Mike Reiss

  (11:59 AM)

Good afternoon. Just back from the Patriots locker room. Looking forward to the next hour. Then Tedy Bruschi takes over at 1 p.m., followed by D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Mike Reiss

  (12:00 PM)

Quiet day here at Gillette. The one news nugget to pass along is that it looks like C/G Ryan Wendell, who was waived on Tuesday, was back in the locker room. Looks like he's landed on the practice squad.

Tom (DC)

Where was Kevin Faulk last week as the thrid down guy helping to fill Welker's spot?

Mike Reiss

  (12:01 PM)

Tom, because they went no huddle, there was no freely substituting. So they basically went with one running back for each series. Faulk played in 4 of 11 series, the final two of each half. I think it was dictated by their no-huddle, up-tempo offensive approach, which limited substitutions.

Jim (Boston)

What's your prediction for Brady this week -- bounce back or more struggles?

Mike Reiss

  (12:02 PM)

Bounce back, Jim. I think the matchup is a favorable one for Brady to get back on track.

Sharon (Worcester MA)

Do you think that Scott Pioli's departure has been a factor in any of the personnel issues the Pats are dealing with?

Mike Reiss

  (12:04 PM)

I don't see Pioli's departure being a huge factor, Sharon. Maybe the one thing that I would mention is that I sensed he could be a good counter to Belichick on certain decisions, maybe talking him out of them. For example, let's say Belichick wanted to release Kevin O'Connell. My feeling is that Pioli might have presented to him the other side "Do we really want to do this? What if it comes back to haunt us with a team like the Jets getting him?" I think the two had a good chemistry on stuff like that.

Lowercaseg (Atlanta, GA)

Mike, what are your thoughts on the Pats using Welker and Edelman on the field at the same time (when their both healthly, of course)? Does having both on the field help Brady with the blitz pressure?

Mike Reiss

  (12:06 PM)

Sure, lowercaseg. I don't think Edelman is strictly a slot guy. We've seen him do more. At the same time, I don't think the Moss/Welker/Edelman combination would help against the blitz any more than the Moss/Welker/Galloway combination.

Derek (Lake Havasu City, az)

I'd like to see the Patriots get back to running the ball. Will they?

Mike Reiss

  (12:07 PM)

I think they will, Derek, as a big part of their skewed stats (101 dropbacks, 43 rushes) has been playing from behind. I think they could have run it a few more times against the Jets, but my feeling is that it's overstating it to say they abandoned the run. Also, I see those WR screens as glorified run plays, which skew the stats.

Mike Reiss

  (12:08 PM)

One follow-up Derek. The Falcons have surrendered 240 rushing yards on 47 carries (5.1 avg.) against Miami and Carolina, two of the better running teams. The stats indicate there could be opportunities to gain yardage on the ground.

Har (Vancouver, BC)

Hi Mike: The Patriots couldn't stop the Jets Blitz last week, do you think they will make the correct adjustments and be able to stop the Falcons Blitz on Sunday??

Mike Reiss

  (12:10 PM)

I learned this from talking to Tedy Bruschi for a piece that will be posted on ESPNBoston.com today -- part of what made the Jets blitz so effective was the play of CB Darrelle Revis and S Kerry Rhodes. The Falcons don't have the same personnel in the defensive backfield, so it will limit what they can do blitz wise. I think that will help the Patriots against the blitz Sunday.

CKJAKE (Boston)

What do you see as the biggest challange for the Pats this week against Atlanta? Getting offense on track or stopping the Falcons on Defense?

Mike Reiss

  (12:11 PM)

I'd say the biggest challenge, based on the matchup, will be Patriots defense vs. Falcons offense. The reason I say that is that I think the Falcons have the edge.

Jesse (Sandwich (Cape Cod))

Defense for the Pats this year has looked very vanilla, Do you think this is due to the fact we are very low on linebackers and that we have a ton of young guys?

Mike Reiss

  (12:12 PM)

I agree Jesse. The defense against the Jets seemed simplified. Rush four most of the time, drop seven into coverage. I believe the idea was to keep it simple with the shortage at linebacker.

Bill (Tewksbury)

What linebacker has the make up to be the next Bruschi, where is the sacks going to come from?

Mike Reiss

  (12:13 PM)

I'd be curious to hear Tedy's thoughts on this one, Bill. I don't think there will be another Bruschi. He's too unique. I think Gary Guyton has the potential to be a solid starter.

scott (worcester)

Mike- Now that we are coming to the end of the decade I have been thinking about the philosphy of team building for the pats over the last 10 years. 2000-2005 there seemed to be much more emphasis on defense with tough, physical, aggressive players. From 2006 to 2009 there seemed to be more of an emphasis on offensive players and the team has seemed to soften. I do not see the pats as tough as they once were. Also all this trading down and trading for future picks is frustrating me. While teams like the Jets are moving up in the draft (darelle revis), signing quality free agents (bart scott/kris jenkins) we trade down or trade away assets for years down the rode. (ie. vrabel/seymour w/woods or pryor as the replacements-pat chung can not even get on the field). Sorry to give you so much to digest but this is really bothersome to me. Your thoughts on the evolution of the team since you have been there the whole time. Thanks

Mike Reiss

  (12:15 PM)

Thanks for the thoughts Scott. I had some similar thoughts recently, wondering if the idea of pushing chips to the future has sacrificed too much in the present. I was also thinking of the Jets and that 2007 draft -- they didn't just move up for Revis, but also for David Harris in the second round. Hard to disagree on the toughness. When you can't convert a fourth-and-1 on the ground in the opener, and a third-and-1 against the Jets, what does that say about the current makeup of the team? I think they have it in them, they just have to bring it out when it counts.

Jason Anderson (Dallas, TX)

One of the things I came away with from the Jets game was the lack of the screen pass game against the Jets blitz. Kevin Faulk should have become a bigger part of the offense in the second half. Why didn't the Pats go in this direction when they didn't have Wes Welker to look to in those short, quick routes? Could this be attributed to a not making half-time adjustments like we are accustomed to, and how does the recent shake-up at offensive coordinator play into making those half-time adjustments?

Mike Reiss

  (12:18 PM)

I asked Bill Belichick this question on Tuesday. He explained the lack of screen passes to Faulk was a result of the Jets' man-to-man blitzes. Here is what he said: "There is not a lot of space a lot of times between your backs and your tight ends and the guys who are covering them. One of the keys on the screen is to be able to get it started and get the ball to the back or tight end, or whoever you're screening to, with a blocker in front of them. As much man coverage as they play, it's kind of feast or famine. If you could block a guy who is covering that player, you might have a lot of space. But if you can't get him -- and they're pretty hard to get because they're so close and a lot of times it's hard for the linemen to even know who that player is that has him -- you don't have much. The Jets haven't been screened a whole lot this year. I'm not saying you can't do it, but there is definitely some downside to it. It's a little tricky to screen a team like that when you don't really know who is covering the guy you're screening to and that's the guy you really have to get."

Mike Reiss

  (12:18 PM)

I asked Bill Belichick this question on Tuesday. He explained the lack of screen passes to Faulk was a result of the Jets' man-to-man blitzes. Here is what he said: "There is not a lot of space a lot of times between your backs and your tight ends and the guys who are covering them. One of the keys on the screen is to be able to get it started and get the ball to the back or tight end, or whoever you're screening to, with a blocker in front of them. As much man coverage as they play, it's kind of feast or famine. If you could block a guy who is covering that player, you might have a lot of space. But if you can't get him -- and they're pretty hard to get because they're so close and a lot of times it's hard for the linemen to even know who that player is that has him -- you don't have much. The Jets haven't been screened a whole lot this year. I'm not saying you can't do it, but there is definitely some downside to it. It's a little tricky to screen a team like that when you don't really know who is covering the guy you're screening to and that's the guy you really have to get."

Josh Keezer (Madison WI)

Why haven't we seen more of Derrick Burgess playing off the edge to get some pass rush in obvious passing down situations? He was a big offseason acquisition and with the Patriots lack of depth at linebacker I would think he would get some more time.

Mike Reiss

  (12:21 PM)

Josh, hope all is well in Madison. Ian's Pizza still the hot spot? Burgess played just 17 snaps last week and was underwhelming. The week before, he was on about 38 snaps, and I didn't see too much pressure either. He's had his chances, just hasn't delivered yet. I think part of his limited time last week is that the Patriots felt they needed to be more stout against the run up front with the 4-2-5 personnel they were using.

Chris (Boston)

Hey Mike. Any update on Meriweather's ankle? We can't loss him when going up against TG and White.

Mike Reiss

  (12:22 PM)

Chris, Meriweather was limited in practice Wednesday, but I don't have anything other than that. I thought his missed tackle in the third quarter against the Jets was one of the downers of the game.

Ryan (Orlando)

Mike,Any thoughts on Fred Taylor becoming more of the featured back with Maroney the backup? Do you have a view on why Maroney can't show any consistency since being drafted?One other observation for those worried about Brady - in 2008 I recall Peyton Manning struggling to start the year after having offseason knee surgery. Brady will be fine.

Mike Reiss

  (12:24 PM)

Ryan, I think we'll continue to see a rotation, although maybe Taylor gets first crack over Maroney this time around. The idea would be to keep them both fresh. As for Maroney and consistency, I don't have a good answer. It seems to me that he hesitates at time at the line of scrimmage, or doesn't have the vision to see things develop. At the same time, I thought his effort last week wasn't all bad. He was solid in blitz pickup and still shows explosion. Just needs to avoid those negative runs.

Jeremy Levenson (Worcester)

who will be the primary defender on tony gonzalez?? will it be a LB or a DB?

Mike Reiss

  (12:25 PM)

Probably both. My hunch is that Adalius Thomas jams him at the line, with help over the top.

Evan (Boston)

Trent Dilfer was interviewed about the Patriots offense, stating that he believed the offense play calling has been the problem. I agree that they need to run the ball more, as run more screens and draws, as well as stretch the field to Moss or Galloway. However, I think that is only a small part of the problem, with the real cause for concern being Brady not stepping into throws. Which do you think is the bigger problem? Also will Endleman get the start along side Moss and Welker Next week after his performance last week?

Mike Reiss

  (12:27 PM)

I could quibble with a few play-calls, but I don't think that has been the primary problem. Brady's mechanics and comfort level would top my list. I'd also point out that Brady checks in and out of plays at the line of scrimmage, so sometimes the play that gets called in isn't run because of Brady's decision. Or sometimes two plays are called and Brady picks one based on the defense's look. It's just too simplistic, in my view, to blame it on play-calling. I'd lean toward execution more than play-calling.

Steve (Augusta GA)

What sort of counter is there to the all out blitzing that teams have used against the Patriots spread offense? Do you think the answers are more based on schemes? More running? Tom Brady hitting his short/hot routs? It seems like to O does not have an answer to the heavy blitzing defenses despite Pro Bowl quality offensive linemen.

Mike Reiss

  (12:30 PM)

Against certain teams, I think a screen can be an effective counter to the blitz. But more than anything, I'd say it's just executing fundamentals better. I didn't think the Jets simply overwhelmed the Patriots. I saw opportunities for big plays -- like the Julian Edelman bobble in the second quarter, or the Tom Brady overthrow of Edelman in the second quarter. Those could have been 14 points right there. Or recovering the Leon Washington fumble and then getting two holding penalties for a drive that went 4 plays for minus-10 yards.

David (North Attleboro,Ma)

For a long time now the it seem the only 3rd or 4th and one running play that is successful is the QB sneak. Is it just the best play or is there a bigger problem?

Mike Reiss

  (12:31 PM)

Agree, David. I'd rather see a sneak then the slow-developing run plays we've seen on fourth-and-1 and third-and-1 the last two weeks. I think situations like those reflect a team's toughness. Patriots need to show more of it.

Ace (Portsmouth, NH)

I have yet to see any significant production from WR Galloway as yet. I understand it may be timing and such but at what point do you say enough is enough? I have been impressed with Terrence Nunn in camp and in preseason. Why not move him up from the practice squad and give him a go. I have seen him make the hard grabs and he gets yards after catch. This would put more pressure on Galloway to be productive. I think Nunn is another jewel like JE. With the Bill plan, is this an option?

Mike Reiss

  (12:34 PM)

I'd give it more time, Ace. This is a complicated offense and while it's clear Galloway and Brady are not always on the same page, I think it's too early to pull the plug. Projecting Nunn into that role is a major, major leap that I don't think would be a smart decision at this time.

Pat (Northborough)

Do you think the Pats regret taking Meriweather instead a book end tackle in '07? Meriweather doesn't seem to be the impact player I expected and neither a sure tackler or ball-hawk. Maybe a top tier LT with the 1st round pick in '11?

Mike Reiss

  (12:37 PM)

Looking back, Pat, I think that might be a decision that they could second-guess. I'm not writing Meriweather off because he's made some plays, but that missed tackle against the Jets was something that just can't happen, and a play you wouldn't expect from a first-round pick. I look back on the chance to draft LB Jon Beason at No. 24 and think that would have been a slam dunk. I think Vollmer could be the LT of the future.

GoPats (USA)

Can you tell us more about the scout teams role in preparing each week? And do you think safety Bret Lockett is a keeper on the roster for the rest of the year? Thank you.

Mike Reiss

  (12:38 PM)

The scout team gives the starters the best "look" possible of what they'll see on Sunday. Pepper Johnson coaches the defensive scout team. On Lockett, I would think he could be in jeopardy when Matthew Slater returns from his elbow injury.

steve (lakeport,ca)

Should have the Pats traded Seymour, knowing their defense was young and inexperienced?

Mike Reiss

  (12:39 PM)

Fair question, Steve. At the time, I said the long-term gain was a slam dunk but the question was what did they sacrifice in the short term? That answer is still coming into focus. I'm curious which defenders will step up and make a play in critical situations. Seymour was always a top option.

alex (rome,ny)

Mike, do you think it is a good idea to go 4wr with edelman,wes,galloway,moss? If Edelman does become legit i think it could be pretty threatening with all these weapons

Mike Reiss

  (12:41 PM)

The challenge with that, Alex, is what you give up protection wise. That leaves the linemen in a potentially compromising spot, with no help on the edges. If the coaching staff thinks it can protect, then I like the idea of the four-receiver set. That's a big "if".

Mike (Ohio)

Wouldn't you agree that Brady is probably going to have a 2008 Peyton Manning type season? That is, off to a slow start due to the knee but then better and better as it goes?

Mike Reiss

  (12:42 PM)

That makes sense to me, Mike. I think I personally had too high expectations for Brady, thinking that he could just recapture his 2007 form right off the bat. That overlooks how challenging this game is, and how tough it is to play quarterback, especially in this system.

Will (Boston)

Milke, what does it mean when an analyst refers to a receiver's ability to "get in and out of his breaks"?

Mike Reiss

  (12:43 PM)

Welker is a great example of this, Will. It's when you change directions in your route, or cut your route off. Deion Branch was one of the best I've ever seen at this, along with Terry Glenn. Just very smooth as they change direction. Bethel Johnson was a straight-line speed receiver, but when it came to "feeling" the routes and changing direction, he slowed down considerably.

Dave (RI)

Mike.. Tom Brady has 100 attempts in two games.. why dont they run the ball??? We have 5 backs!

Mike Reiss

  (12:43 PM)

I think they could run a bit more, Dave, but two factors have led to those numbers in my view: 1) Playing from behind; 2) Wide receiver screens are glorified run plays.

John D. (CT)

Mike - Do you think Brandon Tate will come off the PUP list by Week 6 and start playing? Or do you see him going to IR?

Mike Reiss

  (12:44 PM)

Just a hunch, John, but I think he'll play. I haven't seen anything to lead me to believe he would be IRd.

Art (DC and ATL)

The falcons have to pressure Brady or it will be a long day. can the pats O-line hold up to give Brady time to work the young ATL secondary?

Mike Reiss

  (12:45 PM)

I believe they can, Art. I didn't think the o-line was the issue against the Jets. I thought they played tough.

Ben Posnick (Camp Bauercrest)

Mike, do you believe Guyton can actually anchor the defense?

Mike Reiss

  (12:46 PM)

Hi Ben. Hope all is well on the Hillside. Ideally, you wouldn't want Guyton anchoring the defense. I think he can be a solid starter as he develops. I like his speed and toughness.

Clay (Hillsdale, MI)

Will Welker play this weekend, and if he does how much will the injury effect him.

Mike Reiss

  (12:47 PM)

That's the big question of the week, Clay. I'd say Welker will be another game-time decision. In terms of how much the knee will bother him, I don't know.

Jeremy Levenson (Worcester)

Do you think belicheik is losing his ability to draft players. his only real succesful draft pick in the last 4 years has been Jerod Mayo. Do you agree or disagree with this?

Mike Reiss

  (12:49 PM)

I don't think he's losing the ability, Jeremy, as I think you could look at anyone's draft record and find misses. But I'd agree that the 2006 draft, in particular, was disappointing. The 2007 draft was a bit different in that they picked up Moss/Welker, but in terms of the college acquisitions, it wasn't so hot either.

Vic (Colorado Springs)

It seems to me the Randy Moss has lost a step or two, what do you think?

Mike Reiss

  (12:50 PM)

I don't see that, Vic. I thought he looked pretty good in the opening week. Last week, I thought Revis had his number.

Shane (Los Angeles, CA)

Let's see how objective you can be:) From what I have seen from Atlanta and NE, I would not be surprised to see the Pats fall this Sunday and have their first losing record (1-2) since parachute pants were in style. Your thoughts?

Mike Reiss

  (12:52 PM)

I wouldn't be surprised either, Shane. Both offenses could put up a lot of points in this game. I think both have the advantage on the opposing defenses. With that in mind, I'm curious about the possibility of weather conditions altering the landscape, and then of course, the role of turnovers.

Walter (Boone, NC)

It is said that Tom Brady isn't feeling 100% with his mechanics, is his knee still bothering him or is he just not at game speed yet or is it another factor?

Mike Reiss

  (12:52 PM)

I don't think his knee is bothering him, Walter, as much as he's adjusting to game speed and the difficulty of running the Patriots offense.

Dave (RI)

I am very encouraged with the way the secondary has played.. esp Bodden, springs, merriweather and butler. Im am very concerned about the lack of the pass rush. Why cant we get a rush?

Mike Reiss

  (12:54 PM)

They only blitzed three times by my count last week, and that means the four-man rush isn't getting there. You look to players like Jarvis Green, Mike Wright, Tully Banta-Cain and Derrick Burgess in situations like those because that is supposed to be their forte. They need more from Burgess.

Mike Reiss

  (12:54 PM)

Going to go another 5 minutes, and then hand off to Tedy Bruschi.

Sully the Diehard Pats fan (Toano, VA)

Not sure if my last question made it through...hi, mike, wondering if you think that with the almost non-existent pass rush up to this point if we can say that BB has not been able to plug the bull rush void created with the trade of Seymour? Looks like Richard is tearing it up so far with the Raiders, you have to wonder if our D-Line was so heralded because of what Seymour provided in double teams...

Mike Reiss

  (12:56 PM)

No question, Sully, Seymour was a big part of the pass rush. I don't think his replacement, Jarvis Green, has provided as much of a push on a consistent basis. So I'd say the void hasn't been filled.

Brent (Minneapolis)

Mike, do you think Belichick is considering this a rebuilding year. Thus far I have not seen anything to convince me that the Pat's are a legitimate contender.

Mike Reiss

  (12:57 PM)

I don't think Belichick views it this way, Brent. I'd sagree on the contending thought, with this caveat -- you don't need to look like a contender now, just put up enough wins to get you to the playoffs, which is when you want to be playing your best (e.g. Arizona in 2008).

Jason (Ellicott City, MD)

Offensively, what is the main difference between the 09 and 07 pats?

Mike Reiss

  (12:57 PM)

An in-the-groove Brady.

Ian (Boston)

Mike: How would you evaluate the play of the CB's this year? It seems to me that Bodden, Springs and Wilhite (and a little Butler) have done a tremendous job, especially comparing them to last year's sorry bunch.

Mike Reiss

  (12:58 PM)

I'd say better than last year, Ian, with Bodden really stepping in. Wilhite a little up and down.

Jim (Harrisburg,PA)

Hi Mike: In Week 1, the Jets blitzed Houston and dictated the tempo of Houston. Knowing this going into Week 2, why did it appear as if the Pats were unprepared? I know that every lose is a good learning experience, so I believe they will grow from this. But why so unprepared looking?

Mike Reiss

  (1:00 PM)

Jim, I thought the Patriots were prepared for the blitz. I really thought their plan was sound and it was just a matter of making some plays that were there to be made. They convert a few of those red-zone chances early and I think the tone of the overall discussion is a lot different.

Mike Reiss

  (1:00 PM)

Thanks to everyone for chatting over the last hour. Now let's hand it over to Tedy Bruschi.

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:01 PM)

Hey guys I'm here live ready to talk some football. If you want some real answers throw me some good questions.

Mike (Needham)

Tedy, thanks for doing the chats, it's great insight. Can you give a brief description of how the middle linebackers role changes when they play a 4-3 vs a 3-4

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:05 PM)

In a 3-4 you have 3 defensive linemen in front of you, and they have set responsibilities. They have 2 gaps to take care of, as do the 2 inside linebackers. In the 4-3 there is more flexibility. The inside linebacker can give the defensive linemen stunt calls where they can penetrate the gaps and the inside linebacker has the freedom to flow over the top of a play.

will (iraq)

tedy, would you be willing to come back if the patriots asked you? especially with all the problems they are having at lb.

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:07 PM)

Will I am going to tell you the truth. I am not going to be Brett Favre. I have made my decision, it is time to move on, that team is going to be fine without me.

Dave (RI)

Tedy, from years past. How do you think Bill intends on stopping Tony G this week?

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:10 PM)

Double team, double team, double team, especially when they get in the red area. Tony is the biggest red area threat in the NFL, he will be Matt Ryan's No. 1 target. Expect a linebacker and a defensive back to be on him, maybe 2 defensive backs. He already has 2 touchdowns this year.

Steve (Peabody)

Tedy, thanks for all the memories with the Pats! Having seen Tom play the last two weeks below his usual level, do you see anything with his play that is a concern long term? Thanks

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:13 PM)

No long term concerns with Tom Brady. The only concern I would have is all the pressure that has been able to get to him up to this point. He has been constantly shuffling out of the pocket to throw his passes, and with a QB like Tom you want him to be in a circle of comfort inside the pocket when he delivers the ball. Long term Tom is going to be fine. Short term, they have to be ready for Atlanta to have similar schemes that they've seen the past two weeks because this is a copycat league.

SprungOnSports (Long Island)

After getting pressured so much by the Jets last week, how will the Pats try and stop an elite pass rusher like John Abraham?

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:16 PM)

With the Jets it was more schemes, the overload blitzes coming from one side, the inside linebackers crossing up the middle. With John Abraham, if you just want to stop one rusher, you can put a tight end in front of him, you can put a running back on him to chip him as he comes up the field, you can slide the protection to him.

Louis (Bedford)

Hi Tedy, I understand Brady identifies the "Mike" LB on each play to set up protections. What does the defensive equivalent do on each play?

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:19 PM)

The first responsibility of the "Mike" linebacker is to establish the strength of formation. That's usually where the tight end aligns. He then must recognize the formation. If the receivers are aligned in ways where adjustments are needed, for example, empty formations, which is no running backs in the backfield, three receivers to one side, one receiver to the other side, these are certain looks the inside linebacker and the defenses have their own calls to adjust to. After all those adjustments are made, the inside linebacker can then make pass rush calls to the defensive line. And all of that must be done in a matter of seconds.

Jake (Orlando)

Tedy, what would a typical practice week be like after a disheatening loss the Pats suffered this weekend to Jets? Did Coach do anything differently?

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:24 PM)

Jake I am sure there are a lot of corrections that will be made this week. Coach Belichick is the best in the business when it comes to making adjustments and corrections. I feel good about the team putting out a better performance this week. Playing a team like Atlanta, which is a team they are not very familiar with, they will have to be in their play books even more this week, learning the players' names, their numbers, what positions they play, what tricks do they use in their individual games. Also Coach Belichick utilizes these weeks to ask the team quiz-like questions during team meetings to see if players are familiar with the new team. For example, he could ask an offensive lineman, "Name me their four down defensive linemen?" and he would have to answer in front of the whole team.

Paul (Newton)

Tedy,Were you impressed with the Jets crowd noise and involvement last week? Do you think it was more of a factor, than it has been in past Jets road games?

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:26 PM)

I think Rex Ryan's voicemail really got the crowd fired up. They felt like they were part of that team on that day. The Patriots using the chalk boards with the numbers on them was evidence of how loud it was in that stadium.

Andy (Melrose)

Tedy,Thanks for everything you gave to the Patriots in your amazing career. How is your buddy Jerod Mayo doing? When do you think he will be back?

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:27 PM)

Jerod is young and is a fast healer. But I would say he still has a couple more weeks before he hits the field.

nick farruggia (durham, NH)

Tedy, how long do you think the patriots can get away with throwing the ball 50 times a game? I understand we have a lot of talent at the WR position, but how crucial do you think it is to establish the running game?

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:28 PM)

They can't. They've got four great running backs, they have to start to use them.

Randy (Manchester NH)

Tedy, Sad to see you leave the Pats, But glad to see you in the Boston scene! With your knowledge of the team, Where do you see the Patriots after game 16?

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:30 PM)

I see the New England Patriots in the playoffs. They are a mentally tough team that doesn't get too down on themselves after a loss. They will bounce back and as the year progresses will get better and better.

Jimbo (Boston)

The Patriots have typically been one of the least penalized teams in the league. What does Coach do if the penalties suddenly balloon (i.e. how can you practice not doing dumb penalties like false starts)?

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:32 PM)

They had 11 penalties last week and that is way too much. And you're right, some of those penalties were false starts and delay if games, these are the penalties you have to eliminate. They are penalties due to a lack of focus. You can't really coach against it, just repeatedly emphasize vocally that this is what you can't have. And players just have to understand that.

Brendan (Boston)

Hey Tedy,I have been a long time fan of yours, so I wanted to recognize that. My question for you is, why did we not go into more two tight end sets and i-formation setup against the jets? I have been the biggest proponent of the spread offense (see Giants Superbowl where we should have gone no-huddle earlier to off-set the great passrush) but in that jets game it seemed Rex Ryan game played against the spread offense and we kind of played into their hand... What I saw was a lack of adjustment at halftime to going to a more run the ball, get the playaction going type offense... in my oppinon if Brady is still not there, shouldn't we be making it easier for him? not harder? we were only down one score so the playing from behind excuse is not relevant to me. Two tight end sets and sets with fullbacks allow for more blocking and surprising for who is going to block, who is going to go out to recieve a short pass as a safety valve for brady when he gets pressured.

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:35 PM)

I agree with you, Brendan, and all of New England does also. I also think that the Patriots coaching staff will recognize their error of last week. Teams have shown success against the Falcons the first two weeks running the ball. Look for the Patriots to exploit that weakness. If not, we will revisit this next week in my chat.

Justin (D.C.)

Tedy, Since you were a leader on this team, you likely possessed a voice in the locker room, that the rooks looked up to. On defense with all the young guys and Mayo out, who needs to step and be that inspirational leader?

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:37 PM)

i think Brandon Meriweather needs to be that guy, and I think Vince Wilfork needs to be that guy. Also Adalius Thomas is still in that locker room. One more question, everyone ...

Dan (Boston)

Tedy: Mayo cited you as one of his mentors. Two questions, who was your mentor in your early days as a Pat and who is the hardest hitter you've ever played with?

Tedy Bruschi

  (1:41 PM)

My early mentor in my career was Chris Slade, No. 53. He took me under his wing when I was a rookie and showed me the ropes. One of the hardest-hitting linebackers I played with was Ted Johnson. There was one game he literally split an offensive lineman's helmet in half and it exploded off of his head. It was great chatting with all of you today, I love the fans of New England because they know what they are talking about. Great questions everyone. If I missed your question this week, come back next week and I will try to get to it then.

Buzzmaster

  (1:42 PM)

Thanks Teddy! Atlanta Journal Constitution Falcons blogger D. Orlando Ledbetter is up next!

Paul (Newton)

As a follow up, do you think the Pats fans need to step up their noise levels?

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (1:45 PM)

That always is a factor in the Georgia Dome. Fans have been able been to force teams into timeouts and offside penalties. But I don't see noise being a factor in this game.

David (North Attleboro,Ma)

All games are important but considering the the Falcons were 4-5 on the road last year does this first road game magnify it's importance?

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (1:46 PM)

Yes it does. No doubt it's a bell weather game.

Sonny_Corlione (Washington, DC)

What is the general sentiment regarding the Patriots organization from the perspective of the Falcons and their following?

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (1:48 PM)

It's not a secret that the Falcons have tried to model themselves after the Patriots. Arthur Blank is a big fan of Bob Kraft. He seeks his advice about the football team.

Sam (Ottawa, Canada)

Does Ted Turner own the Georgia Dome?

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (1:49 PM)

(laughing) No. It's publicly owned buy the state of Georgia.

Nick (Worcester, MA)

Give us a score for the game this weekend. I say 38-31 Falcons in a defenseless gridiron battle.

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (1:50 PM)

It could be the other way around is the Patriots passing game clicks. It could very well be 38-31 New England.

Dave (RI)

How well do the Falcon corners match up against the Patriots WR's?

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (1:51 PM)

Not very well one-on-one. Look for a lot of zone coverage.

Sam (Ottawa, Canada)

How has Matt Ryan performed over his first 18-19 games against teams with good DBs? Does he get rattled or try to force the ball into tight spots?

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (1:53 PM)

No, he has shown the pose of a veteran throughout. He has had some of his most successful games against teams with good secondarys. He is coming off his first three touchdown game against the Panther whose secondary is no slouch.

Scott (Fairfax, VA)

What do you see as the most important factors in order for the Falcons to be succesful against the Patriots?

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (1:54 PM)

They have to run the football and keep Tom Brady on the bench. Michael Turner is off to a good start and they need him to continue that with a big game on Sunday.

Martin (McAllen, TX)

How big of a loss is Josh McDaniels in all this he was Tom's QB coach for a long time.

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (1:55 PM)

We've seen them replace a offensive coordinator before in New England. I would say its a big factor seeing the way they have played in the first two game. I think everybody knows they will get things together sooner or later.

Sonny_Corlione (Washington, DC)

Was it a consideration of the Falcons to pick up Michael Vick this season? I'm sure it's something that they would like to put behind them but he had a large passionate following down there.

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (1:57 PM)

NO ...that wasn't even in consideration. He burned too many bridges within the organization for that to even be considered.

Mike (L.A.)

A certain Boston beatwriter as well as others say it is the end of the dynasty. What's your take? If you saw him in an elevator, would you take him out?

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (1:59 PM)

(laughing) No. I think that might be premature but their defense doesn't look like their defense of old. I think it's an over reaction to the Jets loss.

John (USA)

How is the excitement over the falcons in Atlanta? Attendance? Has Ryan got the city buzzing more than Vick?

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (2:00 PM)

The games are sold out, there are no blackouts. They are more of a team now. They aren't marketing the team after one person. They aren't Matt Ryan and the Atlanta Falcons, they are just the Atlanta Falcons. They put too many of their eggs in one basket with Michael Vick and it backfired. They won't do that with Matt.

David (North Attleboro,Ma)

When Welker returns to the lineup could we see some Moss, Edelman , and Welker sets or is Edelman strictly a slot receiver ?

Sam (Ottawa, Canada)

Why are NFL scouts so inept? I mean how do they decide both Matt Ryan and Jamarcus Russel are top 10 picks; its obvious to the casual observer Ryan has the total package while Russel just does not have the accuracy or patience.

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (2:05 PM)

There are two different schools of thoughts. Some go by measurables (height, weight, speed, etc.) while others go by intangibles (how they read a defense, lead a team, etc.). This happens especially when it comes to scouting quarterbacks.

Russ Cobleigh (värnamo sweden)

Brady seems a bit gunshy so far this season, do you think he will snap out of it?

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (2:06 PM)

Yes, its just a matter of time. He's been out of football for a year. I don't care what people say, it's not like riding a bike. It's going to take sometime to shake the rust off.

David (North Attleboro,Ma)

Who will replace Peria Jerry and do you think the run defense will still be a problem Sunday?

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (2:07 PM)

Thomas Johnson will replace him on run downs and on pass pass it will be Chauncey Davis. The run defense will be solid but there might be an issue with the new players in there.

Dave (Boston)

How far do you see the Falcons going this season? Can they beat the Saints?

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (2:09 PM)

I don't know if anybody can beat the Saints right now, they look pretty good. Gregg Williams, the Saints new defensive coordinator has put together a good defense down there so it should be a good NFC South battle.

D. Orlando Ledbetter

  (2:13 PM)

Thank you for all the great questions. I hope you enjoy a good Sunday of great football.