Tom Brady's Record-Setting Performance Leads New England to Week 1 Win

The NFL's top offense from 2010 did not disappoint on Monday night. Quarterback Tom Brady set a Patriots' franchise record with 517 passing yards and New England overpowered the Miami Dolphins, 38-24.

Opposing QB Chad Henne stuffed the stat sheet, too, with 475 total yards (416 passing) and three touchdowns. However, there's no reason for New England to stress over its defense in the post-game analysis.

Explosive Dolphins running back Reggie Bush was limited to 94 yards despite carrying 20 times; nearly half of Miami's total offense came in the 4th quarter with New England already ahead by two or three possessions; and the Patriots never surrendered "the big play" (the Dolphins' longest completion went for 31 yards).

Brady's numbers were skewed by two unusual plays.

One came in early in the 3rd quarter when Miami defensive end Jared Odrick came away with an interception on a pass intended for Julian Edelman. The ball was originally swatted by a cornerback who stepped in front of the throw. The intent was obviously to bat the ball towards the turf for an ordinary incompletion, but the impact—luckily for Miami—sent it high into the air. It was Brady's first regular season pick since Week 5 in 2010, nearly a year ago.d

The other unlikely sequence was a 99-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Wes Welker. Mid-way through the 4th quarter and trailing 31-17, the Dolphins failed to convert on 4th-and-Goal from inside the Patriots' 1-yard line.

After the turnover on downs, Miami blitzed, expecting New England to rush for some breathing room. They guessed wrong. Brady hooked up with the streaking Welker—who was in single coverage—and one stiff-arm later, they had tied an NFL record for longest play from scrimmage.

Putting both events aside, the margin of victory would still be 14 points (considering that the interception led to a Miami score three plays later).

Chad Ochocinco (one catch, 14 yards) and Albert Haynesworth (two tackles) had quiet debuts for New England. But then, that was one reason both elected to come play for the Patriots. Here, they don't have to be "the Man" every week. They can contribute among a stellar supporting cast.

So, one week of riveting pro football is behind us. There were upsets, injuries, incredible accomplishments, and all I can do is wonder: at the moment, which is the best team in the National Football League?

Feel free to weigh in.