New England Patriots
Amidst the controversy of Aaron Hernandez, injuries, and losing some key players, the New England Patriots have plenty of reasons not to show up this season, but veteran quarterback Tom Brady won’t allow his team to lose focus. After a few preseason games the New England Patriots have proven to be a true contender this season. Many fans were worried when it was reported that Tom Brady injured his knee, but with the amount of spotlight on this quarterback, it was completely blown out of proportion and Brady proved he was fine in practice looking great only days later. This is a true team of fighters that you can expect not to back down.
New England Patriots Offense
The Patriot offense is looking great this season despite losing some offensive greats. Texas Tech alum Danny Amendola is making great strides for this team, putting up numbers that look very similar to another Texas Tech alum and now Denver Bronco’s wide receiver, Wes Welker. Fans can expect the running game of this team to be their true weapon, especially with Steven Ridley and Shane Vereen picking up for what Danny Woodhead left behind. In 2012, the Patriots led the league in rushing first downs and continue to prove their rushing game is going nowhere. Not to mention, the offensive line is stacked. This gives Brady and the rookie receivers ample time to get something going in the passing game. From what has been seen so far, the Patriots offense is still more than capable of matching the 34 touchdown passes they completed last season.
New England Patriots Defense
The Patriot defense has never been one to make teams quiver, but when looking at the numbers there’s no way to deny that they are a solid unit. The Patriot defense has continued to hold teams to 4 yards per carry or less, which usually shits down any running game their opponents have, forcing them to throw. With this type of ability, the Patriots are able to create opportunities for interceptions and turnovers. Did I mention they had 22 sacks last year? This type of defense has guaranteed Brady at least two extra series per game, making his offense step up and do what they do best. The biggest asset to watch for in this unit is defensive end, Chandler Jones, who has continued to be a huge threat to the passer, making him a single handed turnover machine. Expect this defense to above and beyond what they have to do to get their offense on the field, and keep them there.
There isn’t much convincing necessary when it comes to convincing someone that the New England Patriots, despite controversy and injury, have and will continue to prove to be a top defender in the league. With the teams that they are looking to go up against in the AFC East, there’s no way to expect them to keep up with this team, and the Patriots are sure to take that championship and easily make it into the playoffs. Don’t fret with the bad hype swirling around certain players like Hernandez because you can rest easy that Tom Brady and his new weapons will continue to focus on the game and nothing else.
