Opening night reviewPage 3 of 19 -- A: I just remember thinking at the time why not just make your picks? Two first-rounders to me was a significant situation for the Patriots, instead they traded them away into the future. I might have gone for one of those offensive linemen like Eric Steinbach. Somebody like that. Now you've got Baltimore's first rounder and I get the feeling Baltimore is going to be a very good team. Nick, Hope you have been enjoying your summer. Who is this "Ty Warren" people are talking about? Do you think he is a passing fad, or all that jazz? ---- Pat Todd, LA, Calif.
A: He may be "all that jazz." He has good quickness and strength. The question is how long will it take him to know what he's doing on the field? He's got four pre-season games to do that and that will dictate how much playing time he gets. Who's going to be the starting running back this year? I believe Faulk should get a shot or we desperately need to get a starting (tail back)/running back. 2nd How could is Tom Brady going to be this year? --Robert Perez, Worcester A: I'm not sure who the starting running back is. Someone has to start so I think that's Smith, but Faulk may get as many reps out there. What is the status of lineman neal? Will he be available to play soon?--John Rorke, Stewartstown, pa A: Stephen Neal had shoulder surgery and he should miss a good part, if not all of the season. Hi Nick, I like to read your column for it's cool assessment of the Patriots and for the crazy #@%*! people think and say. Anyway, have you seen the new improved Patriots backfield in person? It seems the Pats now have a more balanced, deeper group of running backs now with Antowain Smith and Kevin Faulk joining forces with Larry Centers(great pickup!), J.R. Redmond, Antowain Womack the new fullback from San Diego. Who looks sharp on what type of plays and have you seen the young and versatile Dan Klecko playing some fullback? I've read that Belichick has been moving him all over the D line and at linebacker, then taking reps as a mini Fridge role at fullback! Awesome. Thanks for your consideration and I'd love to see a practice some time if you have some extra tickets. I could get you fresh Maine lobster in trade.--Todd Dadaleares, Portland, Maine A: Centers will help the passing game and give Brady a nice outlet receiver. I doubt he would help as a runner. I think that aspect of the running game is improved, having a pass-catching fullback. I'm not sure the rest of it has improved yet. Continued... |
