Opening night reviewPage 6 of 19 -- A: The rookie corners are good enough to start last night against the Giants in a pre-season game. They've looked as if they're not overwhelmed by the complicated system the Patriots play. They cover well, have good recovery skills and appear to have good tackling skills. As for Walt, he's a good man.
I like what the Pats did in the off season, on the defensive side of the ball -but by ignoring the O do you think they have enough fire power for Tom (BOY WONDER) Brady? PS welcome back NICK!--Jeff Dickinson, Newburyport A: I think the firepower for Tom is there with the receivers and Daniel Graham and a sure-handed guy like Fauria and Centers. I just wonder about the running backs. It's a key year for Tom because it's his third year as a starter, and some of the QBs around the league in the past have hit a wall in that season for some reason. Any chance of the Pats looking at RB Davis now that the Broncos have released him? Maybe as a 3rd down back? Thanks.--Christina Wallace, Dunstable A: Good thought. His agent told me that Davis won't be ready to play until November at the earliest. But we should keep an eye on that. I hear the term, "he's not an every-down back" thrown around all the time. What qualifies a running back to be an every-down back? Those who aren't, do they lack conditioning or size to stay in the games? Which Pats players are not every-down backs and why?--John Antonelli, North Attleboro, MA A: I think first of all it has to do with talent. Aevery downwn back is very talented, very tough. He doesn't wear down as easily. I'm not sure conditioning has anything to do with it as I believe most of the guys are in great condition. I think it has to do with their elusiveness, whether they take hits flush or do they avoid them. Stamina plays a big part and their ability to read defenses and anticipate the hole. Sometimes it's just a lack of opportunity and that's what I believe Faulk and J.R. Redmond are suffering from. What ever came of Jamaal Anderson's second comeback attempt? When you see the type of determination and toughness someone like Robert Edwards had to overcome his far more serious injury, it really makes you questions Anderson's heart.--Brian McCarthy, South Boston A: I guess he just hasn't been able to get himself in top shape to make a team. He wants to come back, I know that. Buevery timeme he works out for someone you hear his conditioning isn't great. Nick, Can't wait for the season to start! How is Daniel Graham looking in camp, is he healthy? Is he going to get more looks in thRed zonene? I am headed to Miami to see the Pats in Oct, can you recommend any good restaurants?--Gary Stone, Stoughton Continued... |
