Thoughts through nine

From bosoxj in Cali, via Waterville Maine; I think it is apparent that the O line is in the same condition as last year. Do you think the Pats are from the start going to install a majority of blocking packages that include leaving TE's and RB's back for protection? I think it was very apparent during the SB that type of scheme should have been employed more. I think the Pats will find those blocking schemes mandatory this year, with out them TB might find himself on IR.

bosoxj: The Patriots had the best OL last season up until the SB and it wasn't really in dispute. They had a terrible game in the SB but I think its clear that was a problem of physical performance rather than scheme. You're focusing on the SB way too much

One says a good surprise is cornerback, the other says cornerback is not great.

Hmm...

The offensive line in the same shape as last year? I highly doubt the Pats put more TEs on the field to help out the right side. The same personel is likley to be used. Light/Logan/Koppen/Hoch/Kaczur thats the same personel in the superbowl but thats a pretty good line until Neal gets back. Not worried about the offensive line at all.

Great stuff though Mike and Gas

I'm not overly concerned about the offensive line either. However, we are a bit short at tight end with no great blockers. I think we may see the offense this year and in certain situations employ 6 OLs instead of the extra tight end.

What most excites me is the opportunity to have AD (Adalious Thomas) on the outside for the whole season. He came on strong from there at the end of last year and he and Vrabel should give us strong pressure and containment from the edges.

Tom Brady is going to have a stellar year again! Watch them to repaet 16-0 but this time win the SUPER BOWL!

I think a big key in offensive line play is the play calling, and particularly whether the defense can anticipate and tee off on a particular expected play. It can make the offensive line a lot more effective if the defense can't tell whether it's a run or pass until after the ball is snapped. I think that was a weakness last year, the Pats' play calling was not up to the level of the rest of their game. The addition of Jordan can help a lot, with him in the backfield there could be blocking help to give Moss and Welker time to work, or a running play, or even a swing pass - keeps the defense off balance, makes it easier for the blockers to establish their intentions.

Good thing Reiss wears glasses, otherwise I would not know who was Gasper and Who was Reiss