Mike Reiss

  (11:58 AM)

Good afternoon and welcome to today's chat. Just getting a few things together and then we'll get started.

Mike Reiss

  (12:03 PM)

Here at Gillette Stadium today. The mood this week around the team is to worry about themselves and not get caught up in records.

Mike Reiss

  (12:04 PM)

I think the big area on the injury front this week is along the o-line. Patriots will be without starting RT Sebastian Vollmer and I think there is some doubt that centers Ryan Wendell (calf) and Dan Connolly (groin) will be ready to go. Remember the name Nick McDonald. He's on the practice squad and he's getting some first-team reps in practice.

Mike Reiss

  (12:05 PM)

Today's lead-in question is which game could be most dangerous to the Patriots of the remaining five. I'll post some answers as we make our way through the chat.

Ryan (MA)

Do the pats have better personnel for a 4-3 or 3-4 moving forward?

Mike Reiss

  (12:05 PM)

That's a good question, Ryan. I think they could go in either direction and be OK.

Sam (Patriot Place)

Mike, How much blame goes on TB for the lack of developing of wide receivers around here? I see what Rodgers, Brees & even Manning have done but not us. I always hear how PM gets his receivers together during the offseason to work on timing but TB is spending time dancing (if you can call it that). Seems to me like everyone wants to use the excuse that the system is complex but when Gronk, Hernandes Eldeman (a former QB) can pick it up it cant be that bad. I really want them to throw Price out there every play once we secure the division.

Mike Reiss

  (12:07 PM)

Sam, here is my feeling on Price: I think they are trying to "harden" him from a mental toughness standpoint. That is not a good sign when he's not playing and Tiquan Underwood, signed that week, is getting snaps over him. I don't think it means it's over for Price, but it is a troubling sign. Let's see how he responds.

Thomas (Baltimore)

Juilian Edelman was a QB at Kent State. Why not use him in a wildcat package?

Mike Reiss

  (12:07 PM)

Thomas, I'm not sure Edelman needs another thing to do right now -- receiver, defensive back, returner ... They have used him in that role, but have not had success with it. In fact, I recall some ball security issues with Edelman in that role, I believe it was last year.

Jacob (Sarnia, Ontario)

Mike, which AFC team do you think will give the Patriots the most problems in the playoffs?

Mike Reiss

  (12:08 PM)

Jacob, I think it's the two from the AFC North -- Baltimore and Pittsburgh.

Kruxphender (Munich, Germany)

Mike, how do you make all your posts to the blog either on the hour or :15 minutes, and Forsberg is all over the place - :04, :23, :39?

Mike Reiss

  (12:10 PM)

Hi Krux, players say they take it one game at a time. I go an hour at a time. :) Seriously, I usually "clean up the blog post" by rounding up or down to the nearest 0 or 5. Yes, I have a little "Monk" in me.

MarkJ (Japan)

post your question or commentGood see NBA is back. Well, will Chris go back to Celtics beat? Or will he keep contributing here as 'slash'?

Mike Reiss

  (12:10 PM)

MarkJ, we're still working through some personnel stuff on ESPNBoston.com. Check the waiver wire at 4 p.m. ET for more ...

Mike Reiss

  (12:11 PM)

Seriously, I think you'll see Chris do a little bit of both. We can't lose him on here. Too valuable on Patriots, I say!

Sean (Boston)

Just finished reading War Room. I thought it was very good. I was surprised to read that BB thinks the secound round of the draft is where the highest probability for a bust is. I assume this is why he accumulates so many picks in that round. Was just wondering your thoughts on this.

Mike Reiss

  (12:13 PM)

Sean, I haven't had a chance to read it yet. Had it on the train ride to Philly but got caught up writing a "Is this the week that Taylor Price breaks through piece?" that made me look foolish in retrospect. As for the second round, I think there is an econonomic component, coupled with a quantity component, as to why there have been so many second-rounders for the Patriots. In other words, the combination of economic value and throwing more darts at the board was appealing to Belichick. That might change in the new rookie-cap system.

Jay (Nova Scotia)

Mike, I was watching Belichick's Press Conf. for the Colts yesterday and he was talking about being caught up by a hurry up offence and not being able to substitute players and needing players to play all three downs. Do you think that reasoning had something to do with letting Haynesworth go? Being that he wasn't able to be a three down player if they were caught in a hurry up offence? I think other teams would be able to easily exploit him if he was on the field for to many downs.

Mike Reiss

  (12:14 PM)

Jay, to me, the Haynesworth release was simple. He didn't fit here. Was more concerned about his own situation than the team. Wasn't playing within the system, but instead, doing his own thing. I don't think it had anything to do with two-down or three-down type players.

Jay (Adams, MA)

So, is Edelman officially now a cornerback? Looks better on the defensive side of the ball than as a receiver. Seems like he's able to get off blocks, and he's got phenomenal quickness. Willing to put on a hit, and a clean hit; if Brandon Meriweather had his tackling technique, he'd be an All Pro.Can he have long-term success as a nickel corner?

Mike Reiss

  (12:15 PM)

Jay, Belichick's response on this one caught my eye yesterday. Including the link here, but for those who don't go to the link, the bottom line is that Belichick likes what he sees but says it's too early to be thinking about a full-time switch. http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4711074/edelman-and-a-full-time-role-at-cb

Eliott (Mass)

Mike, agree with you on the two teams from the north posing the biggest post-season threats. Therefore, is the 2-seed better than the 1-seed since the 1-seed will most likely play the 5-seed...which will most likely be Ravens and Steelers? That way they can bang each other up while the Pats get a slightly easier match up with the Texans/Raiders/Broncos?

Mike Reiss

  (12:16 PM)

Had that same conversation with a family member recently. I think you always play for the No. 1, but in this case, maybe the 2 isn't so bad. Wouldn't want to play both those teams if possible.

Jane (NYC)

Do you think, maybe that the underperformance of young receivers in the Pat's system has to do with the fact that the Pat's offensive system is complex and specific and therefore it's less about talent than fit? Whereas I think the TE's have come along so nicely because there wasn't a TE system before Gronk and Hernandez, the Pats molded the system around their innate talents.

Mike Reiss

  (12:18 PM)

Jane, this was touched on in this week's Patriots mailbag, and I'm going to include the link here because it will provide more detail. But I think it's a combination of a couple things -- 1. The need to pick better WRs; 2. How the young WRs are brought along in the system.http://espn.go.com/boston/nfl/story/_/page/reissmailbag-week13/defensive-improvement-real

farn (Nova Scotia)

I suppose the toughest game would have to be the last one - because NE might be playing it with their third stringers. If they don,t need to win that last game to "place" they won't care if they win or lose and BB will say "we tried things"...

Mike Reiss

  (12:18 PM)

Thanks farn.

Karl (Charlotte)

How real is Ochocinco's hamstring injury? On a related note, could Price's hamstring been what kept him out of the game on Sunday--was he active to be available in an emergency?

Mike Reiss

  (12:19 PM)

Karl, I have my doubts about Ochocinco's hamstring. I'm not saying it isn't hurt, just that I have doubts about that being what kept him out. There have been some mixed messages there from Ocho. As for Price, he said Friday of last week that his legs felt great. I don't think it was health related. Coaches decision in my view.

Dan (Leominster)

Mike,I'm going to break BB's rules here and look ahead.Much to my chagrin, I see the Jets making the playoffs as the second wildcard. I see Oakland being the lowest seated division winner. Guess what that leaves us with.......the Jets going to Houston playing a team with no QB and virtually getting a free pass (again) to the next round, against us. REMATCH, BABY!!!! The only problem, it's so hard to beat a team threetimes in one year!

Mike Reiss

  (12:20 PM)

Patriots-Jets, Part 3, a chance to right the wrong from the 2010 playoffs? Oh boy, Dan, I think my employer would have a field day with that one.

Jason (Montpelier)

listening to your podcast and the comparison of Brady going down vs Manning going down for the year. Obviously NE did a great job being ready, but how quickly we overlook Bledsoe going down, and here Brady was ready to come in-this may be a bigger testimony to our coaching/management philosophy!

Mike Reiss

  (12:20 PM)

Thanks for listening to the podcast, Jason. I think Tedy Bruschi's insight is second to none. I have to remind myself to talk less and let him talk more.

Mike W (Bethlehem, PA)

Do you see any of the Pats games being "flexed" the rest of the year (to 8 PM or to 4 PM)?

Mike Reiss

  (12:22 PM)

Mike, the lone candidate from this view is that Broncos game. I'm hoping it stays where it is, and I think the players are too. Those prime-time road games take a lot out of a team, and there is a short week after the Broncos game (with the Dolphins game on Saturday).

Sid T (Portugal)

The toughest matchups will be Denver or Miami, considering both teams resurgences over the last month or so. Between the two, I would choose Miami considering they have always played them tough. I have two questions, I am sure that upcoming "easy" schedule has seeped into the locker room, even though BB is trying hard to keep everyone in line. How much will this affect the roster in the upcoming games? Also, I noticed that there are many more long punt returns than in the past while the kick off returns are about the same, just wondering if you have any thoughts on this.

Mike Reiss

  (12:23 PM)

Thanks Sid. I don't see the "easy" schedule being a factor. This team is mentally tough. I believe they can handle it. On the punt returns, I'd want to look closer at it, but it doesn't stand out to me off the cuff.

Regis_66 (Braintree)

Mike, I think the Denver game will be the toughest game left on the schedule. The last time they won was in 2008 in a blow out. I just think with Tebowmania and all the hype it is going to be a tough game. They have only won there once in the past five years and I just think they have a hard time playing there.

Mike Reiss

  (12:23 PM)

I like it, Regis. I know Tedy Bruschi thinks Washington. He has a lot of respect for Mike Shanahan.

Rob (Borough of Manhattan)

Hi Mike - Marcus Cannon has gotten some reps the last two weeks. Do you see his role increasing if Vollmer is out for significant time?

Mike Reiss

  (12:24 PM)

Rob, I'd put Solder in there at RT, and then bring Cannon on when you want to use Solder as a TE. That would entail some running on and off the field -- Solder couldn't go from an eligible receiver to playing on the line without missing a play -- and we've seen the Patriots do that before. That's what I'd expect to happen this week.

Bob (Spotsylvania, VA)

Mike, What does it mean when Tom Brady and other QB's interlock their fingers several times in a row prior to running a play? What does that signal? I see him doing it a lot in the no-huddle offense. Thanks.

Mike Reiss

  (12:26 PM)

Bob, often times that is the signal to huddle up. But if we're talking about it happening during the no-huddle, I think you nailed it; it's Brady just communicating to WRs and TEs which play he is calling.

Rob (Borough of Manhattan)

Hi Mike- You made a point yesterday on the blog that Belichick is always turning over the back-end of his roster in order to improve the overall talent level. I can understand why he would want to take advantage of the flexibility he has in that end of the roster to improve the team. However, I keep hearing that one of the reasons the defense has improved in the last few weeks is b/c guys have been able to gain more experience working together as a unit. As we get into the later stages of the season, isn't there a risk that the defense could regress if you take out pieces like Phillip Adams and bring in new faces like Nate Jones? Will Nate Jones have enough time to pick up the system? I am not saying that Adams was Ty Law out there but why mess with something that seems to be getting better? Could it be that experience working together as a unit is overrated?

Mike Reiss

  (12:28 PM)

Interesting topic, Rob. There is some risk involved any time there is turnover. In this case, I really believe BB just didn't believe the level of play was up to the required standard. I truly believe he gets sick when he watches what he feels is bad football. When that is the case, BB isn't going to choose continuity over poor performance. That's just my take on it. I could be way off.

Chris Fiegler (Latham,NY)

Do you think that the Patriots will be good enough to play in Super Bowl XLVI?

Mike Reiss

  (12:28 PM)

Chris, I think they have as good of a chance as any other AFC team.

Dennis (CA)

Hey Mike - Do you sense in the locker room that this team is gaining belief that they can win it all?

Mike Reiss

  (12:28 PM)

Dennis, I get the sense that players feel they have a good group that has potential to do some special things.

Jamie (ATL)

Do you think BB and staff were being extra cautious with McCourty and Chung the last couple of weeks because they thought they could win without those players, but would definitely need them for the final reg season games and playoffs? How are those injuries coming along?

Mike Reiss

  (12:29 PM)

That wouldn't surprise me, Jamie. Taking a big-picture approach on health-related issues is often the smart play.

Garrett H (Manchester, NH)

Mike, if the Pats were to make the Super Bowl, and Green Bay happened to be in it as well, still undefeated, do you think they could pull it off and beat them?

Mike Reiss

  (12:30 PM)

Absolutely Garrett. I have some doubts about Green Bay's defense. Also, as we've seen in past Super Bowls (vs. Rams, vs. Giants), anything is possible. That's why the NFL is great.

Liam (Charlestown)

Mike, is the lack of a viable 3rd WR going to catch up with the Pats at some point? I undertand that they have the personnel to do other things (i.e. 2 TE sets, etc.). But if Branch or Welker are injured or are game planned against by a better D come playoff time, where are the Pats going to find a guy that can hurt the D by focusing too much on their top 2 WRs? As much as this offense is a machine when performing well, are they a 3rd WR option away from being playoff ready/

Mike Reiss

  (12:31 PM)

It could, Liam, but I look at things a little differently. When a team's biggest offensive issue is the third receiver -- especially a team with a base offense of 2 WR/2 TE -- that's a "high-class" problem. No team has complete depth/quality across the board. Ideally, they'd have a more sure-fire option there (Ocho has been a big disappointment), especially given Branch's injury history, but if that's the biggest issue I think they'll be OK.

Sean (Minnesota)

While I still like the fact that the defense is generating turnovers I still can't help but wonder how this team would have looked with guys like Dunlap and Matthews on the roster. Is GM Belichek making things tougher on coach Belichek?

Mike Reiss

  (12:32 PM)

Sean, I believe he is. Personnel is tough. BB has made some good picks (e.g. Gronkowski) but the misses have added up.

Matt (Duxbury)

Broncos..(In Denver) who have a ball control offense which will limit the times brady gets the ball. There defense has also been playing very well.

Mike Reiss

  (12:32 PM)

Thanks Matt. Hope all is well in Duxbury.

munchkin (glenwood springs, co)

Mike, depending on which Redskin team shows up, that could be the most difficult matchup. Shanahan seems to put together competitive game plans against Belichick and they can get pressure off the edge with Orakpo and Kerrigan. London Fletcher is also playing well. Yes it's Grossman at QB but he has had some decent games and Fred Davis and Santana Moss are legitimate targets. Helu could also pose a threat as a receiver out of the backfield and he has legit top speed. There is too much tape on Tebow for the defense not to be ready for that side show. The Pats will have to slow down Von Miller and Dumervil. That aspect of the game will provide a good test for the O-line. I fully expect to show up to work on Monday the 19th with a big smile on my face and an "I told ya so" for all the Broncos' fans in the office:) Any chance you show up for the Pikes Peak Patriots fan club party the night before the game? I believe your adopted father Mr Kraft and the PFW crew were there the last time the Pats were in Denver.

Mike Reiss

  (12:33 PM)

Munchkin, a regular on the menu. I am planning to attend the party in Denver that night, but always like to leave myself open for the possibility of a late change based on breaking news.

Hoogie (Lexington)

Why are the Pats using Woodhead as the deep man on kickoffs opposed to Vareen? Seems like Vareen has more burst than Woodhead...

Mike Reiss

  (12:33 PM)

Hoogie, I wish I knew the answer because I don't think it's looked too good. I'd like to see Vereen get a shot.

Akoko (maryland)

i am very impressed with the PATS victory last Sunday but I must say that the defense is improving every week and this is a good sign for the PATS. Can you pls tell the draft picks for next year. Thank you Mike.

Mike Reiss

  (12:35 PM)

Draft picks for 2012:First roundFirst round (Saints)Second roundSecond round (Raiders)Third roundFourth round

Jeff (Ohio)

Mike, is it too early to criticize BB for a draft pick from 2011? I remember you saying that the Ras-I-Dowling pick would be scrutinized because of the edge rusher help we needed was not drafted and he was. I know it is easier to look back and judge, but I can't help but think that Jabaal Sheard would be a pass rushing beast in this defense, and Dowling looks like the same injured player he was in college. Any thoughts?

Mike Reiss

  (12:35 PM)

Jeff, I think it is too early. I felt like Sheard or Brooks Reed would have been better picks, but I think it's only fair to give Dowling another year to prove himself.

Lee Tempest (Gloucester UK)

Mike, its late in the fourth quarter of Sundays game against the Colts, and somehow the game is still close. Its 4th and 2 from the patriots 28yrd line, Does BB go for it or punt?

Mike Reiss

  (12:36 PM)

Why do you have to do that, Lee? :)

Jay (Adams, MA)

Re: the Denver game.... I think that's the game that Tebow gets exposed. They'll have enough film on him to figure out how to best attack his weaknesses. Keep one of the faster linebackers (Mayo? Guyton?) as a spy, and make sure to cover the deep ball. I mean, there isn't a team more one-dimensional on offense than Denver, and BB is still the master at taking away the thing the opponent does best.

Mike Reiss

  (12:36 PM)

Feel the same way, Jay. I thought Paul Perrillo of Patriots Football Weekly said it best. "Do you think the Patriots will score more than 20 points that game?" If you do, hard to see the Broncos winning.

max (my cube)

Mike, you answered this somewhat in your mailbag but I am still puzzled about the decision to insert Hoyer against Eagles but not against Chiefs. Andy Reid may have been his buddy but so was Romeo Crennel and if I recall Bellichick had worked with Todd Haley before. Furthermore, the Chiefs are primarily built to run whereas the Eagles have so much explosiveness offensively, so the risk of losing the lead was greater against the Eagles. So what gives? Maybe he didn't like Haley's non-handshake to Josh McD last year? :)

Mike Reiss

  (12:37 PM)

Max, it might have been related to the Patriots playing a poor first half against the Chiefs and Belichick wanting to give the unit more time to fine-tune things. A little risky, but I could understand it. After the first drive, that offense was pretty sharp against the Eagles.

Dan (Manchester, NH)

I saw a quote from Edelman from after the game regarding his solid hit on Vince Young, saying basically that he just wanted to hit Young right in "the zone" to avoid drawing a flag due to the new defensive rules. I wonder if it's easier for someone like Edelman, who hasn't played defense since Pop Warner, to pick up on the new rules because he's learning how to play defense for the first time under said rules. 99% of defensive players have been learning to play one way their whole life before having more restrictive rules complicate things once they get to the highest level of their profession.

Mike Reiss

  (12:38 PM)

Good point, Dan. Hadn't thought of that.

Josh (DC)

You think the coaching staff will want to get a good long look at Vereen this weekend if they jump out to a commanding lead early, or do you think they already know what they have in Vereen?

Mike Reiss

  (12:39 PM)

Josh, I think they view Vereen as an ascending player. I think they like what they have, but know there is plenty of growth there.

Zack (Somerville)

Hey Mike, It might sound strange, but the tougest remaining game to me is the Miami game. They started 0-7, but a team with those players on defense is bound to turn it around at some point. They seem to have done so, and Brady is going to have a faceful of Cameron Wake to deal with.

Mike Reiss

  (12:39 PM)

Thanks Zack.

Al (Newark, NJ)

Hi Mike,Would it be an overstatement if I said that I believe than Shaun Ellis has been a much bigger disappointment than Haynesworth and Ochocinco?

Mike Reiss

  (12:40 PM)

Not at all, Al, if that's what you believe. To me, Ellis was insurance with some health questions on the line coming into camp (Brace, Deaderick) and those questions have been answered now. Ellis looks a bit old now, but as long as he's staying on board with the Patriots' way of doing things -- and all indications are that he is doing just that -- he's good insurance in my view.

Mike Reiss

  (12:40 PM)

Also, has come up big in playoffs before. Like having those guys around.

Matt (Elon NC)

I think the toughest remaining game is the Broncos. They've been winning, Tebow's played unconventionally well, and it should be an interesting challenge to try and stop them.

Mike Reiss

  (12:40 PM)

Thanks Matt. Always representing from Elon.

Chris (ABQ, NM)

Hi Mike! As always, thanks for the chat. Was frantically looking for it last week before I realized it was Thanksgiving...hope you had a good one! As to the Pats' toughest remaining game, I'm actually inclined to believe it'll be Miami. They seem to have found their stride and, though they aren't playing for the playoffs anymore, they'll be playing for both divisional pride and the chance to avenge their season-opening home loss. Question for you re: Chung and McCourty. Though limited, they both returned to practice yesterday. Given that the Colts are not an offensive powerhouse right now, do you think the staff gives them each another week to recover, or do you think this would be a perfect time to ease them back into the game a bit? Thanks again, Mike!

Eric (MA)

Why doesn't Adam'a have practice squad eligibility? I don't agree with his release because he seemed to challenge throws pretty regularly more than other CBs.

Mike Reiss

  (12:42 PM)

Thanks Chris. I don't think there is any need to rush it. Believe they will play "better safe than sorry" when it comes to the injured guys. If they're on the field, it's because it's decisive that they're ready.

Mike Reiss

  (12:42 PM)

Sorry about that. Posted a question before answering a question. False start -- 5 yards.

Mike Reiss

  (12:43 PM)

Eric, no practice squad eligibility for Adams because he appeared in 15 games as a rookie with 49ers. That makes him ineligible.

Philip Berardinelli (Braintree)

Mike, Denver is going to be tough. I just think the hype with Tebow will be a media nightmare especially if Denver wins this weekend. Mike do you think BB will take a look a Jason Hill the WR just cut by the Jaguars? He is a decent outside threat with good speed.

Mike Reiss

  (12:43 PM)

Thanks Philip. I do believe the Patriots will take a look at Hill. Whether they sign him or not, I'd just be guessing.

Andrew (Madison, WI)

Hey Mike, I don't think we'll lose any of the remaining, but the two "tests" are Denver and Buffalo. For Denver, it'll be a good barometer of how we match up against a tough defensive front (actually Indy, too). Buffalo lit up our secondary earlier in the season. We can't beat NO, GB, or the Ravens, if we don't get better in those two areas.

Mike Reiss

  (12:43 PM)

Thanks Andrew. Madison -- great city.

Jake Cole (Palmyra, NY)

I think the Miami game looks the toughest, since they're on an upswing and the last game Chad Heine tore up the NE secondary that was healthy. Who knows what Moore will be capable of. two questions for you - can you (and the rest of the media) stop overusing the term "ran a clinic" when describing QB performance? It seems like the new kewl phrase to describe when a QB executes well, and with all the "clinics" being run lately you'd think this was Doctors sans frontiers instead of the NFL. Now on to the Pats question, even with the injuries to key players in the secondary the production hasn't much changed. Arrington is playing well and Moulden has been an even swap for McCourty. I can see Chung making a difference when he returns, but should we expect anything different from McCourty then what we've seen so far this year?

Mike Reiss

  (12:45 PM)

Thanks Jake. I stay away from the clinic, but like "surgical precision." Can I get away with that? On McCourty, I'm not sure we could say anything definitively. But he's a good player and I figure it will turn around eventually.

Tom "T-money" Kabara (Connecticut)

Mike, I gotta go with Denver as the toughest remaining game. Tebow's performance over the last few weeks leaves me thinking the Pats will need some kind of...ahem...divine intervention...to pull out a win in Denver.

Mike Reiss

  (12:45 PM)

T-money checks in.

Neil (South Boston)

Mike, it looks like Chung, McCourty, and Spikes are starting to get a bit healthier. How do you think their return will affect a defense, and particularly a secondary, that seems to have rallied around itself over the last several weeks?

Mike Reiss

  (12:46 PM)

It only makes them better in my book, Neil.

Brett (NoDak)

Re: (Which game left...) It has to be Miami right? It's divisional, and they're playing much better right now. However, it's in Gillette in the cold... I guess Denver? Ha, j/k with how young our defense is I'm sure they remember how to defend the option from when they were in college. Can it be the Rex Grossman led Redskins? It is on the road! But I just can't say that and feel good about myself. Obviously Indy is out of the question so I guess that leaves the Bills game. Ok, the Bills game will be the toughest to win because we will likely not care about the game and will be resting starters?

Mike Reiss

  (12:46 PM)

Like the way you talked through that one, Brett.

Vinny (Madtown, WI)

With Solder playing Tackle and Vollmer out - will we see Gronk 2 back at the 3rd TE this week? Is his locker still intact waiting for a call?

Mike Reiss

  (12:47 PM)

Don't think so, Vinny. Believe that blocking TE role will be handled by Solder or another OL. I think the thought from the coaching staff is that if Dan Gronkowski is just going to be a blocker, might as well use a sixth lineman. More value on the roster with that OL who helps you in two or possibly three spots.

Mark (Dublin, Ireland)

Re: Schedule - has to be Broncos or Dolphins - both on a roll. As we are at home for the latter, I'll go with the Broncos - difficult place for us and a whole new set of challenges on defending TT.Quick question - your post on Edelman as CB got me thinking - have the Pats essentially given up on him as viable 3rd receiver - somewhat reaching a plateau - as BB alluded to regarding development - and perhaps not doing enough off-the-ball as the Pats demand from their WRs. I realise he may be too similar to the NFL's best receiver to get on that often, but given continued drop in targets year-on-year and development of 2 headed TE monster - is he just now only an emergency option and another Tate, etc, without the full trust of the coaches??For the record, I think he's a talented, gritty player and would love to see him more on offense (above Ocho and Price IMO), but it seems to be the case that the coaches don't.

Mike Reiss

  (12:48 PM)

Thanks Mark. I don't think the Patriots have given up on Edelman as a third receiver. He played 23 snaps in that role vs. Eagles.

corky (Destin)

Hi Mike: It seems BJGE has been running really well the last couple of weeks vs the rookies, those carries given to the young guns seem a bit like wasted downs. Why not play the hot hand, when a guy is moving the chains?Cold weather Dec. games a few 100 yard games in BJGE??

Mike Reiss

  (12:49 PM)

Corky, I thought they rode BJGE in the first quarter of that Eagles game. It looked to me like they decided they'd go on a series by series basis with the backs, letting them get into a rhythm. I expect that to continue. Green-Ellis is your lead back. One factor to consider, though, is the different packages. When they go hurry-up, it's Woodhead/Faulk time.

Tim (Chocolate Town USA)

Mike, love the chats and look forward to them weekly. I had the chance to attend the game last Sunday in Philly and was thinking that we were somewhat fortunate to see a few passes dropped and underthrown by the Eagles. Defensive back play still seems to be inconsistent and a significant challenge in the future when it comes to facing elite QB's in post season. I don't really see any options for the Pats other then coaching up the current personel and praying for a turnaround from McCourty's performance. With that said and based on what you have observed this season ,what do you see as the draft priorities next year for NE and BB?

Mike Reiss

  (12:50 PM)

Thanks Tim. Nice to hear you look forward to the chats. I do too. Draft priorities -- speed at WR, center, defensive front seven. Those were the "quick-hit" thoughts that came to mind off the cuff.

Justin (New York via Sharon)

Hey Mike! I'm a bit concerned about our pass protection recently. While we seem to tighten up as the game goes on, Brady is getting killed out there in the early quarters. I was wondering, what happened to our screen game? I saw glimpses of it against the Eagles - is this a sign of things to come? With Gronk, Solder and Hernandez being big athletic guys who could definitely run out and block DB's for Woodhead, Welker or Vereen, why wouldn't we run more of these like the good ol' days? At the very least, it'll take some of the pressure off Brady and the line.

Mike Reiss

  (12:51 PM)

Justin, I like the screen game the last few weeks, particularly against the Chiefs. As for the pass protection, I encourage you to check out this link. Some real good technical stuff from Belichick on pass protection. Shows us stuff that we might not see otherwise.http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4711120/xs-and-os-interior-o-line-play

Julius Adams (Foxboro)

Mike....Haven't heard to much about the development of Ron Brace. Understand his snaps have been limited but does BB provide any insight on his progress? Have you evaluated his performance from his snaps played since his return? What is your overall sense of his status on the team?

Mike Reiss

  (12:52 PM)

Julius! A blast from the past. Haven't heard BB talk much about Brace this year. Not to sound harsh, but Brace is sort of a non-factor right now. I think he's a bubble guy on this roster.

Bill Walsh (Palo Alto, CA)

Mike - In my famous book, Finding the Winning Edge, I theorize that if a team has more than a 20% failure rate in drafting and evaluating free agents there is most likely a problem with the methodology or the people making personel decisions. Do you think Belichick feels that his recent "miss" rate is due to the process or people involved in evaluating new players?

Mike Reiss

  (12:54 PM)

From high above ... I really have no idea what BB thinks about this. Just when you think you have a read on him, he does something different. Wish I had more insight from him on this. Maybe he'll reveal some more about his thinking at some point.

Justin (New York via Sharon)

Hey Mike! Giving credit where credit is due, Aaron Rodgers and the Packers are having an incredible season - definitely one of the best ever through 11 games of football. That being said, I'm not particularly fond of the comparisons of the 2011 Packers and the 2007 Patriots - has everyone forgotten the Pats went through a playoff caliber SD chargers in week 2, a 5-0 Cowboys team and a 7-0 Colts team led by Peyton Manning? The toughest team the Packers have faced this season was the Saints in week 1. Brady's numbers through 11 games were actually better than Rodgers', yet it seems like people are talking about Rodgers as though it's the best football that has ever been played. Am I way off base here? Keep me honest, Mike!

Mike Reiss

  (12:55 PM)

I think Brady himeself was pretty complimentary of Rodgers this week. Let's tip the cap, Justin, and remember that all that matters is who is wearing a Super Bowl ring when all is said and done.

KTP (Wonderland, Revere)

Mike - I am very curious about the decision to let Dane Fletcher remain on the active roster even though his injury reduced his availability for an extended period of time. In the context of the decsions to place Dowling and Tarpinian on IR, it would seem as though Belichick views Fletcher as a very important player to the teams success. I thought it was interesting that he would feel this way with Spikes and Guyton at the same position.

Mike Reiss

  (12:55 PM)

Good point, KTP. I think there is validity to it.

Mike Reiss

  (12:55 PM)

5 minute warning...

Nick (Montreal)

Hi Mike, simple question. In your opinion, can this team win in the playoffs without a #3 wide receiver?

Mike Reiss

  (12:56 PM)

Ab-so-lute-ly. Broken up for effect.

shriram (chennai, india)

The Ocho Cinco saga is dragging on. While i understand keeping him on as insurance, it just seems that if his salary is keeping him safe for now. Will Ocho explode soon or fizzle out? Your trap game in the remaining schedule and why?

Mike Reiss

  (12:56 PM)

Not expecting much from Ocho at this point. Don't see any traps. This team is mentally tough and dialed in. They might have some tough games, but they won't be trapped.

James (Derry, NH)

Hey Mike, I know you can throw on the Colts, especially with all the injuries they?ve had in the secondary. It seems like this is teed up for Brady to have a monster game, but I also feel like you can run on the Colts. I think this will be a monster week for our running backs. I?m predicting over 200 yards on the ground this week. What do you think?

Mike Reiss

  (12:57 PM)

Could see it, James.

Brad (NY)

Rookie Question, assuming Dowling gets health next year. McCourty, Dowling (Size match up) as starters and Arrington and Edeleman in the slot? sounds like a good secondary to me

Mike Reiss

  (12:57 PM)

Brad, let's not count out Arrington just yet. I wouldn't hand that job to Dowling. He has to earn it.

Ken (Long Island)

Hi Mike...mark my words, this merry-go-round in the defensive backfield is going to be the down fall of this team in the playoffs...is there any way to get some stability back there?

Mike Reiss

  (12:58 PM)

Fair enough, Ken. The words are marked here. Stability figures to come when McCourty and Chung come back. You go into the playoffs with McCourty/Arrington as the top CBs, with Chung/Ihedigbo at safety. Is it good enough? Fair question.

Tim (Boston)

Mike, it seems you're correct that Jermaine Cunningham just isn't that good right now. My question is, what could have caused his regression. Last year,he played at a more than respectable level as a rookie OLB. Obviously he's blocked by Andre Carter who is playing at an exceptional level at the moment, but no doubt he's slipped to the bottom of the depth chart. He's shown talent before, he's got a good head coach and a good dline coach, seems like a hard either (spent his winter with Mayo), and he's being asked to play his old college position again. What gives?

Mike Reiss

  (12:59 PM)

Some might say the scheme change, Tim. Others might point to injuries that set him back. No offseason hurts too, with the lockout. Probably a little bit of everything here.

Tim (Newton, MA)

Taylor Price this week? Or is it a lost cause? And if there's no great improvement before the years end (improvement at the very least meaning some actual playing time) do you see Price getting a 3rd year here?

Mike Reiss

  (12:59 PM)

I'm out of the Taylor Price discussion after last week, Tim.

KABOOOOOM (DC)

Mike, if Gronkowski is going to drill for oil everytime he scores us fans need to back him up. I can't imagine anything firing him and team up more than if the whole crowd waited for him to spike it and then yelled BOOM

Mike Reiss

  (12:59 PM)

Boom!

Jason (Montpelier)

When do we start voting for Zoltan Mesko as our unsung hero? It seems he keeps getting better and better and given our need to win field position battles he is really the unsung hero!

Mike Reiss

  (1:00 PM)

Very strong season for Zoltan.

David B (New York)

MikeWhen I look at this defense, I still see a bunch of stiffs I don't trust against a playoff-caliber offense. There is not a reliable playmaker in the bunch (McCourty looked like one last year,but forget that). And since this is a carryover problem from the last couple of years, how is it possible that Belichick did not add one impactful defensive player in the draft this year -- especially given all the picks we had?

Mike Reiss

  (1:04 PM)

David, we seem to be at the point where people have 3 different thoughts:1. Nothing that happens in the regular season matters and it's all about the playoffs.2. People happy to enjoy the ride regardless of where it ends (after all, the team is 8-3 and one of the best in the NFL) because this is the golden era of Patriots football.3. Those who are focusing on personnel decisions and why there have been more whiffs than hits in recent years, and how frustrating that is because this is a chance to maximize Super Bowl potential with Tom Brady.I'm going to put you as a combination of 1 and 3. I get it, and think it's fair to scrutinize some personnel stuff, and also note that not much matters if the team fizzles out in the playoffs. BB said it as much last year. At the same time, I'm going to recommend a little bit of No. 2. In 10 years, something tells me we'll be chatting here and saying something along the lines of, "Remember how good it was back in the Belichick-Brady era?"

Jake Cole (Palmyra, NY)

Mike, Surgical percision is ok. As for Ellis being a disappointment, I look at it as he's not on the Jets harassing Brady so its more of an insurance policy.

Mike Reiss

  (1:04 PM)

Thanks for the go-ahead, Jake.

Jamie (ATL)

David B, I don't see a "playoff caliber" offense anywhere else in the AFC but in NE. PIT, maybe.

Mike Reiss

  (1:04 PM)

Jamie gets into the play.

Karen (East Lansing, Michigan)

Hi Mike - speaking of kickers... here's a change of pace question for ya - would a team EVER use a punter to try to kick a really long field goal? They seem to have the distance thing down.

Mike Reiss

  (1:05 PM)

Some teams have, Karen, but Stephen Gostkowski's leg is real strong for those long ones. No need to try it here.

Josh (Dallas, TX)

Wayyyyy too many posts answering the question. They all are saying the same thing. I like to change it up too, but sometimes it is too much. Love the work though!

Mike Reiss

  (1:05 PM)

Comment understood and processed. Thanks.

Chris (boston)

You mentioned the coaches trying to harden Price's mental toughness. Why so? Does he get down on himself easily or does have trouble with physicality? Any more insight?

Mike Reiss

  (1:06 PM)

Chris, reading between the lines is always dangerous, but here is my sense: I got the feeling coaches didn't feel Price practiced as well as they'd like last week. Complete speculation on my part, and just a feeling I get reading into remarks.

trader75 (wilton, ct)

I think forsberg is rubbing off on you with all these attempts at humor. Before long you'll be mingling in some yiddish catch phrases into your answers. oy vey can you imagine.

Mike Reiss

  (1:07 PM)

A little Forbserg never hurt anyone.

Pete (IL)

Mike, is Dan Koppen under contract for next year? Do you think they will look to spend a high draft pick at the Center position this year or do you think they are happy with Connolly/Wendell as the future of the position?

Mike Reiss

  (1:07 PM)

Pete, Koppen's contract expires after the 2011 season. I think they'll look to draft a center if the opportunity is there.

Tim (Newton, MA)

Hey Mike, I hate to get ahead of myself, (maybe listening too much to Bill), but is there any chance of Mallett dressing and possibly getting a few real snaps in late in the game (again, I know I'm looking to far ahead and assuming a large lead). Or do you think this will definitely be a red-shirt type year for him?

Mike Reiss

  (1:08 PM)

Tim, I would never shut you out of a chat. That would be like closing the doors on one of the best customers at a restaurant. We're always open for you, bud. I do think there is a chance we will see Mallett later this year. In fact, I'd be surprised if it doesn't happen the way things are going. Mark Dec. 24 and Jan. 1 on your calendar.

Professor Frink (Springfield)

A little off topic here, but I was curious to know what your opinion of pro football focus is. Your blog uses their statistical analysis quite a bit, but personally I find their methods to be very flawed and the conclusions they reach are often misguided as a result. How much stock do you put in their analysis?

Mike Reiss

  (1:09 PM)

Hi Professor. I commend Pro Football Focus for what they are doing. My personal feeling is that I like to do as much of the statistical analysis on my own.

Kyle (Cranston, RI)

Mike, with Vollmer going down for however long, does this significantly diminish our versatility on offense? I really liked Solder in the Alge Crumpler blocking TE type role.

Mike Reiss

  (1:10 PM)

It's a small chink in the armor, Kyle, but I think they'll be fine. They have depth at OT because of BB's smart decisions (drafting Marcus Cannon) and usage of the NFI and PUP lists.

Steve (Virginia)

Hi Mike,I think this week will be tougher than people realize. The Colts still have the ability to play tough, even though their QB situation is a significant detriment. My question is with our lack of a downfield receiving threat, do you think BB may target DeSean Jackson in the offseason with the expectation that there are enough vets in our locker room to police his antics?

Mike Reiss

  (1:11 PM)

Steve, I don't think DeSean Jackson is a Patriot type player.

Rex (Florham Park)

If I had TB 12 as my quaterback I would have won 5 super bowls by now...any doubts about that?

Mike Reiss

  (1:11 PM)

Enough talk, Rex. Enough.

Marcus (Ellington,CT)

Hi Mike, With all due respect for Kevin Faulk and his past contributions, why are the Pats using 5 active roster spots on the RB position when they are clearly thin across the OL and in the secondary ? Also, any idea on the cap implications of cutting Ochocinco loose in the offseason ? Thanks

Mike Reiss

  (1:13 PM)

Marcus, I'd have to look closer at the cap stuff. On Faulk, I view it as a combination of insurance and not having better options available at other positions.

Moe (Braintree, MA)

Hey mike, love your work. I just had a question about the injury report. Exactly how "limited" is a limited participation in practice? Thanks man.

Mike Reiss

  (1:13 PM)

Moe, limited could mean a lot of different things. One play. A lot of plays. That's why reading too much into injury reports is dangerous.

Rick (Providence)

The media trashes the Patriots secondary but I have noticed as the pass rush improved so did the secondary play. We haven't had a strong pass rush in 3 years and our secondary has looked weak in that time span. Do you think if we had a stronger pass rush players like Butler and Merriweather would have looked stronger and not high round pick busts?

Mike Reiss

  (1:15 PM)

Rick, I think a strong pass rush helps anyone on the back end, but Butler and Meriweather had other flaws in their game that would only partially be covered up by a pass rush.

Mike W (Bethlehem, PA)

You've seemed to been correct on a few losses this year. Do you see the Pats losing any of their remaining games?

Mike Reiss

  (1:15 PM)

Was wrong on the last one, though, Mike. Bad pick going with Philly. That team doesn't have much heart. I see the Patriots winning out. No stopping now.

Mike Reiss

  (1:15 PM)

But let me reserve the right to change my mind based on injury or unexpected events...

Mike Reiss

  (1:16 PM)

Let's end it there. Thanks to everyone for chatting. Enjoy the rest of the day. Colleague Chris Forsberg chats tomorrow at noon.