NFL Two-A-Days: New England Patriots Season Preview

Welcome to day three of this series, NFL Two-A-Days. This is an idea I picked up from ESPN's Mike & Mike, four questions regarding the team followed by a record prediction.  I will be previewing two teams every week day until August 23, just like Mike & Mike on there four hour radio show. Today, I'll start with the New England Patriots.

Ravens, Bears, Dolphins and Falcons previews can be found here .

1. Will Tom Brady throw at least 30 touchdowns this season?

Last year he threw 28 and that was coming off his knee injury. I think he'll get around 30-35 touchdowns.

2. Will Wes Welker be healthy enough to catch 100 passes for a fourth straight season?

He played in only 14 games last year and still got 100 catches. I think he'll reach 100 catches, as long as he stays off the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list to start the season.

3. Is this the year the Patriots transitioning defense finally comes together?  

It will improve, I'm not sure they'll be what the old group was, at least not for now. Many young players take a few years to develop, and in this case it's basically an entire defense. It will take time. They will steadily improve throughout 2010.

4. Are the Patriots still the team to beat in the AFC East?

It's tough to say they aren't since they have been on top for so long, but I think the Jets are a little bit better. The Patriots are going to have a target on thier backs, because of the past sucess. I'm not one to discount Bill Belicheck and Brady. I think they'll make the playoffs as a wildcard team.

5. Record?

10-6, second in the AFC East.

Here is a link to Mike & Mike's page on ESPN.com, you can check out their opinion on the Patriots. Later today, a Pittsburgh Steelers preview.