1702 replies to this topic

[Phil Nevin 23]

9 guys listed as Questionable at this point in the season following a Bye week seems like a lot.

Imagine if we come to gametime tomorrow and both Rodney and Hobbs are inactive? Yikes.

How about Kaczur and Neal? I think this must be a Belichick ruse--either that our they've killed each other in practice the last 2 weeks.

[nazz45]

How many catches are Welker+Watson going to have over the middle? I say 14 at least, if Watson isn't a major pussy.

Thought this was interesting from McDaniels:

Question: When teams have gone three-wide or four-wide against Jacksonville, how have they generally defended it? Do they play much six defensive backs, or it is pretty standard with just the one, Terry Cousin, coming on?

McDaniels: Yeah, I would say that they’re a nickel team, with Terry Cousin coming in. They’ve shown some dime - not a whole lot of it, but I would say this: not a lot of teams have really put that four-wide or anything like that out there against them ... It wouldn’t surprise me to see them put the dime in the game, but if it just was nickel than that’s probably what they’ve played the most of and what they feel most comfortable in, and that’s what we would anticipate [them] putting out there against us when we’re in any kind of three-receiver grouping.

Jags were mostly in the nickel against the Steelers during the second half but those were mostly against 3-wide sets. I can guarantee that won't be the case against the Patriots where they are likely to see 5-wide at times.

The Patriots offensive strategy against Philly came under a lot of criticism, but I could see them opening up in the controlled, no-huddle 4-wide offense with Faulk in the backfield. Jags obviously prefer keeping a linebacker over their sixth DB (whether it's the ancient Aaron Glenn or Scott "Not Duane" Starks), but that's an advantage for a deep receiving corps. Or the Jags make an adjustment to a less comfortable sub package. Either way, seems like a win-win.

Regardless, I do expect a lot of no-huddle from NE if for no other reason than to keep the Jags from rotating along the defensive line while possibly making Grady Jackson vomit in the process. Also something we saw against the Giants -- splitting Evans and Maroney wide to create a mismatch versus run stopping personnel -- could be used some more.

Reiss adds:

When considering how the Patriots' offense might attack the Jaguars' defense in tonight's divisional playoff game, a look back at last year's Dec. 24 regular season game between the teams could help.

Here is a look at the positional groupings utilized by the Patriots in that game:

3 WR/1 TE/1 RB -- 30 of 67 snaps
4 WR/1 RB -- 14 of 67
4 WR/1 TE -- 7 of 67
2 WR/2 TE/1 RB -- 6 of 67
3 TE/1 FB/1 RB -- 4 of 67
5 WR -- 3 of 67
1 WR/2 TE/1 FB/1 RB -- 2 of 67
2 WR/1 TE/1 FB/1 RB -- 1 of 67

ANALYSIS: The Patriots flooded the field with pass-catchers in the game, as 54 of 67 snaps came with either 3, 4, or 5 receivers. This was also a game where the Patriots lined up receivers in the backfield at times. So as kickoff nears tonight, it will be interesting to see if the team adopts a similar receiver-based approach. Based on the team's overall approach this season, that would appear likely.

Brady finished that game 28 out of 39 for 249 yards with 1 TD and no INT. Brady ran/scrambled 7 times for 34 yards (with one rush ending on a borderline spear by Clint Ingram), not counting three kneel downs at game's end. One sack allowed on 47 drop-backs. And that was with the likes of Reche Caldwell, Kelvin Kight and Bam Childress at WR.

How about Kaczur and Neal? I think this must be a Belichick ruse--either that our they've killed each other in practice the last 2 weeks.

I don't think Kaczur's injury is serious; I'd be surprised if he didn't start.

Neal's issue is his shoulder, which has already been surgically repaired twice (most recently in '03). The fact that he wasn't IR'd after missing the final four games is a good sign, I guess, as they must feel there's a chance he can play through it but chose to hold him out until the playoffs.

Edited by nazz45, 12 January 2008 - 09:58 AM.

[John Dopson]

McD and BB did say the Jags almost never vary from nickel. But when the Pats go 5 wide, it's usually with 4 WR and a RB flexed out into the slot. They very rarely come out with 5 actual WR's on the field. I wonder if the 4WR with a RB motioned out will be a way today for the Pats to ensure the Jags don't adjust out of their nickel formations.


Also, with a depleted/injured D line the no-huddle could be a nice changeup used 2-3x today.

[SoxScout]

We can also screen them to death. Nothing pisses off the Dline more that that.... however McDaniels has been unbelievably resistant to calling screens other than in the 4th quarter.

[Andrew]

I don't even remember the last time the Pats lost at home in the playoffs.

I'm pretty sure it was about a decade before I was born. So, yeah, I don't remember either.

[Nator]

Is it 8:00 yet?

[jsinger121]

1978 is the only playoff home loss in Patriots history and that was to the Oilers.

[Andrew]

1978 is the only playoff home loss in Patriots history and that was to the Oilers.

Well, you have to actually do well in the regular season in order to earn those playoff home games.

[Seven Costanza]

WIN

[Beomoose]

After watching Del Rio on the sidelines last week, all I can think of is:

Belichick=


Del Rio =



WIN

[PedroKsBambino]

We can also screen them to death. Nothing pisses off the Dline more that that.... however McDaniels has been unbelievably resistant to calling screens other than in the 4th quarter.

This is what I'm hoping to see---I could imagine a couple big screen plays, perhaps one to Maroney on a first-down call and perhaps one to Watson on a third-and-long.

[Mystic Merlin]

I would love to see Watson get some looks in the passing game. He is naturally overlooked because of Moss and Welker, but he is very athletic and, when he isn't dropping passes, can cause serious matchup problems for defenses.

Granted, the drops (and injuries) have been a huge factor in his inconsistency and tendency to get in BB's doghouse, but I think he could definitely be an overlooked player in an offense like this.

I also think getting Neal and Kaczur back will bolster the right side of the o-line - those five guys (Light, Mankins, Koppen, Neal, Kaczur) play together as well as any o-line in the league.

[Seagull]

This is what I'm hoping to see---I could imagine a couple big screen plays, perhaps one to Maroney on a first-down call and perhaps one to Watson on a third-and-long.

I'm hoping to see them try Stallworth in the screen game. It seems to me that he's become a bit of a forgotten figure recently, but he's a great runner in space.

[staz]

I'm hoping to see them try Stallworth in the screen game. It seems to me that he's become a bit of a forgotten figure recently, but he's a great runner in space.

Yes. I'm looking for a big game from The Mopheads, Stallworth and Maroney.

FWIW, with a win tonight, the Pats will clinch the title of "AFC Finalist".

[Deathofthebambino]

Time to head down to the Blade. Confident, but not over-confident. I've seen too many games play out completely opposite of what I expected. It's the NFL, and that's part of what makes it the best game on Earth. A long day of eating and drinking and hanging with friends. I'll be in Section 123, row 21, seat 1. If anyone wants to meet up, I'm always behind our section, where the smoking section is near McDonalds (opposite the lighthouse) at halftime.

Go PATS.

[Seagull]

Yes. I'm looking for a big game from The Mopheads, Stallworth and Maroney.

Agreed, big games from "The Mopheads" would be fabulous, and to them I'd add Asante. One touchdown from each of the three and we'll be well on our way.

[Jack Sox]

I'm expecting plenty of screens tonight and also one big trick play that goes for major yardage.

34-10, Pats.

[parliamentlights]

Reppin standing room only.

Just win, baby.

Where's DCHONG when you need him?

[hescores21]

I can't see the Pats NOT scoring at least 40 on this team! If they dare take Moss out by double and triple covering him, then Welker and Stalls will have a field day like in Dallas. As long as the O-line is healthy and plays to their high level, TB will put up BIG numbers. TB does not have to force anything to Randy since they have their records already! Back to matriculating the ball down the field by spreading it around to 10 different players. 48-20. WIN!!

Anyone have an up to the minute weather picture? Wind??

[njingles3]

Pats 35-21.

[amarshal2]

I think this one might end up on the offense. If they execute like they can then their fate will always be in their hands. Score early, score often.

Go Pats!

[Old Fart Tree]

I'm so jacked up about this game, I can't wait. I'm having like 35 people over. It's gonna be a zoo. I'm starting to lean towards laying the points, but I feel like the money line is like stealing dollars. It's -750, so it's not even worth the bet, but i just don't see any way the pats lose this game.

Let me be 100% honest - I am shit-scared about the playoffs.

Totally agreed, but not about this game. I am 100% shit-scared of the Colts, but not of the Paper Jaguars.

[RedOctober3829]

Ribs, burgers, hot dogs, broccoli cheese soup, and lots of beer. I'm ready and raring to go!!!! 2 weeks between games has killed me.

WIN

[jsinger121]

Inactive players for the Patriots tonight:

QB Matt Gutierrez (3rd quarterback)
S Eugene Wilson
DB Antwain Spann
RB Kyle Eckel
S Ray Ventrone
OL Wesley Britt
OL Billy Yates
DL Rashad Moore

[SoxScout]

wow, having a healthy team is a beautiful thing.

[NickEsasky]

Just win baby.

[Mystic Merlin]

One game season now, fellas.

BB and Brady, lead us to victory.

Thoughts and prayers, et al.

[jsinger121]

Inactive players for the Jaguars tonight:

WR Charles Sharon
RB LaBrandon Toefield
CB Aaron Glenn
S Lamont Thompson
LB Shantee Orr
LB Mike Peterson
G Uche Nwaneri
OL Tutan Reyes

[WalletTrack]

"Kids...kids did this..."

Patriots > Jaguars.

[jsinger121]

Troy Brown is active. I think that is the biggest surprise.

[Obscure Name]

Troy Brown is active. I think that is the biggest surprise.

He'll see some time at QB. That will really confuse the Jaguars.

[Mystic Merlin]

Troy Brown is active. I think that is the biggest surprise.

This is fanboyish, but nothing would please me more than seeing Troy make a big play or two in the return game. It probably won't happen, but I would enjoy that immensely.

[shawnrbu]

Troy Brown is active. I think that is the biggest surprise.

Waste of a roster spot, imo. But, at least it's not in place of Chad Jackson.

[BigSoxFan]

Waste of a roster spot, imo. But, at least it's not in place of Chad Jackson.

Looking like all hands on deck at WR. Brown can still work the slot so if Welker gets hurt, it makes sense to have an experienced backup ready since the slot WR is pretty much Brady's safety blanket.

[Maalox]

I really like the fact that Bill Cowher smiles on the kead-in spot. Doesn't bother to do that fake "football is crucially important" serious look.

[Mystic Merlin]

It's always interesting to see Phil's choice of ties each week.

EDIT - BTW, I cannot wait for tonight's Philosophy

Edited by Mystic Merlin, 12 January 2008 - 07:35 PM.

[Lars The Wanderer]

Time to start pounding beers. The Pats are probably the best football team ever, but watching them makes me nervous.

[Euclis20]

Time to start pounding beers. The Pats are probably the best football team ever, but watching them makes me nervous.

How so? They had just 4 close games all season.

[shawnrbu]

First QB Communication problems reference at 7:45 tonight.

[CaptainLaddie]

My stomach is churning. Just want this fucking game to start.

[LESDL]

They just mentioned the possibility of adding a 17th game in the near future.

[Lars The Wanderer]

How so? They had just 4 close games all season.

Laddie describes it better than I do.

[Maalox]

I would fuck her.

[CaptainLaddie]

I know that the Pats are heavily favored and I know I shouldn't worry, but fuck that. It's a playoff game.

[Jnai]

I can't wait to see the game plan for this one. I'm like a heroin addict over here. I need my Patriots fix already.

God, do I hope they win. I love this sport, and I love this team.

[CaptainLaddie]

That's a bad shot of Sam Ryan, too. She's like a more mature-looking Erin Andrews.

[neil]

This game should be the titty bombers.

Rooting for the Pats obviously, but this should be a great game either way.

[LESDL]

I would fuck her.

Definitely. She's sweet.

[5belongstoGeorge]

Every time I see Marino I think of the time he threw an INT. Marino let up and the guy ran it back right past him all the way. It doesn't matter if they didn't pay him to make tackles... it was a punk move.

edit:
If that is Sam's natural hair color it adds 2.5 points to her hotness score.

Edited by 5belongstoGeorge, 12 January 2008 - 07:57 PM.