Opening night review

Now for the stuff that's still up in the air. The running game.

It's looking more like a running game-by-committee. Kevin Faulk started and Antowain Smith spelled him, just as we thought. It appears this will continue for a while until someone takes the job. Maybe neither will. Talking to Jim Sims, Jamal Anderson's agent early Thursday, he said the Patriots had not called him about Anderson. Therefore it appears its Faulk and Smith and perhaps J.R. Redmond can thrust himself into the mix when he returns from his rib injury, likely this week.

It was encouraging to see Tom Brady and Troy Brown hook up in the end zone for a 16-yard TD. Brown looks healthy and that could be huge. What the Patriots need, however, is to get Deion Branch healthy and productive again. He could be a real difference-maker. It's apparent that second-year receiver David Givens is taking a bigger role in the offense. Watch the Notre Dame grad because he's a very good special teams player, who can catch the ball.

Still a long way to go

Good questions again this week. Most deal with the running game. And really we didn't have many answers after the first exhibition game. It does appear the offensive line performed pretty well. The quarterbacks were sacked twice, but there weren't any disasters out there. Adrian Klemm got beat once on a Giant sack of Damon Huard.

It was a very positive game, but let's keep it in perspective because I know Bill Belichick is. As I wrote earlier there will be ups and downs before the pre-season is over. The key thing is to stay healthy, to get some of the injured players like Ty Law, Willie McGinest, Joe Andruzzi, and Kenyatta Jones playing.

Celebrity restaurant review

Mike Andelman, Phantom Gourmet (Ch. 4/UPN 38): Abe and Louis in Boston. Mike likes the bone 'n' ribeye medium rare; with chocolate souffle for desert.

David Andelman, Phantom Gourmet (Ch. 4/UPN 38): The Oak Room, Copley Plaza. The chateaubriand for two is the best meal he's had.

Sean McDonough, UPN 38, Red Sox announcer: Cantina Italiana, North End, Boston. Sean enjoys just about everything, but is especially partial to the Chicken Fiore.

Here's the mailbag.

Hi Nick, Loved the column last year; I thought you did a great job trying to project an unbiased opinion about our team. That being said, have you had any input or information that might lend the die-hard fans of a more confident attitude about the chances of this team making it beyond post-season? Last year I thought they relied too heavily on the short route passing- handcuffing them offensively, as adjustments were obviously made by teams that were fooled during their Super Bowl run from the year before. So what do you think so far of this years' Patriot Nation? --Murtagh Hunt, Newton

A: I think they will attempt to stretch the field with longer passes, but part of the success of that will be defenses respecting their running game. They have to give defenses reason to respect their run game and then they should be able to open it up down the field. It's a tough order.

Nick, Welcome back!!! Love your column. What are your feelings on the Pats trading their second pick in the first round to Baltimore, who in turn took Kyle Bowler? (I hear that he isn't even the set starter yet.) I felt that this could have been a HUGE year for the Pats, in terms of building a solid, young team w/ young guys. Was there any player left at the time that you would have taken, or do the Pats do the right thing in trading for a number one for next season? --Brian Callahan, Boston

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.

With Charlie Weiss fully recovered and ready to go, will the Pats be able to establish a balanced attack on offense and stay the course of a balanced attack, run and pass, 50-50? How much has the O-line been bolstered by the draft and free agent signings? Tommy boy can't afford to scramble and with a weak wing he will need a good o-line. Thanks, Nick. Glad the mail bag is back! You do a solid job by being the air in this pigskin of a forum! Go Pats! --Jamie Regan, Milton

A: Charlie is fine. I'm not certain you'll see "balanced" in the Patriots vocabulary. I think Charlie likes to throw the ball and use spread formations. He runs an exciting offense, and I'm sure he'll try to get a few more run plays in there, but that depends on how effective the run game is and what the score is. As for the O-line, I like Dan Koppen from BC. He could develop quickly. They have added depth in Brenden Stai and Bill Conaty at the guard position, which is good.

Won't the Patriots have to run the ball more than 20 times a game to keep opponents from crushing the Brady dinky-pass offense?--Bronco Bob Koenig, Portsmouth,NH

A: That makes sense. It seems to me that A. Smith becomes a more effective runner when he gets into that 20-plus carry mark, too.

Hi Nick, nice to see your back. My question is mostly from excitement about how this Defense looks on paper...but when they play on Sunday, are we going to see the best Belichick Defense he has ever put together and if not, how long might that take? Thanks, and Shouts to all the wr's who will be hurting after they test the middle --G Stevens, MA

A: Anthony Pleasant would be very upset to hear you say "Belichick's defense" because the players feel its Romeo Crennel's defense. Anyway, it has potential to be exciting, but they have to get those veteran corners back on the field.

Nick, do you know if Mike Woicik, the Pats, strength and conditioning coach ever worked at Oregon State University? I played there briefly back in the mid 80's and the strength coach at OSU back then had a very similar, if not the same, name. Thanks, jr ps I tried looking on the Pat's web site for such info and didn't find anything. Do they have such background info available anywhere? -- Jim Racine, Boston, MA

A: His bio does not make mention of Oregon State.

Nick, It seems from reading articles regularly that the Patriots are going to be offensively challenged again this season. Last year they surprised a few teams with an all out passing attack, but in the end their lack of running game cost them against the Jets. Do you think they should have added to the offense in some way? It seems to me that screen passes and 8 yard outs can move the chains but not put the ball in the end zone enough to win those big games. Thanks for the great reading down here in Tampa.--Jeff Ballou, Brandon, FL

A: I think they should have added another top running back. They signed Mike Cloud, but he won't be a factor now until perhaps later in the year.

Hey Nick, I was wondering what is going on with Antoine Womack. I went to FSU and saw this kid play when he was with Virginia. Good skills then. Why has he yet to step on the field. Will this kid ever play football for the Pats and will he be productive? Is he fast, quick, powerful, got good hands... I would appreciate if you could shed some light on this one for me. --Scott Mertens, Dover, NH

A: Info is tough to get here. Womack did participate in mini camp, but not in camp so far. The only conclusion you can draw is he must have suffered a setback on his ACL rehab or he's suffered another undisclosed injury.

Will Brady complete a pass of more than 20 yards?--Paul Sadowski, Chicago

A: I can say without hesitation, yes.

Nick, I presume that there is no way that the Pats will carry four quarterbacks,so would their plan be to try and slip Cliff K. through waivers and place him on the practice squad? Thanks.--Mark Flavin, New York, N.Y.

A: Well, if they feel Kliff Kingsbury is decent enough they'll keep four. Otherwise they might slip him through waivers. They like the idea of developing a young quarterback (like Brady and Davey) and either keeping them or using them as trade bait down the road.

Nick, As warm summer evenings will soon give way to crisp autumn afternoons, we in the extended landscape of Patriots nation want to know the early stories emerging from training camp. Are these rookie corners really as good as advertised? Are we going to see Keith Byars in a Pats uniform again in the form of Centers? With big things expected out of Graham, does it look like he is up to the task having seen him in training camp thus far? Finally, who is the biggest surprise so far in camp? And changing gears a little bit, I wanted to say that my brother and I ran into Walt Coleman, he being the head ref during the snow bowl game, down on a fishing trip in Florida in early June. He was a fantastic guy with a great sense of humor. We were lucky enough to have our picture taken with him when we ran into him at dinner and I have to say, it is one that is truly appreciated by any Pats fan. I'd like to send it to you. What is your email address? Thanks and looking forward to reading your column to get me through my fridays. --Michael Ecumenicism, Bethesda, MD

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

A: I'd be very surprised if Daniel Graham doesn't have a break out season. He's very talented.

Who are you favorite two teams to go to the Super Bowl this year?--Chris Cachat, MA

A: Miami and Tampa Bay.

Nick, Love your articles... I have a theory about the Pat's running back situation; it's all about NEXT year. Given Belichick's complex defense and how shallow this year's draft and free agent pool was on the offensive side of the ball, the Pats loaded up the defense. I think the Pats will give this new defensive unit a year to learn and perfect the system and then next year, with a MUCH deeper offensive draft, they'll go after the stud running back all of the fans have been dying for. Usually the offensive guys pick up the system a lot quicker then the defensive side. The defense will be hitting on all cylinders and they'll have a bunch of picks to fill any holes they want on offense, including running back. Am I sniffing too many paint fumes or do you think I might be onto something? --Brian Shurtleff, Boston

A: Between the paint fumes I think you make a lot of sense, Brian. There's no doubt that next season will be a better year for running backs, and unless one falls from the sky, they'll need one. Their defense is a work in progress because there are an influx of younger guys who have to step up, and they still have some of the old guard guys, who if they leave will create a bit of a void. You always try to get the stars to align at the same time. I think that happened two years ago. Could it happen again in a league where there is so much parity? The Patriots would be nothing short of a modern day dynasty if they could win another one.

Aghhh Nick How great was it that there were no "Bledsoe/Brady" comparison questions last week??? My question more of a past player update: Chris Slade? Last I heard he was in Carolina (2001/02) is he now retired? Also, I just got back from Chicago and visited Solider Field, what a butcher job they did there, UGLY and the Bears fans are non-to-pleased about it. --Ben Boston, South Hadley

A: Ben, I'm very happy about the Bledsoe/Brady stuff going away. Just wondering if Bledsoe should win a game or two this season against the Pats, or if the Bills surpass the Pats, just wondering if it might pop back up again. Anyway, Chris is retired. There was some thought he might return to Dallas with Parcells, but that never developed. I've heard similar things from reporters in Chicago about Soldiers.

Let's see, last week you answered 5 questions about the O-line, 10 questions about where the Pat's will place in the AFC east and 4 about Klecko being to small, but left out my question about the Antowain Smith conditioning test. So, I'll ask it again. How can Antowain fail the test one day and pass the next. Does he get into shape overnight? I don't think so. I think it's more of a mental thing. And, I believe Belichick thinks so too, that's why he tried to keep it quiet this year. I wish people would get off his case. I wonder how he would perform if he thought the fans were behind him. Your thoughts? --Tom Haight, N. Yarmouth, ME

A: I've never put too much stock in Smith failing the test. As you said, he passes it the next day anyway. I don't think it's a big issue unless he shows he's not in shape during the season and I don't believe that's the case. I don't think it has anything to do with whether fans are behind him or not behind him. He's said many times, that the running test is not a real high priority for him because in his own words, when is he ever going to have to sprint 20 times for 60 yards in five seconds on the field? He's also a big guy. He's 230. His game is power, not speed. Most teams don't have this test anyway. He never had it in Buffalo. I don't understand why they even have it. This is a team that always tells us that they don't care about 40 time, they care about football time. So why are they conducting a race?

Nick, There is always this debate as to weather Boston has become more of a football town after the Super Bow win but I think the Red Sox events of last week (Big Yankee Series win, Trades…) show Boston is all about Baseball, if the Sox are playing well it doesn't matter what the Patriots do, do you agree? Also, I collect old a Boston games on VHS and have a HUGE collection, if any of your readers also collect and are interested in trading with me or if any want the great 2001-02 Super Bowl run on VHS, have them send me an e-mail: hubvhs@attbi.com I would be happy to assist! Thanks!--Patrick Flynn, Hadley,MA

A: I would have to agree. The Red Sox are clearly No. 1 and always will be, but I think the Patriots will take their strong No. 2 showing. I think the Red Sox fan base is tried and true. They don't have to win anything for the fan base to support them. The Patriots have been a very good franchise since Bill Parcells (in 1993) and Bob Kraft (in 1994). But I wonder what would happen if the team didn't make the playoffs a few years in a row? As it is now, the Patriots haven't been in the playoffs three out of the last four years (1999, 2000, 2002). They won it all, however, and that's sustained the fan base.

Nick, This is more of a personal question that I have always wondered about. Do you and your media brethren get paid when you do talk shows i.e. 'weei, NECN, Sports Final, 1510, NESN, ESPN etc…… if so what is the adv rate, $200 -$500 per show????? Am I close? Also, if you personally are asked to call into another show in another state say a sports show in Chicago to talk football do they pay you? PS I know the Globe does not allow it's staff to do Weei! --Brett Coasta, Boston

A: We are paid, yes, but I wouldn't be at liberty to say how much. Every media outlet has a different rate. As for out of town shows, most of the time those are not paid.

Nick, glad to have you back. I was hoping we'd get an upgrade on the offensive line to help the running game. Unfortunately, I see only minor tweaks. Do you feel Matt Light is a solid enough player to be the starting left guard over the next several years, or should a replacement be found? What other OL positions need to improve?--Bobby Hanley, Hingham

A: I think Light is ready to blossom. I see a different guy than the past two years. He's taken charge on the field; much more confident. I think he's worked on his quickness to handle those speed rushers. Let's see what happens, but the Patriots made no attempt to replace him so they much feel he can do the job.

Thanks for such a great column! I enjoy and look forward to it every week after the game. You don't need to print this one as I am not as savvy with the terminology of football (although I live for it every Sunday) but have more of a request of you. My husband is over in Iraq and will miss most of the season (I am going to tape the games, but with a 10 day turn around on mail delivery...), but really wants to have some information about the draft picks and acquisitions-and your opinion on training camps. Again, all I know about the runs/plays/stats is a nickle defense, and most of the rules--don't you just love the tuck one? If you could help me out, I (and my husband--and most of the 119th military police company) would be very appreciative. Military wiferywife, Johnston

A: I'll answer it because I have so much respect and admiration for the people who served our country. The most productive guys have been the two cornerbacks Eugene Wilson and Asante Samuel, who started Thursday night. I think the Patriots would like to accelerate their development because Otis Smith is 37 and Ty Law's contract is getting too large. Dan Klecko is fascinating because of his size, his speed and his quickness. He reminds me of Tedy Bruschi in his first season with the Patriots under Parcells where they'll use him in different ways. I like the quarterback, Kliff Kingsbury, but he'll be a fourth guy if they keep four QBs. Receiver Bethel Johnson is very fast and he'll have to stay healthy and he'll have to show he can run the routes.

I was just wondering what's up with Antowain Smith? It seems every year he can't pass the conditioning test. Does he have some problem with conditioning? Also, what do you think of the Patriots receiving corps this year? Wide receivers and tight ends? --Brian Morache, New Britain, CT

A: There's no excuse for it, but he's a bigger type back - about 230. He's out there running with tailbacks like Kevin Faulk and J.R. Redmond. I don't really think it matters unless he's not in shape for the season. As for the receivers, I think they can all catch and run. They're not very tall, and maybe that's a factor with a certain type of pass (over the middle), but in a medium range passing game, they can do the job.

Do you question the wisdom of spending big money for Rodney Harrison who is obviously a great addition but is almost identical to Milloy (not to mention that I question whether or not this team is big enough to hold both their personalities) when maybe it would have been wise to get a Stephen Davis because Antowain is on his way out.--Nick Horan, Boston

A: I don't question the wisdom on Harrison because he didn't cost them much. I questioned the wisdom on getting rid of Tebucky Jones who is a faster, younger player. I sure do wonder why they didn't make a b id for a running back. But I honestly believe they feel they're OK at running back. We'll see if they're right.

Everyone was panicking at the end of last year about the run defense, in my opinion the pass happy offense of the Patriots and lack of an attempted running game put allot of pressure on the defense. Do you feel that a more balanced offense this year will improve the play of the defense? --Lance Lemieux, Wilton, ME

A: It's the old chicken and the egg. You need to keep your defense off the field as long as possible with a sustained offense. Whether that means running it and continuing drives, or passing it to continue drives. You've got to be able to do that offensively. For all the criticism the Pats offense took, they still outscored everyone in their division.

hey there Nick, It's great to hear that most people from around the league, and media seem to think that the Pats will be a very competitive team this year, but lets face it; the AFC east is as tough as it gets. Where do you see the Pats and the rest of the division in terms of records at the end of the season? --Dom Lange, Brighton MA

A: I'm not trying to avoid the question, but I just see so much parity in the league that it wouldn't surprise me to see 7-9, 8-8, 9-7 or 10-6. I'd be very surprised if the Pats could win more than 10 because of the parity. I think there must be between 12-15 teams who are all in the same boat and the Patriots are one of them. Breaks, good coaching, good or bad off season personnel decisions will all come to light as the season unfolds.

Nick, Are you at all worried that Takeo Spikes is going to knock Brady out for the season week one, or this offensive line going to be healthy and play like they did in 2001? Also, do you think Antowain Smith has any gas left in his tank? It sure didn't seem like it towards the end of last season. --Matt Williams, Peabody

A: Matt, the scouts I've talked to say Spikes was the best free-agent linebacker out there because he can do a number of things well. Colvin was a great pickup by the Patriots because he's a pass-rush specialist, who can also play the run, but probably not as well as Spikes. The Pats have to keep their eye on him and don't forget Jeff Posey, the other linebacker who is a terrific pass-rusher. As for Smith, I think he is what he is. He's a downhill runner who can wear out the defense.

Nick, So glad you are back it has been another long off season. My question is regarding the RB situation. Do you see the Patriots giving Kevin Faulk more of a chance to become a full time back? Will we see more of J.R. Redmond or Antowain Womack? Or will we once again see Antowain Smith given the job and K. Faulk as a third down specialist. --Joe Sawhill, Des Moines, Iowa

A: During this past week of practice, Faulk emerged as the back used quite a bit with the first team. He's getting every opportunity for more playing time and perhaps the starting job. Now it's up to him.

It is very nice to see your mailbag again Nick. Your insight helps the transplanted fans stay connected to the team. Keep up the great work! Here is my question: Do you think that the Pats defense will become more dominant than the offense or vice versa? Thanks --David Yaffe, Raleigh, NC

A: I think the emphasis is on defense. I think they're trying to put together a shutdown defense where the offense has to do just enough to win the game. I'm sure they would like to repeat two years ago, when the defense was tough as nails, could stop the run and not allow the big play.

Nick - I'm a Pats fan lining deep within Giants/Jets country and your article. Do you think the addition of Larry Centers will limit Kevin Faulks role in the upcoming season? Kevin seemed to be coming on strong as a backfield receiving threat last year and I was looking forward to him continuing that trend in 2003. Any thoughts? --Michael B. Wright, Katonah, NY

A: I don't think Faulk's role will be limited. He might be their best back and might be one of their best offensive players, so you need him out there. Centers will be spotted in certain situations. He is 35 and you don't want to over use him.

With the Patriots going to the 3-4 defense this year, what role will Willie McGinest play? It looked as if he had started to settle a bit in the last couple of years. Will he remain up front or go back to OLB? --Jeff Leafer, Whitman

A: Willie told me he doesn't expect anything to change. He'll rush the passer on third down. He'll play some outside linebacker in what I assume will be a rotation of guys in that 3-4 defense. If he's OK with his injuries, he'll play a lot and hope that he can make plays with the addition of Colvin.

Nick, nothing against Jarvis Green or Klecko, but those two and Ty Warren are new and unproven. Even if they do well, the Pat's have no real depth on the DL beyond them - God forbid Seymour goes down. A veteran for one year until we can utilize that stockpile of draft picks next year is "the ticket" in my book. I'm praying that someone like a Ted Washington (Bears) becomes available for the NT position. Any possibilities/rumors out there for Nose Tackles? Rogers - Lions? Also, where does Hamilton, Pleasant and McGinest fit in this new 34 D? I'm thinking these guys give the Pat's the ability to switch back to 43 if the 34 is not working out by mid-camp. Good guess...? --Jim Kelleher, Northford, CT

A: Jim, I agree there's concern there. I don't think the concern is shared by the coaching staff or the personnel people because they didn't feel they needed to sign an experienced nose tackle. I think because they rotate guys in and out so much with different schemes they can get away with not having the perfect nose tackle. I think they believe that. They are the defensive experts, so it's difficult for me as a sportswriter or you as a fan to challenge that until we either see they're right or they're wrong. Rodgers was a guy they looked at around draft time, but passed on a deal with the Lions. There have been others like Sam Admas and Chester McGlockton they've passed on. They made a phone call on Dan Wilkinson but didn't follow it up as of Wednesday so I think they're trying to see what they have before they do something else.

Nick, With little change to the offensive line from last years squad and the entire starting right hand side out of action to date how can the Pats expect to improve on the running game ? This is clearly a must area for improvement for them to get in to the playoffs and beyond. --Greg Cormier, Shrewsbury

A: Greg, I think they believe it can click if the line has the running mind set right off the bat. If they start getting pass-happy again, then that mind set will disappear. It never really appeared last season. I do know the guys on the O-line have a lot of pride and they want to be able to run it all the time.

Hi Nick, Its great that the mail bback. Lastk.Last year,oakland had the best offense and tampa had thedefense .Whose.Who do u think will lead in that category this year. What is ur take on the pats offense and defense this year .Thanks for taking my question. --Kuha, Waltham

A: I don't expect much of a falloff from TB. I expect Baltimore to have a tremendous defense along with Miami. I expect the Rams will be back putting up a bunch of points and I also like KC's offense as well. The Pats could be explosive if their running game comes along because I think Brady is one of the top QB's in the league and he threw 28 TD passes a year ago.

The razor-sharp image of "Snake" Stabler comfortably operating within the pocket behind black-and-silver behemoths stonewalling Patriot on rushers, and calibrating delivery of yet another bomb to Branch, still gets the bristles up on my neck. Do you think, Nick, the Patriots are serious and capable of integrating a vertical game to complement what is nonetheless an excellent short-game? Takes "earthmovers" up front, a QB who can scramble, and visceral integrity. Brady inspires confidence, but do we have the O-line personnel this year to get it done, or will we have to wait for a bountiful '04 draft to do so? --Brian Mchugh, Santa Monica, Calif.

A: One thing the O-line has to do is maintain their blocks for a longer period of time. If Brady was throwing a quick slant or a sideline pass, he had the time to do so. There were times he tried to throw deep where he was hurried or sacked. I think Brady has superb pocket presence, so he can get out of the way of an ongoing rush and step into the pocket. I'd like to see more of it. The Jets have a similar dilemma.

I suspect this issue may be a tired one for you. However, I say we mix it up anyway. You've been pretty tepid in your praise of Coach Belichick. As an outsider, I have a hard time understanding this because the on-field product has been very good over the past 2 seasons. Is it fair to say that your uneasiness about him relates to how he treated certain players (e.g. Bledsoe, Ted Johnson)? If so, does the team's new player friendly policy of not releasing names of those failing the fitness test impress you? --Jon Newton, Toronto, Ontario

A: None of the above. I think I praise him quite often. I am also critical. This is a team that didn't make the playoffs last season. I take it year-to-year, and that's the way he takes it and Bob Kraft takes it, too. He's a terrific coach. Some of his personnel moves don't always work out and sometimes that hurts the team.

Hi Nick. I'm sure you'll be getting a few of these emails, but how about the pats looking at "Big Daddy" Wilkinson? He is down around 300 lbs and is suppose to be in great shape. He's been very durable over his career and was hurt last year which would explain his 17 tackles. I think he's going to have something to prove and I think he would be a great fit. I'm not suggesting that we break the bank, but if they could get him here with a heavily incentive driven contract why not? We could put him at the nose tackle, seymour on the right, hamilton/warren on the left. Bring Klecko/Green in on 3rd downs. This just would seem to be a move that would make allot of sense. Your thoughts? Thanks for your time. --Andy Pillsbury, Portland, Maine

A: As I wrote earlier, the Patriots made an initial call but to my knowledge haven't followed up. I think they want to see what the results of Thursday's game is.

With all the talk about improving the running game, what are the plans for Derek Watson and Antoine Womack? I have never seen them play but they seem young, strong and inexpensive. --Gerry Boucher, Rhode Island

A: Watson has been cut. Womack has yet to practice. Right now, they're not in the mix.

With the growing level of parity in the NFL, how do you see the PATS stacking up against the rest of the league? What are their strengths and weaknesses for the upcoming season? --John Cancellieri, Weymouth, MA

A: Strengths are coaching, good character players, what should be a good defense and a very good QB. Weaknesses may involve the running game and stopping the run and a bit of aging.

Since all the AFC East teams improved in the off season, Which team improve the most? Which team should win the division? Will the wildcard come from the AFC East? --David L. Young, Taunton

A: Buffalo improved the most. The Patriots helped them out with Bledsoe last year and then Tom Donahoe revamped the defense this season. The Patriots also improved and Miami, getting Seau, should be tougher. Who wins the division? I'm sticking with Miami as we write in early August.

Nick - Is Peyton Manning quickly becoming the most over rated quarter- back in recent history? No playoff wins. Interceptions at critical points in key games. Bledsoe had much more success in the first 6 years at NE and still faced significant criticism. What gives? --Joe Q, Medway

A: Key year for Peyton. The Colts are being picked to go far and I think that's because of a healthy Edgerrin james who can take the pressure off Peyton. As for the critics, Indianapolis is a small city compared to Boston. Fans are more rabid in Boston.

Good afternoon, The offensive running game is the only part of the Pat's game that gives me concern at this point. What is your take on the offensive running game? Are there real reasons to hold out to be pleasantly surprised? Welcome back, Nick. --Jon Seskevich, Durham, NC

A: The players and the coaches have much more hope than the media or fans do. They have a good feel for it and they think they'll be OK.

Why don't the players, namely the ones that failed the test drill (or whatever it's called), come in here in shape to start gearing up for the season? Maybe I am blowing this issue out of proportion, but perception is reality. Not actuality. Not in my opinion. Anyone who fails the drill must have to catch up during the camp with their mates. I don't think this is the mark of a true professional. If I were the coach I would not be happy about it. I wonder what goes through the players minds about those who failed the drill. Winning championships begins in training camp, and in practice too. what are your thoughts about this? --Doug Peterson, Millis

A: True. I get the feeling that the media and fans make more of it than the coach does. As long as they pass it the next day, what's the problem? Antowain Smith failed it the training camp before they won the Super Bowl. Had a pretty good year, in fact. Damien Woody failed it this year. Think he's not professional? He's one of the best in the league and he worked out all off season. Sometimes it's just a matter of not eating right before the test, how humid or hot it is. All kinds of factors go into it. Most teams don't have running tests. St. Louis is one of the fastest teams in the league, won a Super Bowl without a running test.

I'm an "original" pats fan-had seasons tickets from 60 - 73 when i moved out of state. still follow them religiously. i am a u of miami grad & go to some of their games. personally, i thought the pats should have taken a shot & drafted willis mc gahee. i'm aware of his injury; however, if he comes back you're looking @ a potential star. do you think they did the right thing by passing on him & what's your take on the recent pats draft. Thanks --Ron Lane, St. Augustine, FL

A: They needed a defensive lineman (actually a nose tackle) first. That was the priority. I'm sure they would have considered McGahee later, but Buffalo did a pretty bold thing and took him in the first round.

Nick, What's with the skirmishes at the Patriots practices? i.e. Rodney Harrison & Troy Brown. I have this image of Big Rodney Harrison picking on Little Troy Brown. Is that accurate? P.S. loved the book. --Courtney McCook, Los Angeles, Calif.

A: Harrison has always been chippy like that. It wasn't so much the hit as it was Troy getting poked in the eye. You want to keep Troy healthy. I don't think there's any problem between the two.

Which team in the AFC East is the biggest threat? I personally think it is Miami, but they have 2 of their last 4 are away in cold weather. So they look like they may falter. --Anurag (Anu) Nigam, San Francisco, CA

A: That's what we have to wait and see. Having Ricky Williams should offset that, but last season they didn't use him late in the game against the Pats and blew a chance for the playoffs.

I am convinced that Rodney Harrison is the real deal. The guy has a proven track record and he obviously hits like a truck (just ask Troy Brown). That said, do you really believe that the Pats have gotten better by giving up a talent like Tebucky Jones? Jones is much younger than Harrison and a special teams standout. The guy was the single best athlete on the team the last few years. Are we kidding ourselves here or is this thing all about the money? --Dennis Rich, Wakefield, MA

A: Harrison should be fun to watch. He's always been one of my favorite players in the league because of the way he approaches the game. The Chargers thought he had slowed in coverage so that's what he needs to dispell. Tebucky's trade to New Orleans was, in part about money. The Patriots didn't feel he was worth the amount of the franchise tag which was just over $3 million.

Tom Brady is as tough as nails... i am wondering how is shoulder is? can he get the ball down the field? will charlie weiss redesign his playbook to make him a more downfield threat? i know that charlie loves the trick play (just like anyone else), but when the play dosen't fool anyone (me included) it is an issue... daniel graham and deion branch have a lot to prove this year (durability wise), how do they look? --Gordon Dupree, Los Angeles, Calif.

A: Brady will throw it downfield more. You can see it in practice. Now, he has to have the time from his offensive line. If his shoulder is OK, and it looks like it is, he should be able to do it with the speed the Pats have at receiver.So far, Graham has avoided injury and looks great. Deion can't seem to stay healthy.

Hey Nick, any idea what the Patriot's prospects are for this year? Where do you think they have strengthened themselves the most, and where are there still holes to fill? My guess is the defense will be much improved, but I'm not yet sold on the offensive line and running game, or the long passing game? Finally, how do you see the quarterback depth chart this year? Will Davy move ahead of Damon Huard, and what about Kingsbury, will he stick with the team? --David Maffris, Leominster

A: Having answered most of your question in previous responses, I'll address the backups. Davey is challenging Huard. The Patriots would like to see Davey make the jump as Brady did two years ago. Davey has the best arm on the team and can throw the deep ball very well. The pre-season games will determine who's 2 and who's 3.

As a Texas Tech Alum, we are really looking to see how Kingsbury develops in the Pats system. It's disappointing to see that he has not received the accolades of what he was able to accomplish in school from the media. Regardless of the system, his accuracy and ability to improvise allowed him to be in the top 5 passers in NCAA history. What do you think of his camp thus far and his ability to make the roster this year? --John W. Lee, Annadale, NJ

A: I like this guy a lot. You can tell he's been a football player all of his life. He knows what he's doing out there. Doesn't have the greatest arm strength, but he makes up for that will accuracy.

Great to have you back doing this Q&A. It is a top-notch bathroom 'print and read.' And, believe it or not, that's meant as a complement. My question has to do with the RB situation, the formations/substitutions, and predictability. It seems to me that when they use Faulk, it's more for dump-offs, screens, pitches and sweeps. And when 'Twain is in there, it's typically a 'between-the-tackles' run call (hopefully, because I think this is what he needs to get back to doing - hitting the hole quickly and running downhill). Do you think this apparent predictable situation is something that concerns Bill/Charlie? Do you see Cloud or Womack as a solution to this "problem" - in that they can take on more of an 'every-down' role at the RB spot? Or am I just digging way too deep for the first mailbag of the year?? Thanks Nick - and, again, it's great to have you back weekly. --Patrick Thorman, Brighton

A: Great question Patrick. I'm not certain I like the image you're conjuring, however. Anyway, I'm not sure if it will change at all, but Faulk has been running different types of plays in camp, similar plays to what Smith is running. I still see Smith running a lot of sweeps, which I don't quite get.

Hey Nick. Glad to see you back on football. How has Ty Warren looked in training camp? Do you think he'll pan out, or did the Patriots hold too rigidly to their draft strategy and take the fourth best guy at his position? Also, any surprises in camp so far? --Paul Massari, Quincy

A: The offensive players tell me he's fast and athletic. One of the players remarked he reminds him of Richard Seymour. That's high praise. Having said that, those of us who have watched him closely (and occasionally I watch the closed-circuit TV version of practice from the press box where you can focus in on him)haven't seen him do a lot of incredible things yet. I think he's trying to get experienced in the offense and get his feet wet. In time, he should feel more comfortable out there. As far as selecting him, once they decided they weren't going to deal with Chicago or Detroit to move up, he was the guy they had in mind.

Except for Seymour (a can't miss) and Brady (sheer luck) Bellicheck and Pioli's drafts have been horrible: so why is it that every football writer in the nation is raving about the high round selections of this year and the last? After ears of one player drafts are we suppose to believe that in the last two drafts the patriots drafted six or seven players who can start or spend quality minutes on the field? Seems imporbable, huh? --Alvin Gonla, MA

A: I wouldn't say horrible. I think they've been decent.

Hi Nick, What was going on between Belichick and the (now ex) field superintendent, Brolin? Was it that coaches want things in the field (like slopes) to increase the home advantage, which offends the sensibilitites of field staff. I ask because altering the field to give yourself an advantage happens a lot in cricket (another great game by the way) and I wondered if the same thing was going on here? --Tom, England

A: It was something like that. Dennis Brolin is an outstanding field boss and well respected in the industry. In any sport where there's a field involved, the manager or the coach certainly make suggestions to the groundskeeper. In baseball the manager would suggest wetting down the grass or cutting the grass high depending on who the opponent. It's the same in football. If they;re playing the Dolphins with Ricky Williams, for instance, you'd want the grass high to slow him down. But for the most part, the groundskeeper has to do what's best for the field itself. It's very difficult to take care of a field in December because of the cold weather. Dennis disagreed with some of Belichick's suggestions. He just got tired of taking orders from a coach on how to prepare a football field.

How can a team that can't run the ball and can't protect the quarterback ignore the gaping holes on the offensive line? Draft someone, trade for some help, sign a free agent...Do Something! --Jake Birks, Portland, Maine

A: You have some support among the fan base with those concerns.

Tom Brady was quoted in an SI article as saying that Deion, Graham and Givens need to have big years and that if Antowain and Faulk play the way they're capable of they can put together a string of wins. He also said it's hard to get wins. He doesn't sound too confident. Is he a bit disturbed at the drafting, free agent signing emphasis on the defense?? --John Roberts, Quincy

A: Times I've talked to him he sounds very confident. I don't think he lacks that. I think he faith in the people around him as well. At least he talks a good game.

Why did the patriots get rid of T.C. Taylor? Do you think they gave him a fair shot? He is a big receiver and fast. I hope he doesn't come back and haunt us. By the way, do you remember Jimmy Smith, an all-pro now. He was from Jackson State and Dallas cut him and so did Buddy Ryan at Philadelphia. Who is Taylor with now, so I can keep trace of him... --Rayford C. Robinson, Jackson, Miss.

A: Ray, I don't know what happened to TC. He keeps getting cut and then brought back. So maybe we'll see him again.

Based on what you've seen thus far, how much of an impact do you think rookie DT Dan Klecko will have this season. Speaking of D-linemen, does Jarvis Green have what it takes to play the nose or will he move back to the end? --Kirk Austin, Columbus, GA

A: I think Klecko will have an emerging role. They'll use him as the Patriots used Tedy Bruschi when he was a rookie, moving him around as a blitzer and pass rusher. He'll probably be used in different spots on the line and be a nuisance factor for.

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