Figured the strategy piece should be stripped out from the other thread, which will likely continue to focus on the drama of Brady's departure. As for the game itself, I think it's going to be fascinating to see how Belichick attempts to defend this Tampa offense and, specifically, Brady himself. This is a team that doesn't really have a great running game but they have 3 really good WRs and a rejuvenated Gronk/healthy Howard at TE. We've missed Gilmore so far this year but we'll REALLY miss him on SNF. Belichick knows better than anyone that you need to pressure Brady to have any chance against him. The Rams did a pretty good job of it and got the W but we don't have Aaron Donald and, quite frankly, I don't think we have the horses here. I envision multiple drives of Brady picking us apart although I could see the dynamic of the return and wanting to make a big statement leading him to take a few more chances than he normally would and perhaps we can pick off a few deep ones.
I think the key here is to dial up the pressure. A vanilla defense won't work so I really hope BB gets really exotic with his looks although there really isn't much he can throw at Brady that he hasn't ever seen. Sunday's game will simply come down to whether or not the Pats can physically hold up and perhaps get some turnover/fumble luck. The offense also needs to score and I've seen nothing to-date to suggest they're up to the task on that front.
In any event, discuss away.
I think the key here is to dial up the pressure. A vanilla defense won't work so I really hope BB gets really exotic with his looks although there really isn't much he can throw at Brady that he hasn't ever seen. Sunday's game will simply come down to whether or not the Pats can physically hold up and perhaps get some turnover/fumble luck. The offense also needs to score and I've seen nothing to-date to suggest they're up to the task on that front.
In any event, discuss away.
