Preseason Hope / Pats 30 : Cards 3
I didn’t get to see the game, but based on the score, the stats and the reports the Patriots are back:
Almost an even balance of run and pass plays. Five running backs each with over 20 yards (plus Cassel for 31 more). Fifteen players caught passes. Long drives. Two interceptions. Both quarterbacks throwing at about 75% efficiency.
As good as the offensive show was, it’s the defense which is the better news. It was talked up big this week that Arizona’s offense would be a tough test for what was looking like a weak secondary. It looks like things are coming together, though. And that’s without Harrison and Bruschi … Seau was watching from the sidelines, expect him in next week.
And, as for the offense, as much as everyone wants Deion Branch back, the Patriots are getting it done using what they have. The top receivers for the night was a even blend of TE’s, RB’s, and WR’s … oh, and cornerback Willie Andrews did a “Reverse Troy Brown” and played some offense – one catch for 17 yards. If any team can adapt to losing star players – for whatever reasons – its this one. And no defense can double-cover every player the Patriots have that’s capable of catching passes – because that’s just just about everyone.
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