Turnovers, not injuries, reason for loss

Page 8 of 17 -- 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.

ADVERTISEMENT

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.   Continued...