Especially when every opponent this year will try to their best to get pressure on Brady the way the Giants did, though none of them have the talent of the G-Men’s defensive line.
So, the play of the current makeshift line, especially in the early offensive series, will be something to watch. Billy Yates and Wesley Britt need to show they are capable starters or at the very least could fill in until everyone gets healthy...if everyone gets healthy, Belichick willing.
5. Free Agents Fitting In?
Fernando Bryant has thus far looked capable of taking Asante Samuel’s place at cornerback, now we’ll see if that translates into the game. Linebacker Victor Hobson has been fairly quiet and has been passed by Mayo on the depth chart according to some observers.
But he’s an NFL vet, and we know he can play at this level. It will be interesting to see his play compared to Mayo once the action is live.
Other Individuals to Keep an Eye On
Matthew Slater—universally described as an "explosive" kick returner, he’ll need to show that explosion Thursday night if he’s going to make the team.
Chad Jackson—of course "The Chad" makes this list; Patriots fans are going to watching him like a hawk all preseason. He’ll take some punt returns, but it will hard to judge his performance at receiver with the backup quarterbacks throwing him the ball. Still, he needs to do something to show he's ready to contribute this year.
Sammy Morris & LaMont Jordan—these two could be fighting for a job, though I tend to believe both will make the roster. Regardless, both will need good games to ensure that.
Antwan Spann—he’s been having a great camp, but that needs to translate into the game if he’s got a shot at making the roster.
Tank Williams—Belichick will most likely keep the newly-installed defensive wrinkles under wraps for the preseason, but it will be interesting to see if Tank takes any reps at linebacker like he has been doing in practice.
We’ll be back this weekend with a full analysis of how all this mess plays out on Thursday night. Until then, Go Pats!
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