What to Watch For: Patriots at Eagles

Friday, August 09, 2013

John Rooke, GoLocalWorcester Sports Editor

I hate the pre-season.

Ok, that's not entirely accurate. I enjoy football, and enjoy covering football. But let's say I'm not the only one who dislikes the "exhibition" part of the NFL schedule, would that be fair?

It's not for me, or you, or anyone else, really...to like or dislike. As Bill Belichick is fond of saying, "it is what it is." Even if that means the majority of the players who see the most game time Friday night in Philadelphia (and in the other three pre-season games, for that matter) won't be around for the games that count starting in September. The pre-season is for the coaching staff to evaluate a select few players, so they can set their rosters for the long haul. Most of the roster spots have been decided...these games will really matter for a very few.

In this vein, here are a few areas that may be interesting enough for you (and I) to be watching as the games get underway. After all, at least it IS football.

Go Deep

For the little time that Tom Brady will probably play Friday night, you can expect him to begin working on his playing-field relationships with his new wide receivers. Danny Amendola, and rookies Aaron Dobson and Kenbrell Thompkins will get looks early, and it will be interesting to note who Brady targets during his time on the field. Timing, reliability, decision-making will all be a part of the learning process. So will talent, and all parties need to begin seeing who can catch the ball for the long haul.

Ground and Pound

In light of the current uncertainty with the passing game and the receiving end of Brady's targets, could the Patriots perhaps rely a little more on the ground game this season? Stevan Ridley did rush for almost 1300 yards last season, and another former 1000-yard NFL rusher in LeGarrette Blount could very well be an important piece to this puzzle. Reliability and durability are factors for the season-long haul in the backfield. Who gets the tough yards, who doesn't make mistakes, who compliments Brady's talents and makes defenders respect the New England offense will be interesting to watch.

Secondarily speaking

The Patriots know what they have up front on the defensive side of the ball. Ability and the makings of some pretty solid depth, barring injury of course. It's the secondary that has most - if not all - of the question marks going into the season. Adrian Wilson's addition at strong safety cannot be understated. He's a thumper in the Rodney Harrison-mold, something the team has lacked since #37's retirement. Who comes to play with him could make or break the defense. Interesting to note that former all-pro CB Devin McCourty has been getting time again at the corner in addition to his new free safety position. Is this because of better safety play overall, or because the team anticipates a need with Alfonzo Dennard's status (legal troubles) still up in the air?

Ah, yes. That's why they play the games, to find this stuff out. Even if it is the pre-season.