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August 4, 2007
Top 5 storylines
The Patriots have the day off. With this being a checkpoint of training camp, here is a recap of what we feel are the top five stories to develop over the Patriots’ first 12 practices:
1) Chad Scott's injury. The Patriots had Scott, an 11-year veteran, running with the first unit. His presence was all the more important with Asante Samuel remaining away from training camp, but in the second practice of camp, Scott landed awkwardly and was carted off the field. The injury, likely a knee, was a season-ender as he landed on injured reserve. That has elevated Randall Gay (8 games over the last 2 seasons) to the top spot, but keep an eye on Brandon Meriweather here. The first-round pick has generally looked sharp at cornerback.
2) The impact of Randy Moss. Simply put, Tom Brady hasn’t had a receiver like Moss, and watching the two develop a rapport has been intriguing at times. Initially, Brady seemed to be struggling to adjust to the speed in which Moss got down the field, with some of the long, rainbow-arcing passes falling short of the mark. But on the day Moss appeared to tweak his hamstring, the two were putting on a clinic of sorts – whether it be long balls, intermediate routes, patterns across the middle, or near the goal-line. As long as Moss is healthy, he is going to be a major weapon.
3) Adalius Thomas in the middle. One of the top questions entering training camp was where linebacker Adalius Thomas would line up in the 3-4 defense. So far, it’s been all inside, which has allowed Mike Vrabel to lock in at his more natural spot on the outside. Thomas has been as advertised, a versatile player who can take on the run on first down, drop back into coverage on second down, and rush the passer with his hand in the dirt on third down.
4) The receiver race. One of the top disappointments has been Donte' Stallworth starting on the physically unable to perform list. That has created more opportunity for Jabar Gaffney, who has taken advantage, often lining up alongside Randy Moss and Wes Welker. Gaffney has been one of the top surprises of camp.
5) Bill Belichick on his future. The Patriots coach doesn’t often address his future, but his comments from the second day of camp shed some light on his thinking. That’s why it makes our cut of the top five stories to develop out of the first 12 days of camp. “I don't talk about contracts, but I would say I like working here, I like the organization -- ownership, coaches, scouts, players and the guys I work with. I appreciate the opportunity to work here and it's a good situation,” Belichick said. “I don't see that changing any time soon."
SUNDAY LOOK-AHEAD: The Patriots have a single practice scheduled for Sunday, at 5 p.m.
Posted By: mreiss | Time: 01:04:00 PM | E-mail | Link
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