they would say Brady.

I’ve spent too many words on this already, and I am aware that most educated sports fans know this. I just needed to get this off my chest because the Super Bowl Ring and box score perspective is something that I am personally sick of. I get that goal in the game of football is to win the Championship. However, in the ultimate team sport you cannot place that much weight on an achievement when evaluating talent.

 Are you going to watch the Super Bowl, or read the newspaper on February 7th?

In Belichick We Trust

I know everyone and their cousin is saying that the Patriots are going to stomp on the Jets today and a big part of me feels that way as well.  However, I’m nervous as hell.  Everyone thought that the Pats were going to smack around the Giants in the Super Bowl a few years back…we all painfully know the result of that.  The only thing keeping me sane the last few days is that I’m 99.9% certain that Bill Belichick would NEVER let his team get into the hype of being such a heavy favorite.  I think it would be even more true now that they have such a major core of young impact players.

Is this going to be another 45-3 drubbing?  Not even close.  However, I wouldn’t hate that because I did take the Patriots (-10) and the over (45).  I do see this being a little bit closer but the Pats offense need to continue to hold onto the ball and avoid any and all turnovers.  The Moss-less New England Patriots are built on ball control and that trend needs to continue.  As long as this young defense minimizes their mistakes and forces Mark Sanchez to make his own miscues this game will turn out just fine.  The defense, as it has been all year, will be the ultimate wild card.

PS…I keep thinking “In Belichick we trust.“  That’s the only thing getting me through the day…

Why the Patriots Won’t Get Randy Moss Back

According to various reports, the Minnesota Vikings have waived Randy Moss one day after his return to Foxboro to play the Patriots.  After the game Randy delivered a press conference for the ages in which he unequivocally stated his love for the New England organization.  Rumor is the Vikings weren’t happy with his press conference and they weren’t happy that he didn’t fly home with the team and instead stayed in Boston to be with his family.  Some have said that because Moss wasn’t officially on the waiver report today, that the Vikings may have reconsidered but Moss said he doesn’t want to be apart of that locker room so long as Brad Childress is in the locker room.

Many in the New England area, (who were so quick to bash Moss after he left) are already yelling for him to come back.  We know Randy would love to come back “home” but does the Kraft family or Coach Belichick want him back?  Moss would have to clear waivers of every team in the league even before the Patriots make their decision to claim him.  It is not often that a Hall of Fame caliber player is just there for the taking.

Moss is a game changer.  If he isn’t lighting up the stat sheet, he at least forces defenses to shift their focus solely on him.  In New England he freed up Wes Welker to do the damage he caused.  Since Moss left Welker has been a non factor.  Once Moss arrived in Minnesota, Percy Harvin was the beneficiary.  Harvin lit up opposing teams because all the focus was on covering Moss.

Moss still has tremendous value on the field. But he has shown his true colors this season, in being outspoken about getting a long term contract to his liking.  No team has stepped up and offered him that and for some reason he is feeling as if his employment is insecure.  Here is a look at the 32 teams and whether they will give Randy a chance. Teams in bold are teams that I feel actually have an interest in Moss.

No win teams

Buffalo- They are 0-7 and playing for draft picks. No point in them taking the salary on as a 9 week rental.

One win teams

Carolina- The Panthers are trying to rebuild and bringing the aging veteran will do them no good

Dallas- I’d venture to say the Cowboys would give Moss a look to make up for not drafting him years ago.  But they already have plenty of depth at wideout in Miles Austin, Roy Williams, and Dez Bryant. I wouldn’t put anything past Jerry Jones.

Two win teams

Cincinnati- They already have two head cases at wide out that have caused Carson Palmer enough grief.  They don’t need a third.

Cleveland- The Browns aren’t going anywhere this season and theres no need to bring in more salary.

Denver- The Broncos passing attack isn’t the problem.  They need a running game.

Minnesota- They had enough of him after three weeks and caused this post happen.

Detroit- As much as I would love to see Randy and Megatron on the same team, it’s not going to happen.

San Francisco- The NFC West is the worst in football and is still up for grabs.  San Fran needs another wideout opposite Crabtree to compliment Gore and Vernon Davis.

Three win teams

San Diego- Phillip Rivers is dying for someone to throw to other than Antonio Gates.  Yes Vincent Jackson is coming back but who knows what kind of shape he will be in?

Arizona- The Cardinals don’t have anyone that can get the ball to Larry Fitzgerald so what’s the point in bringing in Moss?

Four win teams

Miami- The Dolphins have a strong receiving corps in Marshall, Hartline, and Davone Bess. Marshall has already complained about not getting the ball enough.  This wouldn’t be a good fit.

Indianapolis- They have been hurt by the injury bug losing Clark, Collie, and Garcon.  Giving Peyton Manning Randy Moss opposite Reggie Wayne would be devastating to the rest of the AFC.

Houston- The Texans problems aren’t on the offensive side of the ball.  No need for Moss here.

Jacksonville- The Jaguars need a top receiver.  Mike Sims-Walker is not going to cut it if the Jaguars want to make a run at a wide open division title.

Oakland- Will Al Davis want to bring back Moss? The Raiders are in the conversation for a division title.  We know Al Davis loves big names.

Philadelphia- The Eagles have a strong receiving corps with Desean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin.

Washington- Donovan McNabb desperately needs someone to compliment Santana Moss.  Santana is more of a possession receiver and would greatly benefit from Randy’s presence. Daniel Snyder would be more than happy to fork over any amount of money to anyone.

Chicago- I’m more than positive Mike Martz is salivating at the present time praying upon prayer that Moss falls into the lap of the Chicago Bears.  With his system, Johnny Knox, Devin Hester, and Earl Bennett don’t cut it for QB Jay Cutler.

Seattle- I don’t think I can name 5 guys on this roster.  But they already did part ways with Deon Branch with the theory being they had depth at the position already.

St Louis- Rookie Sam Bradford lost his number one receiver Donnie Avery in the preseason, then lost his number one during the season in Mark Clayton.  Now his number one is Danny Amendola.  Yeah, the Rams could use Moss.

Five win teams

New York Jets- The Jets would do anything to stick it to the Pats especially after the Pats swooped in and claimed Danny Woodhead.  They don’t necessarily need him but they will take him just to mess with New England.

Baltimore- The Ravens are doing just fine right now.  Boldin is a beast, Rice is coming back into form, and the defense is stellar.

Pittsburgh- The Steelers would be an interesting landing spot for Randy.  Mike Wallace has been ok opposite Hines Ward but Moss would make Pittsburgh very dangerous.

Tennessee- Kenny Britt went down with a hamstring injury a week after exploding onto the scene with 3 touchdowns and over 200 yards receiving.  The Titans have never had a big name receiver and may be intrigued by Moss.

Kansas City- The Old Patriot regime would surely like to bring in Moss opposite Dwayne Bowe to give Matt Cassell another weapon.

New York Giants- The Giants have no need for another receiver as they already have Nicks, Smith, and Manningham.

Green Bay- While the Packers are walking wounded, their receiving corps hasn’t been hit by the injury bug yet.

Atlanta- The Falcons may give Moss a look to alleviate some of the pressure on Roddy White.  White is targeted the most week in and week out.  Imagine the stress Moss would induce upon defensive coordinators opposite Roddy?

Tampa Bay- Normally, I’d suggest Randy Moss to the surprising Bucs.  But I feel Raheim Morris and company are confident they can get to the playoffs with their team as is.

New Orleans- Drew Brees can make anyone good and receiving isn’t the problem in The Big Easy.  They need their backfield to get healthy.

And that leaves us with…

New England-I don’t see Moss passing all the aforementioned teams in the waiver process.  No shot in hell.  But if for some reason he does I do think Belichick would take Moss back with the understanding that there is no contract extension.  I do think that the Pats don’t need him back.  In fact I have long said that the Pats are a better team without him.  And they have backed me up on that going 3-0 without him.  To be honest however, I would like to see Randy back in Foxboro just because I’m a sucker for the drama of it all.

 

 

 

 

 

Week 8 – The Mattyoshow Review

In this segment I will provide a weekly review for the previous weekend’s Patriots game, as well as my prediction for next weekend’s game.

-If you told me before Sunday’s game that the Patriots would hold Adrian Peterson to 92 yards (with one touchdown) on 25 carries, I would have considered that a solid performance by the Pats’ defense, predictably en route to a New England victory.  After watching Sunday’s game, I would call their performance against Peterson and the Vikes’ rushing attack much more than solid, it was downright impressive.  It’s not the total that I am concerned with, as 92 yards for most rushers in the NFL would be a good day.  The most important number to look at is Peterson’s longest carry on the day went for 9 yards.  Adrian Peterson has a history of punishing defenses in between the tackles, and when he eventually breaks a run outside, it goes for big yardage.  Well, not on Sunday.  Limiting Peterson’s big-play ability was the most instrumental part leading to a Patriots’ win against the Vikings.

-After being limited to 44 yards in his last two games combined, BenJarvus Green-Ellis broke out in a big way Sunday, rushing for a career high 112 yards on 17 carries, and pounding in two touchdowns (the last of which sealed a Patriots win).  Green-Ellis’ play has been limited recently with the emergence of Danny Woodhead as a viable backfield option, but with a lead in the fourth quarter the Patriots turned to Green-Ellis to control the clock and bring home the win.  BenJarvus did just that, continuosly running the ball very effectively late in the game, burning down the clock and bringing the Pats into scoring position.  I loved the attitude that BenJarvus ran with on Sunday.  Hopefully Belichick doesn’t pull his usual nonsense and Green-Ellis will see somewhere in the vicinity of 20 carries next week at Cleveland.

-For the fourth game in a row Jerod Mayo has been the Patriots best defensive player.  In my “What to look for…” segment last week, I highlighted the Mayo-Peterson matchup, explaining that the battle between those two may very well decide the outcome of the game.  On Sunday, Jerod Mayo won the battle.  He amassed 14 combined tackles (7 solo, 7 assisted), making key plays all over the field.  The most impressive of his plays came in an Adrian Peterson touchdown run.  Mayo hurdled several linemen to whack Peterson mid-air, causing his forward movement to stop completely and actually sending him about one foot backwards.  The touchdown call was upheld in a review (which I still disagree with), but that play was eerily reminiscent of Tedy Bruschi flying over offensive lineman in a goal line stance to make a huge hit.

-It seems as though I can’t go even one “Mattyoshow Review” without mentioning Devin McCourty.  This kid impresses me on a weekly basis.  McCourty ended Sunday’s game with four tackles and one interception.  McCourty has now recorded in interception in two consecutive weeks.  The interception came late in the third quarter.  The Pats were up 14-10, but the Vikes were driving down the field.  As Harvin caught the ball and was falling to the ground, McCourty ripped the ball from his hands and returned the pick 37 yards down the field (outrunning the speedy Harvin the entire way).  This play was huge in terms of momentum in the game and his own personal development.  What might have been even more impressive than that interception is that McCourty had to leave the game for one play after getting the wind knocked out of him.  That was the first and only defensive snap that McCourty has missed the entire season.  Pretty damn impressive for a rookie…

-As I am writing this post I received a wonderful text message informing me that THE MINNESOTA VIKINGS HAVE WAIVED RANDY MOSS!  This isn’t the time for me to start ranting about how the Patriots should sign him back immediately, but it is a great segue for my next point.  Ever since the Randy Moss trade was completed, I have failed to see a viable option on this team as a deep threat.  I’ve said it before and I’ll continue to say it, Brandon Tate isn’t really what we thought he was going to be after the departure of Moss (and yes, I did see his 65 yard touchdown catch, but the credit for that play falls solely onto Tom Brady).  Deion Branch looks slow out there.  He finds soft spots in zones and makes plays, but he isn’t burning guys deep.  Welker hasn’t been very productive since Moss left.  Hernandez has played great, but he’s not a vertical guy.  Who else do you turn to?  Brady threw for 240 yards and a touchdown.  With Moss leaving, I can say that I was ready to turn my back on the days of Brady airing it out 50 times for 400 yards, but throwing for 200 yards every week isn’t going to consistently get it done.

-NEXT WEEK’S PREDICTION – Patriots 27 – Browns 13

What to Look For…

The New England Patriots are off to a somewhat surprising 5-1 start (tied for the division lead) and look to continue to build on the success and the development of their young players as the season progresses.  Contrarily, the Minnesota Vikings are off to a disappointing 2-4 start (3^rd place in the NFC North) and are hoping that week 8 marks the beginning of their turnaround.  Here are a few things to look for during Sunday’s Patriots vs. Vikings game:

-How could I start this segment without mentioning Randy Moss?  Moss returns to New England, just four weeks after being traded to Minnesota for a 2010 third round pick.  There are a ton of questions swirling about Moss’ return.  Will he give the Vikings some of the Pats’ defensive calls/signals?  Will he be applauded or booed?  How will coach Belichick and Brady greet Moss after the game?  But the most important question in my mind is how will the Patriots’ game plan and coverage schemes look against Randy Moss.  As I continuously say every week, this secondary is very young and although they get a bit better every week, are guys like Devin McCourty and Kyle Arrington ready to individually handle Randy Moss?  I look for a safety to be over the top of Moss all game.  But, one thing we can be sure of is that coach Belichick will have a great game plan on how to contain Moss.  What to look for: What defensive schemes the Patriots’ defense uses to minimize the “Moss-effect.”

-Speaking of game plan, how can you create a game plan for a guy like Adrian Peterson.  Peterson is a one of a kind, once in a generation type of back.  His combination of speed, strength, desire, determination, and just downright pissed-offness (yup, made that one up) is unlike anything that the Patriots have or will see.  Peterson runs harder than any back that I have ever watched play the game.  The key with him is that every year he seems to be amongst the league leaders in yards after contact.  It takes two, three, and sometimes four defenders to take Peterson down.  Tackling will be huge in this game, and I look for Jerod Mayo to lead the charge in attempting to contain Adrian Peterson.  What to look for: How the Patriots’ defense performs against one of the best running backs in the league.

-Last week the Patriots passing offense did not perform up to its usual standards.  I am completely aware that even soon to be Hall of Fame quarterback is allowed to have a bad week once and a great while, but if you put two performances together like that back-to-back, then I begin to worry.  I stand by my notion that this offense seriously lacks a deep threat (with both of the longest passes in each game going to Hernandez, where the yardage was attributed mainly to yards after the catch).  Brandon Tate hasn’t done anything since Moss left.  Deion Branch has been a pleasant surprise, but his production has led to a serious decline in Welker’s impact.  No one seems to be able to get behind the defense (Taylor Price earned co-practice player of the week honors this past week, maybe signaling some upcoming playing time for the young speedster out of Ohio), which after a couple of weeks of film, and safeties creeping closer to the line of scrimmage, will hurt this Patriots’ offense.  What to look for: How the offense continues to evolve, now four weeks (and three games) after the departure of Randy Moss.

-Speaking of practice player of the week awards, Price received the honors along with practice squad corner Tony Carter and the ever-elusive corner Darius Butler.  Butler’s role in the defense has basically dwindled to nothing ever since his disappointing performance in week 1 against the Cincinnati Bengals.  Butler’s playing time has essentially been limited to dime or quarters packages (6 or 7 defensive backs on the field).  This has been a major disappointment, especially for me because I really thought that Butler was primed to have a big season.  Receiving recognition for his work in practice may be the first step towards getting back on the field and having a real impact on this defense.  What to look for: How much playing time Darius Butler gets after a great week in practice, and against a talented Minnesota receiving corps.

-I wouldn’t be happy with myself as a source of information and wisdom if I didn’t at least touch on the Brett Favre situation in this post.  We all have heard it a thousand times, Favre is an iron man.  He plays through injuries that other guys would be out weeks with.  Yes, 291 straight starts is very, very impressive.  I’ve got it.  Sadly, Mr. Favre, you playing this week against the New England Patriots is NOT in the best interest of your team.  In 2007, Tavaris Jackson started 12 games (essentially his one season as a starter).  Jackson threw for almost 2,000 yards (with a 58.2% completion percentage), with 9 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.  He also rushed for 260 yards and 3 touchdowns.  Jackson compiled a passer rating of 70.8.  In 2010, Brett Favre, through 6 games, has thrown for almost 1,200 yards (with a 58.1% completion percentage), with 7 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.  Favre has compiled a passer rating of 68.0.  After looking over those stats, let me restate what I said earlier: Sadly, Mr. Favre, you playing this week against the New England Patriots is NOT in the best interest of your team.  What to look for: How the whole Brett Favre/Brad Childress/Tavaris Jackson/Jen Sterger/Roger Goodell/Scottie (oh sorry, nix that last one) saga plays out.

-THIS WEEK’S PREDICTION – Patriots 35 – Vikings 34

What to Look For…

Sunday’s game against the Ravens presents a huge challenge for the New England Patriots.  A challenge that could give us fans a great sense of where our team stands, in terms of stacking up against the best competition.  Before the season started, I picked the Ravens to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl.  The way that they have played so far this season, I am very confident in my prediction.  I look forward to seeing if the Patriots are legitimate contenders to go deep into the playoffs, or if 2010 is looking like 2009 all over again.  Here are some things to look for while you watch the game:

-How can I not start this post by mentioning Randy Moss?  I love when the Pats get national media coverage, but this whole Moss situation is getting a bit over analyzed.  If I have to hear Trey Wingo ask Mark “I think I’m the greatest offensive lineman of all time because I blocked for John Elway” Schlereth if the Patriots’ offense is better without Randy Moss one more time, I might lose my mind.  We get it guys, you don’t want to talk about Favre any more than we want to hear you talk about it, but that doesn’t mean talk about the Pats for 25 minutes.  Let’s be rational for a minute.  There is not shot that the loss of arguably the greatest downfield receiver of all time makes your offense better.  But, the beauty of having one of the greatest head coaches of all time on the sidelines is that, as an offense, you can adapt.  I’m very interested to see how much extra coverage is now shifted towards Wes Welker.  What to look for: How the offense evolves and operates in the post-Randy Moss era.

-In last season’s playoff game the Ravens torched the Pats for 234 yards on the ground.  New England has no shot to even compete in this game if they give up over 230 yards on the ground again.  But, I’m not as worried about the run game as I am about their passing attack.  I think that coach Belichick still has a bad taste in his mouth about that playoff game last season, so stopping the run looks to be priority number one.  The real question is who is going to stop Anquan Boldin, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, and Derrick Mason?  As I’ve stated many, many times, I love what McCourty brings to the table.  The kid is big and physical in both the pass and run game, and he can run with the best of them.  But, as physical as McCourty is, he is no match for Boldin.  Boldin is the most physical receiver in the game, by far.  What to look for: How the young secondary of the Patriots matches up against the physical passing attack of the Ravens.

-Two weeks ago against the Dolphins, the Patriots’ offensive line showed their first signs of pass protection issues.  The Dolphins racked up three sacks on Brady.  The same Dolphins team that is tied for 18^th in the league with only 9 sacks so far on the season.  If there is one thing that we can all be certain of come Sunday is that the Ravens are going to bring pressure, and lots of it.  Whether it is Terrell Suggs, Ray Lewis, a cornerback, safety, who knows maybe even Harbaugh will try to get in on the action, they are going to be blitzing like crazy.  I’ve been notoriously tough on Matt Light.  This is Light’s week to shine.  It’s not a stereotypical matchup with a guy like Dwight Freeney, where he puts his hand in the dirt and you know he is coming every play.  Light (and Vollmer on the other side) is going to have to adjust on the fly.  Guys will be showing the blitz and then dropping back.  They will be playing that crazy defense where everyone just walks around the line prior to the snap, when it is then determined who will blitz.  It’s going to be crucial for the Patriots’ success for the offensive line to play well.  What to look for: How the Patriots offensive line withstands the pressure that the Ravens’ defense will bring against the pass.

-My two favorite players in the NFL are Ray Lewis and Patrick Willis, hands down.  I’m a middle linebacker at heart.  I’ve played the position, I’ve studied the position, I respect the position, and I love the position.  Lewis and Willis are two of the fiercest competitors and meanest guys in the league.  Those two will not hesitate to send a receiver or running back into the hospital for a few nights with a bone crushing hit.  What often gets over looked with those two, especially Ray Lewis, is how intelligent they are on the field.  Watching Ray Lewis and Peyton Manning go shot for shot switching offensive plays and defensive coverages is a highlight for me every season.  The same holds true when the Ravens and Patriots face off.  Tom Brady calls out the “mike” (strong side linebacker) on every single play.  Expect Ray Lewis to counter those calls with blitz adjustments and switching coverage schemes.  What to look for: The pre-play mental battle between Tom Brady and Ray Lewis, and who ultimately gets the edge.

-THIS WEEK’S PREDICTION: Ravens 24 – Patriots 20

Taking a Look into the Future

Devastation has run rampant throughout New England.  Randy Moss is gone and not coming back.  I know it hurts to hear, but it’s time to face reality.  Bill Belichick, the coach that we have all come to know and love, is a realist.  He realized that after this season Randy Moss would no longer be a member of the New England Patriots.  At the conclusion of the 2010 season, Belichick would say goodbye to one of the greatest receivers in NFL history and receive nothing in return for him.  So, similar to the scenario that unfolded with Richard Seymour a year ago, coach Belichick decided to pull the trigger and get value for an expiring asset.  Don’t get me wrong, the Patriots are certainly worse off without Moss this season.  But, that is when you have to broaden your horizons and take a look at the big picture.

The constant need for positive results sometimes puts blinders on us as fans.  This isn’t the same team with the same philosophy as the Pats of the early 2000’s.  This isn’t even the same team with the same philosophy as the 2007 Patriots.  The 2010 Patriots are a transition team.  The average age of the Pats starting defense is 26.  Offensively, Tom Brady now has two rookie tight ends at his disposal.  Brandon Tate is emerging as a consistent option out wide.  BenJarvus Green-Ellis is putting a strangle hold on the starting running back spot.  The offensive line is the oldest position group on the team, but they are still one of the best units in the league.  This team is transitioning to become more athletic on defense, while more stout and conservative on offense.  The offense’s transition doesn’t mean that no shot will be taken down the field, but that the percentage of underneath routes for Welker, Hernandez, and Gronkowski will increase, while the number of shots down the field for what formerly was Moss’ spot will diminish slightly.

With this Moss deal done, the Patriots now have 10 draft picks in 2011:

-1st Round
-1st Round (OAK – Richard Seymour)
-2nd Round (CAR – 2010 3rd Round)
-2nd Round
-3rd Round (MIN – Randy Moss)
-3rd Round
-4th Round
-4th Round (DEN – Laurence Maroney)
-5th Round
-6th Round (NO – David Thomas)

There was some heat surrounding coach Belichick and his draft struggles from 2006-2008.  I completely agree with questioning some decision in that time period.  But, taking a look at the results from the 2009 and 2010 NFL draft, you have to be much more optimistic about draft day decisions for the Patriots.  The 2009 draft brought the Patriots Pat Chung, Ron Brace, Darius Butler, Sebastian Vollmer, Brandon Tate, Jake Ingram, Myron Pryor, and Julian Edelman, among others.  Those players are all key contributors to the 2010 Patriots.  The 2010 draft brought the Pats Devin McCourty, Rob Gronkowski, Jermaine Cunningham, Brandon Spikes, Aaron Hernandez, and Zoltan Mesko, among others.  These rookies have all made an impact on the team this season, some even have (uncharacteristic in Belichick’s system) starting spots, in McCourty, Cunningham, and Spikes.

When you try and take an unattached, rational look at the deal, you have to be excited about what the future holds.  Eight picks in the first four rounds gives the Pats an opportunity to make huge additions to their team for 2011.  Compile those selections with the last two draft classes and the Patriots now look like one of the best young teams in the league, but a team still led by future Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady.  I’m excited about what the remainder of the 2010 season has in store, as well as the 2011 draft and beyond.

FYI: There is no shot that Vincent Jackson will be a Patriot.  It just doesn’t make any sense.

Randy Moss Reaction

What did anyone expect?  Honestly, is this really as shocking as most are making it out to be?  Randy Moss has a new team, that is not as big of a deal as people would like to believe.  Compare it to the Celtics.  Randy Moss was brought to New England with a window of time to get it done (win a championship), and the Patriots came within minutes of reaching that goal.  The next year in 2008 they came in as a favorite to go to the Super Bowl again, then Brady went down in week 1, and although a considerable effort was made by Cassel, 2 years were gone.  Last year the Patriots could not win a game on the road and for that matter could not get it done when they were given a home game in the playoffs, being trampled by Baltimore.  This year was questionable with the contract situations coming into the season.  Everyone expected Brady to get his money, which I still say is well deserved, but based on the numbers Moss has put up this season he must have been looking at Logan Mankins sitting in the midst of his contract dispute knowing that the Patriots were not going to give him the money he wanted.  If I were a betting man I would have to place money on the idea that not only did Randy want this, but unlike his post game interview in week 1, he went quietly to Belichick instead of airing it to the media.  Speaking of the coach, another “Classic Belichick” move done here, trading a 4th round pick to acquire Moss and now dealing him for a 3rd round pick, with rumors, only rumors, of trying to make a move towards Vincent Jackson.  Of course do not be surprised if Bill fields a winning team this year with or without replacing Moss.  From Minnesota, to Oakland, to New England and now back to Minnesota…if Randy Moss is not happy then he is not going to perform.  He may go down as one of, if not the greatest deep threat in the history of the game, but when he is talked about by football historians, his achievements will always be followed with a line somewhere in the realm of, “Buutttt, his attitude was absolutely shitty,” or maybe even, “Those things he did were great, but he started the DIVA phase of wide receivers.”

Week 4 – The Mattyoshow Review

In this segment I will provide a weekly review for the previous weekend’s Patriots game, as well as my prediction for next weekend’s game (except for this week because the Pats are on a bye in week 5).

-Right off of the bat, I was surprised with the starting defensive unit.  Tully Banta-Cain didn’t get the starting nod (as we all would have expected) at outside linebacker.  Instead, the two starters were Jermaine Cunningham and Rob Ninkovich.  According to my sources, the coaching staff hasn’t been very happy with Banta-Cain’s performance and work ethic as of late, so giving away his starting spot may have been a ploy to start a fire under him.  Banta-Cain is arguably the team’s best pass rusher, so any less playing time for him will not benefit the Pats’ defense.

-Speaking of Rob Ninkovich, give that man the game ball.  Ninkovich singlehandedly save the game for the New England Patriots.  The 41-14 final score tends to overshadow how easily the Dolphins were moving the ball in the first half.  Ninkovich’s two interceptions came on two drives where the Dolphins looked certain to score.  Combine the interceptions with a sack and Ninkovich was a huge reason that the Patriots won the game.

-Hopefully Belichick brought two balls to give away in the locker room because Patrick Chung deserves a game ball too.  The 20 year old second year player out of Oregon was lights out on Monday night.  His defensive contributions were good.  He only amassed three tackles, but added a late game interception that put the nail in the coffin.  His contributions on special teams were amazing.  I don’t think that I have ever seen a guy block two kicks in one game.  A blocked field goal (which led to a touchdown) and a blocked punt were hugely pivotal plays in the game.  In my opinion, Patrick Chung and Rob Ninkovich were the sole reasons that the Pats won the game.

-I realize that the offense didn’t have the ball for that much time because of the scoring by the special teams and the defense.  That being said, the passing game didn’t look good.  Tom Brady went 19/24, but racked up only 153 yards and one touchdown.  The Patriots had only two offensive touchdowns, one pass to Woodhead and one rush by BJGE.  In order to win the division and make a run in the playoffs, the Patriots need to be able to rely on their offense for at least 28 points per game.  Consider defensive and special teams scores as added bonuses.  The bye week will help build some more chemistry between Brady and all of his targets, hopefully leading to some huge numbers through the air.

-Vince Wilfork played a lot of the game at the end position.  Today on WEEI, Belichick explained that the Dolphins like to run off tackle plays, which led to the switch putting Wilfork out wide.  Mike Wright played the nose to start the game, with Gerard Warren at the other end.  Right now, Vince Wilfork is the Patriots best defensive player.  If moving Wilfork around means that your defense is better, than I’m all for it.  But, let us not forget that this guy weighs 330lbs. after sitting in a sauna for 24 hours, so playing out wide could lead to him being on the bench catching his breath more than if in the middle.  I like the move, but only in limited instances.

-Chad Henne threw for 300 yards, but most came in garbage time.  The Patriots pass defense played probably their best game all season.  Devon Bess killed them, but when you have so much attention paid towards Brandon Marshall and the run game, someone is going to prosper.  Devin McCourty played well again, but surpisingly Kyle Arrington was matched up against Marshall for the majority of the game.  Marshall finished with only 5 catches for 50 yards, which was a positive sign for a young secondary that has struggles against big, physical recievers.

-Randy Moss trade in the works apparently for a third round pick?  No shot in hell.  If Moss gets moved, it can looked at exactly like the Seymour situation a couple of years ago.  The Patriots may realize that Moss, in the final year of his contract, probably won’t be a member of the team next season, so they will look to move him to get value (ex. Seymour to the Raiders for 2011 1st round pick).  But, they will not move Moss unless they get more than enough compensation (think 1st round pick, or 2nd and 3rd, or something along those lines).

-This was a huge road win for a team that desperately needed it.  I actually wish the Patriots had a game this week just to continue to ride this emotional wave, building on their recent success.  But, with the bye week ahead look for Belichick to get the guys focused their week 6 showdown in Gillette against Baltimore.

Position Rankings (OTA Edition): Wide Receivers

Aside from quarterback, the wide receiver position is the most debated position in the NFL. Whether you have Fitzgerald one, and Andre Johnson two, or whether you still pay homage to Moss and give him the #1 spot, the love affair with this position is never-ending.  Words like diva, prim donna, and even narcissist have been associated with those that play this position. Yet still they are the most loveable and the most hateable players in the NFL.  Chad 85 is no doubt my favorite player in the league from pure spectator standpoint, and while T.O. is as easy to hate as Hitler (too harsh there?), he is no doubt a physical specimen that should be thrusted into the discussion of a top 20 all time athlete. 

In this column, I attempt to rank the wide receiver position in an AFC East that has gone through a complete makeover, most noticeably at this position.  

1) New England Patriots-  I can hear Jets fans cringe and give me a million reasons why they should be number one.  I merely answer in the form of a question, who is YOUR #1?  The New England Patriots have what essentially 30 other team don’t in the NFL, and that is a great quarterback.  With Tom Brady throwing passes, this receiving corps becomes better than everyone in this division and in my opinion, 90% of the league.  Randy Moss will need to be leaned on much more this year, and will have to step up if this team wants to continue to stay atop this division.  Double-teams will not be a surprise as he has been dealing with them since he was drafted.  Julian Edleman has shown signs that he can be arguably as productive as Welker from a reception standpoint.  The areas where he needs to improve are after the catch.  What separates Welker from the rest of the league is his RAC, it is single-handedly the most valuable stat for a receiver when comparing like players.  Losing Welker cannot be ignored, it will hurt, especially on third downs and cheesy awkward furniture commercials.   

The supporting cast for Moss is severely in question by the rest of the league.  Will the two rookie tight ends that New England drafted pan out?  To this question I give an emphatic maybe.   I see Gronkowski out of the Jason Witten mold and Hernandez is sort of a wild card in my opinion.  He isn’t the big target that you want in a tight end, but he makes up for it with athleticism and talent.  Torry Holt is an enigma himself.  Was the awful offense he was a part of in Jacksonville the reason for his poor numbers, is it his age catching up to him, will Tom Brady revive the once stellar career of the most consistent wide out of the early 2000′s?  No one knows the answer to this, but you can’t teach hands, and that will be the last thing to go on an aging wide receiver.  You have to include running backs in this discussion and that is where I think some of the proverbial slack will be picked up.  Kevin Faulk is a very reliable target out of the backfield and should help on those third downs they will miss with a Welker-less cast.

2)  New York Jets-  Now the Dolphins fans start to cringe. I digress, The New York Jets are loaded with weapons.  The biggest issue I have with this position is consistency.  Braylon Edwards is a shell of his 2007 self, and Santonio Holmes still doesn’t get it.  The duo no doubt has the talent and skill set to excel in this league, but they get in their own way when it comes to succeeding.  Edwards has had the drops for the past three seasons and Holmes is turning into the next character spotlight issue.  New York is a much different place than Pittsburg and while Big Ben can fine trouble there, you have to think Holmes will be kept close to his head coaches huge belt.   After exploding onto the scene with his performance in the postseason for the Steelers, former super bowl MVP Santonio Holmes is too good to take off his head phones on a plane?  This doesn’t seem like a big issue I know, but how big of an issue is it to take them off for 10 minutes on a runway?  Holmes needs to grow up fast if he wants to be a star in this league.  His famous, “that’s how you be great” quote after the second best catch in super bowl history, is in complete contradiction to the situation I just mentioned.  A few phrases I can think of in regards to the plane incident; “that’s how you be stupid”, or “that’s how you get fined”, how about  “that’s how you let your team down”.  

 I don’t see a number one receiver on this roster merely two 2′s and a solid three in Cotchery.  Cotchery is very under-valued in my opinion and with a different QB he could put up some serious numbers.  Dustin Keller is key to the success of this group.  He has shown flashes of greatness at the position and has the athleticism to line up all over the field.   His production can take the pressure off of the edges and allow his receivers to flourish.  Ladainian Tomlinson will be a check down machine for Sanchez this season and his addition will help this team convert third downs.   The growth of this group is no doubt stunted by its young quarterback.  The growing pains that he goes through will directly affect this team.  Moving forward I am intrigued to see how both Sanchez grows as a leader, and this wide receiving corps grows as a unit and not as individuals.  The chemistry of this team will be closely watched and it may be the critical factor in the success of this team, or its demise. 

3) Miami Dolphins-  The Dolphins no doubt made the biggest splash this off-season with the addition of Brandon Marshall.  He immediately adds credibility to a group that has had none in the past five seasons.  Marshall is a matchup nightmare and carries the term beast for a reason.  The 6’4″ 230lb target will no doubt help his young quarterback, as well as the rest of his teammates.  Averaging 101 catches in the last three seasons will be challenged this year to a team that has a run first mentality.  It will be interesting to see how offensive coordinator Dan Henning will utilize his new weapon, and try to balance Miami’s offensive attack.

While Marshall’s supporting cast is no doubt weaker than the two teams listed above, the ceiling is also higher in my opinion.  Davone Bess is an amazing slot receiver who should no doubt benefit from the Marshall signing.  He led the Dolphins in receptions last season and is a sure-handed option for Chad Henne.  Bess finished only second to Steve Smith from the New York Giants in third down conversions last season.  Brian Hartline is listed in ESPN’s 3 sophomores to watch list this season for a good reason.  Hartline came on strong last season and made some huge plays for Miami down the stretch.  In my opinion he will win the starting role opposite Marshall this year.  Greg Camarillo will be the fourth option for this unit and while he lacks the physical attributes of the other three in this group, he competes with his hands and non-stop motor.  Camarillo did not drop one pass last season! He most notably made two huge third down catches in the Monday night victory against the Jets on the game winning drive.The tight end position for Miami is a big question mark.  With the huge focus on the running game last season, the tight ends were required to stay in and block most of the time.  They were also left in on passing downs for an extra blocker to give the young quarterback more time to throw.  This season the middle of the field should open up and it is up to Anthony Fasano and Joey Haynos to produce in order to keep defenses honest.  Haynos will be an interesting piece in the passing game this season. He is 6’8″ and has proven to have solid hands.  If his blocking improves it will get him more snaps and opportunities to produce from a receiving standpoint.  Both Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown have contributed in the past as viable options out of the  backfield and that should continue.   Chad Henne now has the weapons in place to show the NFL what he’s got.  This year will prove as a great measuring stick for this young quarterback and his future development.

4) Buffalo Bills- Don’t worry Bills fans, I will be rating the defensive backfield and special teams soon enough.  The Buffalo Bills wide receiving corps have been victim to its bad quarterback play much like the Miami Dolphins in the past.   The Terrell Owens experiment failed miserably last year and Lee Evans has not had a formidable teammate on the other side of him since an aging Eric Moulds.  Evans can be a game changer at times, but there are other times when he fails to show up.  I blame the front office more than anyone for the fall from grace that started in the mid 90′s.  In recent years, this team has not produced an offense with a consistent aerial attack.  Evans has not been able to produce consistently because he has not had a consistent quarterback, or coordinator for that matter.

The second option at receiver for the Bills looks to be in the form of recovering first round pick James Hardy.  Hardy is a huge target at 6’5″ and his torn ACL in week 15 of his rookie season was a huge set back to the receivers development.  Hardy made his way back to the team last season in week 16 and tallied one catch for 9 yards.  This season Hardy, along with the Bills front office, hopes to be that guy across from Evans making an impact.  C.J. Spiller could very well lead this team in receptions this year.  Trent Edwards, if he wins the job, loves to check down to the back, and with Spiller’s explosiveness, he could be the feature in a lot of the Bills packages this season.  The tight ends for this team are a mystery, just like the starter for the upcoming season.