Turnovers, not injuries, reason for loss
First, an announcement: By popular demand we're moving the mailbag from Friday to Thursday, giving you more time to enjoy it late in the week while at work. We've received several e-mails asking if we could make this possible, and I also ran into a few fans in Washington who echoed the same sentiments. We'll begin this week, so send in your questions now.
Bill Belichick and his players don't want to be judged as a team decimated by injuries. Fair enough. We won't judge them that way. The facts are they turned the ball over four times, Tom Brady threw three picks, Kevin Faulk had a horrible fumble which led to a score and Adam Vinatieri missed a 46-yard field goal, certainly not a gimme, but usually money in the bank for him.
The coaching broke down at the end of the game. The final drive should have been handled completely different. Why the longer passes when all you need is about 15 yards to give Vinatieri a comfortable field goal for the tie? Fourth and three, why are you looking down field? Why not five yards to Larry Centers for the first down, run a couple of more plays and boot the field goal? Where was the timeout on fourth down? I'm not too upset about the draw play with Centers because there was enough time on the clock to try it and they very well could have surprised the Redskins defense.
The Patriots played with heart from start to finish, a tribute to the players because they never quit. The Redskins were extremely lucky to come away with a win because they fell asleep. How can you only beat a team with nine starters out by three points and have it come down to the wire like that?
The good news is the Patriots are 2-2, tied with Buffalo, a half-game behind Miami. It's still all bunched up in the AFC East. Buffalo has come back down to earth and it appears they woke up Philadelphia, who I always thought would be a dominating team. While it appears David Patten and Damien Woody at least return to the lineup next week against Tennessee, the Titans are such a physical team, I don't see how the Patriots can win the game unless the Titans try to give it away like the Redskins almost did.
Here's the upside to all these injuries: if they hang in and stay around .500 or better until some of their guys come back, the younger guys who are playing are just going to develop as players. Obviously, Rosey Colvin and Mike Compton aren't coming back, but Ted Washington and Ted Johnson, if I had to guess based on what I've heard about their injuries, would be back Game 11 or 12. It might take Washington longer because he's 35 and a big guy, but I think we'll see these guys playing by the time December hits and maybe sooner. Dan Klecko had a pretty good game with a sack and a blocked field goal. Eugene Wilson and Asante Samuel continue to gain valuable experience against top receivers. Ty Warren even got some playing time as did Tom Ashworth and Russ Hochstein as well as rookie center Dan Koppen. I thought David Givens did some goods things, and has showed that he might be the answer as their "big" receiver.
You must admit, Brady is one tough guy. He's playing with a really messed up arm and elbow, but he won't come out. He didn't have enough zip on a couple of those throws that were picked off, but it's necessary that he stay on the field at this time because everyone is looking to him for leadership. He's got to be the rock out there. Though if you could have seen him staring into his locker after the game, he looked completely beat. The Redskins got a lot of hits on him after the throw. And you can't really blame the offensive line. The Patriots started a rookie center making his second NFL start, and right tackle Tom Ashworth and guard Russ Hochstein made their first NFL starts.
Tyrone Poole has played very well. Very consistent. Here's a guy who was about to quit football for the second time in three years during training camp because he wanted to be closer to his family. He was somehow talked out of it, and has had to play catch-up because he missed the offseason program much to the dismay of the coaching staff. Poole is proof that the offseason program is a tad overrated for a veteran player. I understand younger guys needing to be there to learn the system and get acclimated to the pro game. But this constant pressure put on players to participate in a voluntary offseason program, and then to see so many injuries, it just doesn't fit. Poole didn't show up, and he's one of the few healthy, productive players out there
It's amusing to walk toward the media room at Gillette Stadium the past few weeks and seeing a stray black cat walking around the facility. Players can be superstitious. If you believe in that stuff and link it with all the injuries ... you know what I mean?
Celebrity restaurant review
Scott Cordischi, WSKO talk show host Providence, R.I.: Scott selects "Ten" in Providence as his favorite. He enjoys the 16-ounce sirloin medium-rare with a side of onion-strings.
Ed Harding of Ch. 5's "Eye Opener:" Ed says there's nothing like the pork chops at Capital Grille in Boston.
Mike Dowling, Ch. 5 sports reporter: Mike is a loyal Legal Seafoods diner. His favorite is swordfish, but he won't push away the salmon and scallops.
Nick, I don't claim to have any first-hand, inside knowledge of the game of football, but I am a fan who watches the games. How can anyone with eyes not see how Kevin Faulk produces all most every time he touches the ball, while Antowain Smith runs into a wall of people for a loss, no gain, or , when there is a hole he rips it for a whopping yard or two. And for everyone who says that Faulk can't hold up as an every down back, consider the benefits of using him that way - you get better results in the running game, and if he gets worn down you have a thoroughly motivated Smith (isn't that what he's been missing?) on the sidelines chomping at the bit to come in and prove he can still do it. I know the coaches have felt he's most effective as a situational player, but I think they would benefit from giving him bulk of the running load. I think the linemen would be in better physical shape too, not having Smith running into their backs all day. Your thoughts?
Jim Delfino, Sarasota, Fla.
A: Jim, I think the staff has come away to your way of thinking. He normally gets the most touches, and he should, he's probably the best player on offense. In the ideal situation, he would be the home run threat and Smith would be the tough yardage guy. That's what they're hoping will emerge.
Nick, since NESN has teamed up with the Globe, much like Fox has teamed up with the Herald, why not do a weekly segment on the Patriots like Fox does. I find myself forced to watch even though I consider the Herald to write with poison pens(the real Boston curse) and I'm not sure they're just stirring up controversy. I guess fair and balanced only applies to current affairs and not sports. We love the mailbag and I think you'd be great doing a show from Foxboro.
Thom Whipple, Lewiston, Maine
A: Tom, NESN began doing Patriots reports last season. They air about twice a week prior to Red Sox and Bruins games.
Hi, Nick, love the mailbag. Nick, as you continue to build up the myth of Tom Donahoe being something akin the Red Auerbach of football, have you stopped to research his record and fully appreciate what happened in Pittsburgh? Tom Donahoe was fired by an organization that prides itself on tradition and probably has the lowest turnover of front office personnel of any team in the NFL. The Rooneys fired Donahoe because he wasn't getting the job done and a lot of talented players were being replaced by inferior talent. Instead of labeling Donahoe a genius as a way of channeling your anti-Belichick bias because he traded for Bledsoe and signed Milloy, perhaps you should look a little deeper at his record. In the 2 seasons after Tom Modrak left Pittsburgh, Donahoe's Steelers won a total of 13 games over the next 2 seasons. After Donahoe left the Steelers won 9, 13, and 10 games the next 3 years. Meanwhile, 2 years after Modrak arrived in Philly, the Eagles put together 11, 11, and 12 win seasons. If the Bills are a success this season it's most likely a direct result of Modrak coming aboard in 2002 and being involved in this winter's draft and revamping of the Buffalo defense with key free agent acquisitions. I know that Donahoe is readily available to answer your questions Nick, but let's fully look at the records and appropriately give credit where credit is due with a little less bias in the future. And keep up the good work!
Mark Horsfall, Berkley
A: You can make numbers read what ever you'd like, fact is top personnel people aren't going to be great every year. You look at the body of work. And the body of work shows as clear as day that he's one of the most successful personnel men in football today. That's just not me saying that. Ask any national football writer - Peter King or Len Pasquarelli or John Clayton. Ask anyone in the game including other football people. Who did Bob Kraft want to bring in to run personnel after he had hired Belichick? Donahoe. If you want to disparage Donahoe just because I think he's terrific that's your prerogative. I do agree with you on Tom Modrak, and if you refer to a column I did when he was let go by the Eagles, I think you'll see how I feel about him. In fact, in that very column I took Eagles owner Jeff Lurie and president Joe Banner to task, and they're two other people I have great respect for. Having both Modrak and Donahoe in Buffalo is a potent combination. And by the way, I speak or see Belichick every day. I speak to Donahoe once or twice a month. I know it is fashionable in some circles to say or accuse me of not getting along with Belichick. A good case of where perception is not reality.
Nick, why did you feel compelled to answer every last question concerning Lawyer Milloy last week when they were basically all the same? Did it supply you with enough opportunities to rip your nemesis evil Bill Belichick and praise executive of the year Tom Donahoe?
Bob, Amherst, N.H.
A: I feel compelled to answer as many questions as possible.
Nick, What is the status of Rosie Colvin? A partial hip dislocation sounds rather serious. Will we see him back soon or will this be a season long injury?
Joe Sawhill, Des Moines, Iowa
A: Obviously it is serious. The partial dislocation caused a fracture and he's out for the season. They can all put any spin they want on it, until we see him on the field playing at the same speed he did prior to the injury, I won't be convinced about his future.
I hate it when a player holds out for more money when they signed a contract. Same goes with the Patriots, they signed the contract live up to it. They obviously underestimated Lawyer Milloy's market value. I predict that the record will show that the Pats let 2 Hall-of-Famers, a Super Bowl(s) and a bunch of fans slip off to a divisional rival.
Jim Abbott, Orrington
A: You're probably right, Jim. I'm not sure about the fans slipping off to become Bills fans. I think we saw some of that in the first game, but that was out of the emotion of the moment.
I have wondering about this particular Tom Brady question for quite some time now. Wouldn't it be a good idea for him to do a lot of personal training/speed work in the offseason? It seems like him and Donovan McNabb need to flip-flop workouts (McNabb needs to learn how to pass, and Brady to run). Brady really needs to learn how to be more elusive, because Brady can't be counted on to run for the first down if needed.
Dave, Minneapolis, Minn.
A: Tom works harder than anyone in the offseason. I think his footwork is very good. He can move enough to get out of harms way. He's not going to be a runner like McNabb or a Grogan because he doesn't have that type of natural speed. The Patriots had a terrific speed coach in Mike Morris, who they let go. Mike is now making the Bucs faster.
Nick Before the season started I marked W and L on my Patriots Calendar near each game trying to predict how they would finish for the season. I came up with a record of 12-4 with their 4 losses coming @ Philly, Tenn, @ Miami and @ Denver. So after week 8 I have them at 5-3 do you think I am way off on my prediction, right on or somewhere in between? I did have them @ 1-1 after 2 games I just had the W and L flip-flopped! I also have them winning the final 7 games of the season.
Adam Tyson, Leeds
A: I think you were on the right track. I thought 12 wins was always too high. If they can come close to that now with all of the injuries they've had, hats off to Belichick.
This is really not a question but an opinion and I as the question ,do you agree? I believe Tedy Bruschi is one of the true leaders of the Pats and thought Lawyer Milloy was an outstanding player, he wasn't as much a leader as the media said he was...A leader does for the team and Lawyer Milloy was asked to take a cut, as a fan who is disabled and on a limited income, I find it very difficult to have support for a man who refused to work with his team and go from +/- 4and1/2million dollars to roughly 3 million dollars...this team seems to go as Bruschi goes and if he can't go the team is sluggish and the same goes for Tom Brady, when Brady is off so is the offense... Milloy made his decision and made his commitment to money...I wish now the media and us fans would let it go and concentrate more on the men here that want to be here to represent themselves and the New England Patriot Fans....
Fred MacDonald, Salem, Mass. 01970
A: I think most people have let it go. It will rear its ugly head again if the team begins to lose and as injuries mount.
Nothing like a good win to make you feel better about the home team. But something else Milloy-related occurred to me. In many technology companies, employees have to sign a non-disclosure agreement that prevents them from sharing trade secrets with future employers. I don't suppose the NFL has such a practice specifically spelled out in the rulebook, but do you think a team could actually initiate and enforce an NDA? It would've kept Milloy's mouth shut once he arrived in Buffalo and maybe we wouldn't have been thrashed so badly in that game.
Jason Rubin, Melrose
A: Might be on to something Jason. I haven't heard that, but leave it to the NFL to institute another rule that the NFLPA will go for.
Hey Nick, I was wondering about the practice squad. Every year we hear that so many players are released and then re-signed to the practice squad but it doesn't seem like there are enough re-signings to field a scout team for weekly practices. How does this work? Also, could they be activated in case of injury such as if we have ANOTHER linebacker go down like Colvin and Johnson have already! Keep up the good work Nick! GO PATS! -Drill Sergeant McCarthy/U.S.Army HUAH!
Paul McCarthy, Pensacola/FL
A: Each team is allowed 5 practice squad guys. They would have to be signed to the active roster ahead of the game. On scout teams it's usually the backups and practice squad guys who participate on them. Sometimes the regulars take it upon themselves to be on the scout team. Shawn Jefferson, probably the best team player the Patriots ever had, would always participate on the scout teams and urge his teammates to do the same.
Hey Nick, What is the status of Mike Cloud's calf injury that he suffered in training camp? I know he is serving a 4 game suspension but I have heard no word if he will be ready for week 5 after the surgery he had. Thanks, Jamie
Jamie Barrett, Newton
A: I'm told he won't need too much time after Week 4 to get ready. Question is, will they activate him?
Hi Nick, Love the mailbag. With Rosevelt Colvin and Ted Johnson out, do you think we will be seeing any of Dan Klecko filling in for either of them? I know Belichick played him as an LB in a couple of practices. I would love to see him get some more playing time. What do you think?
Mark Iwanicki, Watertown
A: Sure. Klecko has been active out of necessity. I think the staff is still trying to fine tune a role for him, but he played well against Washington with a sack and a blocked field goal.
Can you give us an update on our #1 draft choice Ty Warren?
David Balmelli, Lake Forest, IL
A: Coming along slowly. Reading between the lines, it appears he's having problems understanding some of the complicated schemes. Nothing to be alarmed about. Physically, he's going to be able to compete in the league.
What does the talent look like at the Running Back position for next years NFL draft? It is never too early to start thinking about that!
Ben Peasley, Chilmaltenago, Guatemala
A: I think we're all waiting to see the result of the Maurice Clarett suit against the NFL. I think he's going to be a great back.
Nick, Do you think there's a chance the Patriots would implement a program similar to the "Smart Fan" program the Sox had this season? It seems like it would be a great way for fans to buy tickets to games, and for season ticket holders to sell their tickets without the risk of losing their seats if some bonehead winds up with them.
Dave Shea, South Boston
A: Dave, that's a great suggestion. Hearing of too many incidents of fans losing tickets for that reason. I don't think some of them are very fair.
Why is the media so obnoxious in there press conferences with the football coach of the Patriots?
Jay Goldstein, Framingham, Mass.
A: I'm there every day and I would never consider them "obnoxious." Don't really know what you're talking about. Can you be specific? Here's the thing: the team calls the press conference. The media elects to attend it. The point of a press conference is for the media to ask questions and for the person being asked the questions to answer them. When a media person asks a question and does not receive anything resembling a specific answer, then the media should ask a follow-up in an attempt to get information. Otherwise, it's a useless exercise. I'm not sure what you do for a living, but if you're trying to obtain information, even in your personal life and the person you're asking isn't going to give it you, what would your reaction be? "Ok fine, thanks anyway?" If you're a reporter your business is information. I'm not sure why that's a hard concept to understand or why persistent questioning is considered "obnoxious." Now I can understand if President Bush can't answer a specific question especially if it effects national security. But a football coach?
How many players are on the team.
Cameron James D'Andrea, Essex/ Mass
A: 53, but only 45 are active for the game.
Nick, You certainly seem dismissive of Rodney Harrison when you look for a "replacement for Milloy". Certainly Bill Belichick's track record regarding cutting players speaks for itself. His teams have only gone onto great success despite daring cuts of players that he felt the team did not need or could not afford. I am curious, why do you feel that Harrison will not be a suitable replacement to Milloy? After two games, Harrison has twice as many tackles and four times as many pass deflections as Milloy. Lawyer may have been emotionally pumped for week 1, but he was non-existent in the Jaguars game. Secondly, Milloy is quick to jump on the Patriots organization, citing them for a lack of loyalty when they asked him to NOT be the highest paid safety in the league. The salary they offered was higher than the average of the top 5 players at his position. Fans judge Milloy on an emotional level, but his performance certainly isn't at the level of the top 5 safeties in the league. I am curious who you think showed a greater lack of loyalty ... the Patriots for attempting to renegotiate a valued players contract that was going to be a real problem in 2004 and beyond ... or Milloy and his agent working behind the scenes to line their own pockets and point the finger at the Patriots? Thirdly, do you think that a 5 million dollar signing bonus and 2.5 million dollar salary for 2 years is too high a price to pay for a safety who is past his prime and not markedly better than your current young promising safety? It seems to me that Buffalo has painted themselves into a corner salary cap wise down the road, and players such as Bledsoe and Milloy (and others) will be asked by that franchise to restructure or face a release in 2004 and 2005. Lastly, I am curious how much of a factor you believe Carl Poston was in the decision for Milloy to ask for his release. Considering that Poston did not negotiate Milloy's contract with the Pats, and was therefore not receiving a commission for Milloy's salary ... it would seem that Poston had absolutely zero incentive to see Milloy stay with the Patriots. The Pats had been widely reported to be working on renegotiating with Lawyer since April. Could Poston's desire to fatten his own wallet been a real hindrance to working a legitimate solution to Milloy's contract with the Patriots?
Wally Shedd, Portsmouth, NH
A: I don't think I ever wrote or said Harrison wasn't a suitable replacement. I would have preferred the both of them together. I blame the Patriots on Milloy. If you no longer feel Milloy is the player you signed to that contract, I think you knew that in March, didn't you? I'm not sure how anyone can justify cutting a player of that magnitude that close to the start of the season. If the Patriots miss the playoffs by a game, or miss home field advantage by a game, or go in as a wild card as opposed to a divisional winner, you can point to that decision affecting the outcome of that one game. All contracts get renegotiated. It was the intent of Milloy's former agent, Ray Anderson, that the contract would be renegotiated after this year and before a $2 million option bonus kicked in. Even Anderson didn't believe the deal would be redone prior to this season. As far as Poston fattening his own wallet, will we ever know? He did negotiate and he did present a bottom line number that he would accept on behalf of Milloy. He said he would accept an $800,000 pay cut from $4.4 million to $3.6 million. The Patriots wanted him to go (originally) from $4.4 to $2.5. They came up to $3 million.
Nick, After hearing all of the great preseason comments about Daniel Graham's development, he still appears to be "Missing in Action" as an important component of the passing game. Are the Pats simply not calling his number, or does he still not know the pro game. I hope he's not the tight end version of Hart Lee Dykes! I'm interested in your observations.
Bill Olsen, N. Chelmsford, MA.
A: They got him involved a little more against the Jets and Redskins. I've got to believe that role will expand. Graham blocks well and I think for the moment they feel they need max protection for Brady given his elbow injury. You also have a very productive Christian Fauria.
Hey Nick, Don't you think if Klecko lost 25-30lbs that he could be an excellent linebacker? Maybe of the Zack Thomas/Levon Kirkland variety?
Ed Johnson, Claremont, NH
A: I think that would be too much weight for him to lose. I don't really believe he's 280 pounds. I would make him a middle linebacker rather than mess around with the outside stuff and nose tackle.
Nick, Why do you hate the Patriots? Can you accept that they traded away Drew Bledsoe
Jeff Smith, Wellesley MA
A: I love that idea. You probably can't do it until after the World Series and I know the networks would take a nutty because of their commitment to college football, but you're right, especially in our neck of the woods college football isn't a high priority.
which quarterback do you think is better for the pats? Brady or Huard, or Davey
Jared Richmond, Swampscott Mass.
A: Brady.
Hey Nick, My question was regarding Dan Klecko. Unless I am mistaken during training camp, didn't they try him out at the outside linebacker spot? And then my follow-up question is considering he was a defensive lineman in college wouldn't it make more sense to try him at middle linebacker considering he's used to matching up with O-Lineman. Finally, considering our injuries at linebacker... do you think there is a chance we will get to see him play some as a linebacker? Thanks for reading (and hopefully responding to my question).
Erik Malicbegovic, Salem
A: Eric, As I wrote earlier, I'd like to see him tried at middle linebacker. I'm not sure why that hasn't happened except for the fact that it might be a more difficult position for a young player because of the reads you have to make. We've seen him at outside LB the last two games, and I would guess with all of the injuries, that would continue.
I was wondering if you could do a "Where are they Now" series, maybe one former Patriot a week. Or are you too busy now with the season in progress? Thanks for your response!
Ben Peasley, Chilmantenago, Guatemala
A: That's a great idea and one I'd love to do, but I think that's one of those features that somebody else who doesn't cover the team would have to do simply because of time.
Nick what can you tell us about the Colvin injury? Hip injuries are serious business as Albert Belle and Bo Jackson can attest. Do you have any further details on the nature of the injury?
Chris Watson, S. Portland, Maine
A: I was told it's a partial dislocation that led to a fracture of the hipbone.
Nick, You heard it hear first (okay, maybe not first) but I think Travis Henry will be in a Patriots uniform next year. With the drafting of Willis McGahee it makes him expendable. His numbers have been good enough for him to be marketable, but not spectacular enough where Buffalo needs to keep him. The Patriots have the draft picks to trade next year. Then we will hear from Henry how Buffalo Bills has a terrible organization that doesn't know how to treat people and it was a slap in the face that they drafted McGahee. What do you think?
Mike Mineau, Pawtucket, RI
A: Crazier things have happened. I would never discount that theory.
Hey Nick, In your mailbag of 9/12 you said you were surprised at how popular Lawyer was with the fans. Well, all you have to do is read some internet message boards to see the consensus is good riddance. Sure he was a good player but this is a labor/management decision. The comments he made, hanging up on Kraft and the SI King article showed him to be what he was. The same 22yr punk who started here. Zero class and money all the way. You say Milloy reads this so I say to him you ain't worth the money, buddy. Buff overpaid. They will cut you in two years. Where you gonna go? You will just wander till your career ends. Just another journeyman in the NFL. Too bad. Oh, and Nick, did you really believe the Patriots would loose to the eagles. You know how to pick em!
Matt Skennion, Ft Lauderdale FL
A: Matt, I don't read message boards, but I do read the hundreds of letters that come through here on a weekly basis. For three weeks here it was 95 percent Milloy and 5 percent Patriots. As far as my picks, maybe I can take some tips from you Matt. You pick 16 Patriots games against the spread right on the money every year I'm told.
All right Nick, the infirmary report reads like a who's who of defenders out of stupidly cut and subsequently picked up by the immediate competition. With Colvin and Johnson history for the foreseeable future and Milloy gone for good, what are the Pats options? Anyone hanging around the practice squad who could fill those shoes? Any free agents with promise? Is there a trading deadline in the NFL? No doubt competition brings out the best in people, McGinest showed that last week. With Colvin gone for sure, McGinest is guaranteed to see more than his fair share of playing time. Do you think he will get complacent, and can we do anything to fill Colvin's shoes? Your take please.
Darren Miles, Miami, FL
A: Darren, at this stage you have to hope there are no more injuries. Willie is a very good replacement for Colvin, but can he old up playing more plays per game over and entire season? If he does, he can pick up the slack. You have to hope a guy like Matt Chatham can emerge from special teams player to linebacker. Some guy you weren't depending on has to emerge as a good player. At this stage, there's nobody left in free agency that could help you. As fare as a trade? Forget it. They're hard to make for salary cap reasons and because teams are protecting their areas of depth.
Nick, Love the column Nick, it gives a unique insight into what the fans and you are thinking about the Pats. You and Peter King are the men! Nick, hate to dredge up Bledsoe/Brady but is there any question as to whom you would want starting for your team against the Jets? Whenever Brady goes for 15 yards it seems like a 30-yarder the way they dink and dunk. You can't keep telling us that he can go deep without the proof. Also, any chance Eugene Wilson is going to help us forget Lawyer since he's playing safety now?
Neil Meyerkopf, New York
A: Well, I don't think he's going to be able to go deep now with an elbow injury. Prior to that, I thought he could, but that's just my opinion. You're right he hasn't offered any proof he can do it. And he sure didn't against the Redskins. As for Wilson, I hope using him as a free safety doesn't slow his development as a corner. Free safety isn't where you want your second round draft pick corner playing in the long term. Wilson is built like a corner not a safety. Will he be a four-time Pro Bowl safety before his 30th birthday like Milloy has been? I'd say no.
WHY THE PATS WILL WIN THE SUPERBOWL THIS YEAR
Jared Turcotte, Lowell, Mass.
A: I wrote a book called the Impossible Team after they won in '01. This would be The Really Impossible Team if they did it again.
Nick - What has happened to Anthony Pleasant? With all the mounting injuries, do you think he will be active this week?
Keith Mitchell, North Andover
A: Other than Ted Washington, the D-line is in tact. At this stage in his career, Pleasant is a spot player and a part time coach. I think that's what he's here for.
Hey Nick: You provide great coverage! I am sending a message as a season ticket holder and a fan about the customer service in the parking lot at Gillette. As you know, the parking is now $30, compared to $10 at the Meadowlands. For that, you basically get screamed at by a bunch of high school kids who tell you can not go where you want (to meet friends), but then every other car gets sent in a new direction. On top of that, when you are meeting friends at a designated numbered pool in the lot, the staff has no clue where any of these sections are. It is serious seems like these kids get a call on Saturday night, get handed a jacket on Sunday morning, and then just stand around causing more chaos than anything else. Bottom line, if you are going to charge that much to park your car, the Patriots should at a minimum provide the staff with some basic maps, and basic common sense for allowing people to get where they want/need to go for the $30. Anything you think can be done about this? I am sending my note along to the Patriots as well. Thanks!
John Kelly, Charlestown
A: It's unfortunate there are so many complaints by fans. I receive a ton of them. It's such a great facility and the Krafts have done a great job providing this great new venue for the fans. I get the feeling at some point everyone will get their act together. I'm sure you never solve all of the problems and stop all of the complaints, but you're right about one thing: when you spend $30 to park your car you should be able to get good service in return, and I'm sure the Patriots management feels that way as well.
I have two separate questions: A) I love the way your writing is usually very objective; not just rah-rah Patriots. But why did you write a piece about how well the Pats were able to run the ball against the Jets, without mentioning that the Jets were ranked something like 30th against the run coming into the game? After 3 games they now rank 31st, behind even the Cleveland Browns. Were you not aware of the stat or do you feel that they are really much better than that? B) Supposing that Roosevelt Colvin, or any player, is injured and unable to play the rest of the season. Does he still count against the salary cap? Thanks for the fantastic job you do every week!
Kenneth Utting, Jacksonville, FL
A: I see what you're saying Kenneth. The truth is, I don't put a lot of stock in team rankings this early in the season. I like the accumulation of five or six games before the trend of where a team ranks against the run or the pass provides me with a better sample of exactly where they are. Believe me, I go through the rankings and read them, but you also have to give credit to the Patriots for the way they ran and mixed up their plays. It's not always just because the other team is bad. On your cap question, let's say Colvin's career ended after the fractured hip. The Patriots would be responsible for the remaining $5 million of his signing bonus, which would go on their cap next season.
Nick, I have two questions both regarding Adam Vinatieri. I think he is coming awfully close to having to consider him as one of the best of all time. When you consider the consistency and the number of clutch field goals he's made, I think he ranks right up there with the best of all time. He is as close to an automatics as I can remember and has been for a few years. Would you put him at that level at this point? My second question is how big of an advantage does he give Bill Belichick each Sunday?
Ettore Santarelli, Methuen
A: Preaching to the choir Ettore. He's so consistent from almost any distance (I was surprised he missed on the 46-yarder vs. Washington). I know people were concerned in preseason when he missed a couple. And that's why he received a three-year guaranteed contract. How many guys in the NFL have guaranteed deals? Not many. He gives Belichick peace of mind. It gives Belichick the mindset, lets keep the game close and win it with Vinatieri. Having said that when Vinatieri is on the field too much it means the team isn't playing well in the red zone.
Thinking ahead to the RB situation next year, do you think the Pats would turn the tables and go after Travis Henry? The Bills drafting of McGhee might make him expendable. As well, when the draft picks were being accumulated for the 2004 draft, I immediately thought that Bill B. was maneuvering for Clarrett. I know they usually avoid "character issues", but at the same time he is being advised by Jim Brown, who is still close with Bill from the Cleveland days. Any thoughts?
Scott Cooley, Centerport, NY
A: Right. Another reader brought up the Henry possibility. I'm guessing that Donahoe would want to trade him rather than release him. He would have prime trade value. Of course, Donahoe would have to make sure McGahee is completely recovered. I'm a big Clarett fan, and the Jim Brown scenario is a definite factor. I get the feeling the Clarett suit will be tied up in the courts until he does become draft eligible in '05.
It seems every season the Pats are scheduled to play the Broncos, the game is almost always an away game in Denver. Again this year the Broncos game is an away game. Don't the NFL schedulers have any sense of fairness given the fact that the Broncos have an number of advantages playing at mile-high-stadium?
Bert Forest, Norwood, Mass.
A: That stuff is all based on a formula they use for schedule making. I'm getting sick of going to Denver as well.
Nick I attended several games last year and I went the Jets game on Sunday. I have a few friends who have Club Seats , I never thought I would say this but I miss Foxboro Stadium! Now don't get me wrong, Gillette Stadium is probably the best sports stadium in the country and I love it but it seems that at least half people who have Club Seats never sit in them. They spend most of the game inside in the posh environment watching the game on TV or through the windows. I for one am always in my seat no matter the weather, the only time I head inside is for a bathroom break or halftime. At least at Foxboro Stadium you had to sit in your seats, there was no place else to go and there was a major home field crowd advantage there, at the new place I have yet to sense the crowd playing a factor in the game. I fear that as the temps drop more and more people will choose to not sit in their seats by selecting the comforts of inside just like last year. I had the pleasure of being at the Snow Game 2 years ago and had the greatest time and never once wished there was an inside refuge to go to.
Adam Tyson, Leeds
A: I think what it comes to is some people go to watch the game and some go for the ambiance of the club. I think when people went to games at the old place they went for the love of the game. I'm not saying that people in club seats don't love the game, but when you pay that much money and you have this great club lounge, why wouldn't you want to spend some time there?
Great column Nick, keep up the outstanding work: My question deals with the nauseating, transparent injury reports that our fearless leader, Mr. Belichick has insisted on since day 1: what do you think he or the team gains from this withholding of information? It also goes to the heart of the team management. If lies are told on a consistent basis, the outstanding players will speak with their feet, eventually, or is there some strategy here that I am missing? signed, Concerned in Grady and Trot Country
David Yaffe, Raleigh, NC
A: I don't know what they gain from withholding information on a player who won't play for them this year. I guess on the other guys, they feel the other team will game plan around someone's injury. I suppose that could happen. It's just that football is such a fast game where you have to react so quickly and violently, I'm not sure how much of that stuff actually pertains. Anyway, I think early in any game the players on both sides know which guys are hurting and which guys are healthy. Tampa Bay is very open with their injuries as is Baltimore, both of them have won Super Bowls recently.
I'm a big fan of Patrick Pass and was glad to see him re-signed by the Pats. Do you see him playing a significant role in the running game, especially with Antowain struggling? Also, with Pass being resigned is their still a roster spot open for Mike Cloud when his suspension is over?
Stephen Higgs, The Bahamas
A: I see Patrick being used on kickoff returns and coverages. He did a nice job against the Redskins, running one back 36 yards. I'd be surprised if he was used in the offense. They seem to like Larry Centers as the changeup back. On Cloud, I'm not sure where he fits. As Kevin Faulk is accepted more each week as the lead back, it might be hard for Cloud to have a roster spot.
Hi Nick. I'd to talk about the tight end position. For whatever reason, many of my all-time favorite players have been tight ends and the Pats have had some of the greatest over the years, including Bob Windsor, Russ Francis, Don Hasselbeck, Marv Cook, and Ben Coates. Since Coates, however, the position's been up for grabs. I like Fauria; right now he's being used for TD scores in the red zone (much like Hasselbeck when he started), but I can see him running in the open field like Francis and Coates could. Graham got what seemed like a lot of action in the Jets game, but all I could think of was how incredibly slow he seemed. And what's the word on Fred Baxter? Who do you think will be the man this year in the tight end spot, and who in your opinion is the best blocker in the bunch? Do you think this is a corps that Belichick can be satisfied with, or can you see a move being made in the offseason?
Jason Rubin, Melrose
A: Graham is an under rated blocker. He's actually very good at it. He's also their most talented tight end. He could be the all-purpose guy like Coates. Fauria is one of those guys whose experience in the league has made him very effective. He blocks well and catches everything thrown his way. Baxter is more of a blocker and the best of the three on special teams. I think once they start using Graham more, his true talent will come out.
Hi Nick Love your mail bag. Just wanted to comment that watching Bledsoe during the Mon. night game BB made the right call. On two plays Bledsoe failed to pan the field and though two interception not like Brady who looks at all his receivers and then runs in for a TD. Also Milloy didn't show me too much except for a nice interference penalty. Patriots are hurting and I think they're playing with a lot of heart. However they are going up a against an improved Redskins team who just lost on Mon. night. With all the injuries do you think BB will be hunting for replacements? See ya in DC Sunday. Go pats!!!!
Mark Metivier, Williamsburg, VA
A: I think we have the tendency to react to one game good or bad. The way I've always looked at it is that Bledsoe and Milloy are two huge pieces to the puzzle the Bills didn't have back when they won three games two years ago. There are always going to be games when Bledsoe looks awful. It's the nature of the style of quarterback he is. If he doesn't get protected, he's going to throw interceptions. When he does get time, he'll pick you apart like he did against the Patriots and Jacksonville. Milloy brings a great presence to that team. He's a missing link. Miami is always going to be very tough in Miami in September (the Houston game aside). What happened to Buffalo has and could again, happen to the Patriots. As for the Patriots, nobody should ever question their heart, desire and will to win. They lost to Washington, but they played hard.
You stated in the pre-season that Roosevelt Colvin was one of two players that would constitute a devastating loss to the team. Now that fully one third of the starters (including Colvin) are gone or injured is it reasonable to even hope for a playoff berth. I know that Belichick's system can confuse some offenses and might be enough to eek out a win against a young QB like Ramsey but losing so many starters seems to make the coaching job mission impossible.
Peter A. Dwyer, Santa Fe, NM
A: Yeah, but this is the type of situation Belichick excels in. This is where his schemes can win games. The Patriots did a lot of scheming against the Redskins and almost pulled it out.
Do the Patriots receive any relief from the 2003-2004 Salary Cap when players are lost to season ending injuries? It looks like we are going to have to bring in some free agents to fill some of the holes. Even though they will come pretty cheap, do we have the cap room w/out restructuring current contracts?
Michael Gay, Walpole
A: Unfortunately, there's no cap relief.
Hello, With the fallout over the stadium improvements needed in order for New York to host a Super Bowl I have not heard New England's name. I thought our new stadium is supposed to be among the leagues best? Do we have a shot at hosting the Super Bowl in the future? Jeff
Jeff Bechen, Jacksonville, NC
A: I've never heard NE mentioned, but it's worth checking on. I wish it would just be played in one place. Maybe the league should build a facility in a warm climate, or a dome and call it Super Bowl Stadium. I think New Orleans appears to be the favorite spot.
I hate to paraphrase Isiah Thomas but if Dan Klecko wasn't white he'd be just another good guy. Do you agree he's getting way too much press? I mean, sure there's the whole Joe Klecko's son angle but for a guy who's made as many tackles as [fill in the name of a former player who's son is a banker] wouldn't it be more appropriate for Klecko to take the "no comment until I dirty my uniform" stance? Isn't he embarrassed to be interviewed while someone more deserving like J'Rod Cherry, who's about three times more important than him to the team, gets no press?
Johnny Mongoose, Boston
A: I think he got a lot of press in preseason, and now that he's playing he's doing pretty well. I think the people who cover the team understand what he is and that he needs to prove something before he gets big time ink. A sack and a block vs. Washington is pretty impressive.
Hi Nick! I share your thoughts that Maurice Clarett would look good in New England. I know its early, but "IF" he wins his lawsuit, how high in the first round do you figure he will be drafted? With Ted Washington out, will Belichick try Klecko at NT or stick with the Lyle/Green duo? Also did J.R. Redmond ever hook on with another team? Thanks, keep up the good work.
SFC T.J. Beary, Fort Jackson, SC
A: The big debate is whether Clarett would be a first round pick. I would think he would be, but I've talked to personnel people who say they wouldn't touch him until the second round because he's so young and he had injury problems as a freshman. If McGahee can go Round One, I think Clarett could as well. I think Belichick will stick with Lyle/Green, but in the 4-3 they used vs. Washington we did see Warren on the nose.
Hi, I am 11 years old and love the Patriots. My dad told me to read you every week to know what's going on. My favorite player is Vinatieri and I wear his jersey on Sundays. I won a trivia contest at the youth center for getting his name right for winning the super bowl with his kick. I won a bobble head doll, but it was of a Carolina Panther! Will Vinatieri always be on the Patriots?
Samantha "Patriot" Beary, Fort Jackson, SC
A: I can't imagine a day he wouldn't be a Patriot. He has one more year on his contract after this season and sometimes players do leave because they don't feel they're being paid enough. If Adam continues to perform at this level, he will demand a huge salary when his contract is up and there would be several teams who would pay the price.
Hey Nick, One of my favorite things to do every week is read the mailbag because I value your opinion on Patriot matters. So here is my question. It seems that we have an abundance of injuries at LB and DL. I was wondering if you think it is because of all the different schemes BB runs in his defensive system. Most of the defense is always moving around giving different looks and a lot of times they do not line up, break down, and tackle. They are forced to used their arms instead of their bodies to take a brunt of the blow and their legs are not really under them when they make a tackle because they are sometimes not in position to do so. (hence a lot of injuries to arms and legs) It was just an observation I have seen past couple of weeks and wanted to know if you agree, or is it just bad luck.
Jamie Volpicelli, Trumbull CT
A: All theories are welcome here. I wish I had one. Washington, for instance, was injured after the play was over. He was in a pile and his leg bent the wrong way. Vrabel was injured on kick off coverage and he said a player just hit his arm with his elbow in the right place and broke it. Wasn't even a major collision. I guess I'm leaning toward the bad luck theory.
5' 9", 5' 9", 5' 10", & 5' 8": This problem is going on three years now. Yes they're fast but the Pat's key offensive weapons are too small......what's it going to take to get some size in there? The offense needs to start playing, now that the ' D ' is on IR.
Dan Humphreys, Winfield KS
A: The lack of size can definitely wear these guys out. You see Troy Brown taking some big hits on those curl-ins and some of those quick slants and you wonder how he stays healthy. We've already seen David Givens and David Patten banged up. There's always next year in free agency or the draft, I guess. I wonder how hard the Patriots will pursue top free agents after their experience with Colvin.
Nick, you're a paisano, right? So you know what I mean when I say Basta! to the Milloy letters. Enough already. Time to move on to the third phase of the year (1. pre-season euphoria...Super Bowl bound 2. BB blows up the lab): the Rebuilding Year. With the injuries, that's what it's become, right? Lots of looks at the kids and scaled back expectations. Can there be more than that?
Dan Riley, Vista, CA
A: Dan, I've just tried to accommodate the Milloy venting. When 90 percent of the letters were on Milloy back then, you knew what was on people's minds. I'm not sure you can blow anything up yet. What if they have a winning record when they get Ted J and Ted W back? It's much too long of a season to make that rebuilding declaration right now.
Hi Nick. When i see A. smith in the backfield I loose all hope that anything positive can happen. I vote for packaging as many draft picks they have to get the best available RB in '04. RB should be # 1 priority.
Justin Fernandes, Springfield
A: Justin, I don't think anyone would argue with you as we stand right now. After 16 games, it might be something else.
Hey Nick! I am writing from the Bronx, yes the Bronx. I have been a Pats fan since watching Steve Grogan destroy the jets in a blowout in I believe '79. My question is this, who do you believe has the best chance of becoming the third Patriot to become a Hall of Famer? will it be Armstrong, Bledsoe, and Cappalletti or maybe you had someone else in mind. Keep up the good work.
Pasquale Mellampe, Bronx, New York
A: If I were a voter, I'd vote for Ben Coates. But of the people you mentioned the "best chance" will be Bledsoe.
Nick, Are the Pats considering hitting the waiver wire for a veteran linebacker (or two) to fill in for Johnson, Vrabel, and Johnson? Glenn
Glenn Cipolla, Newburyport
A: I know that another mans trash could be another mans treasurer, but not much to chose from.
I know Robert Edwards was released by the Dolphins earlier this year. Has any team picked him up. It seems to me he was a decent 3rd back. Any chance the Pats might want to take a second look?
Tom Maszczak, Nashua
A: Nobody picked him up and the Patriots opted for Pass. Edwards didn't appreciate the way Belichick handled his release here. I don't think you'll see him here.
Nick, I read your GTM column this week, good article, Grogan is one of my all time favorite Pats. Not to resurrect a dead issue, but another one of my all time favorites is Bledsoe. No mention of him on the GTM? Come on, as Patriot QB's go, other than Grogan, no one was tougher or more durable than Bledsoe. I like Brady, but I don't think he has even shown Bledsoe-esque toughness yet. Thanks for the great stories
Joseph Shinnick, Chapel Hill, NC
A: Certainly didn't mean to slight Drew. His toughness speaks for itself, but in that piece obviously I felt Grogan was the toughest of the tough and we have to measure every one else's toughness to Grogans. Brady is playing in pain right now and you have to give the guy credit for that.
What has been the general breakdown of people supporting the Lawyer Milloy cut and people opposing it? I assume it's about 99% against.
Eric J Alexander, Vineyard Haven
A: In this forum, which to my knowledge is the biggest Patriots forum on the internet, yes.
Hi Nick, With the team depth now thin due to injury, any chance of a major trade (draft picks ) for a disgruntled / benched player ? The team is well under the cap and could use help on both sides of the ball. Or is it likely BB will ride out the season and accept whatever record and its high draft picks. You would expect a team with such major injuries to be easily sub-500. (Although I BE-lieve!) John Harrison`s Roast Beef in N. Andover rules !
John Poirier, E. Bridgewater
A: I wish the trading deadline (Oct. 14) meant something. 