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Mike Reiss

  (11:59 AM)

Just back from locker room. The mood was one in which players knew they had one more work day, then they get to scramble. A lot of guys headed to visit family in their hometowns. Many will travel tonight and then return late Sunday. No practice until Tuesday, but some must be back Monday to lift. Will be back in a few to get the chat started.

bmaddy (RI)

Hey Mike,Does Merriweather has the required skill sets to be a corner in NFL? He is a ball hawk, but his tackling against the run is not perfect. Speaking of corners vs safety, most of the interceptions this year has been from safeties. Aren't corners doing their job as they are supposed to be?

Mike Reiss

  (12:03 PM)

I like him a safety, bmaddy, where he can play more downhill instead of coming in and out of his breaks so often. We saw Meriweather at corner earlier in his career and he didn't seem as decisive in his movements to me. On the second part, I think the CBs have been doing a solid enough job.

Obed (VA)

Given the lack of 3rd down efficiency (Pats are 43/96 in 2009) to the tune of <50%, and the inability to get a consistent run, how likely is it for the patriots to LEGITIMATELY energize the run in order to take pressure off the passing game and make 3-short situations (which are easier to convert) possible against teams in the next coming weeks ( Mia, Indy, Jets, NO) where ball control will be critical to winning?If the Pats can keep the ball away from offenses like the indianapolis peytons, the wildcat happy dolphins (matched up twice in a month) and the I can put up 36 in a half Drew Brees Saints, is it safe to say the keys to success come down to the offense?Defense has been spectacular. As much as people have negatives to say, the group on the defense side of the ball keeps the pats in the game!

Mike Reiss

  (12:04 PM)

I see what you are saying Obed, and I think it will be part of the consideration. When you're playing high-powered offenses like Indy and the Saints, you have to do things to slow the game down. On the defense, I wrote about it Wednesday. Here is the link:http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/news/story?id=4602995

David (Portsmouth, NH)

When the Pats traveled to London there were two roster spots open for the game. I saw that they activated Tate but who was the other? Also what happened to any talks of seeing T. Nunn move up from the practice squad? I think he has the talent but needs the chance to prove himself.

Mike Reiss

  (12:05 PM)

Offensive lineman Mark LeVoir was the other, David. He was the third tackle. Nunn traveled but did not get the call.

Rob (Auburn, MA)

Hey Mike - really enjoy following your blog each day. My question is regarding Brady taking an intentional helmet-to-helmet hit against the Titans. I don't remember his name but it was on the same play as a Brady to Moss TD either late in the 1st or early in the 2nd quarter. With the NFL cracking down why was this blatant hit completely ignored? No one even mentioned it.

Mike Reiss

  (12:06 PM)

Hi Rob, that was safety Chris Hope and he was fined on the hit. I believe it was either $7,500, $10,000 or $15,000, but don't recall off the top of my head.

Russ (Clinton, CT)

Mike, have you heard or figured out anything about Morris/Taylor's timeline? I am wondering what teams they will have to face without a legitimate running attack.

Mike Reiss

  (12:06 PM)

Taylor -- my estimate is late November/early December. Morris -- I'm speculating it's an MCL so I'm thinking mid-to-late November. These are estimates and speculation.

ED (VT)

Hi Mike, Could you please find out for me what the big deal is with the wildcat? I heard somewhere that one extra blocker is used on the line so therefore a hole is left unfilled by the defense? and why don't teams just take a hard hitting safety and smack the opposing teams QB every snap and make them pay for using the wildcat?

Mike Reiss

  (12:08 PM)

The biggest thing with the Wildcat is the numbers game, ED. By taking the QB out of it, you create an extra gap and even the numbers. As for smacking the opposing QB, it's a common question. Often times, the QB isn't even in position to be smacked within the legal framework of the play. Other times, defenses don't want to give up the numbers in the running game by paying attention to the QB.

Chris (Charlottesville, Va)

Rumor has it that Josh Cribbs is very unhappy in Cleveland. With his return skills and playmaking ability he would be a fantastic addition. Do the Pats have any interest in him?

Mike Reiss

  (12:08 PM)

I think a lot of teams would have interest in Cribbs, but I feel certain that the Browns won't move him. He's one of the few assets they have.

AJ (DC)

Mike - Now that you have seen the Pats play both the 3-4 and 4-3 extensively this year, which scheme do you think is a better fit for this team going forward, given the teams we are facing the rest of the year and our personnel. Many thanks and keep up the good work!

Mike Reiss

  (12:09 PM)

Leaving open the possibility for them to be flexible based on that week's game-plan, I'm a 3-4 guy AJ. I think they fit better in the run game out of that alignment.

Chris (Orlando)

Mike, With the failure of Ron Brace to earn a lot of playing time this year, does that factor into the Pats potentially trying a little harder to ink Wilfork to a new deal? If the assumption was that Brace was the heir apparent, but he can't even get onto the field (unlike Pryor who has great energy), then maybe it puts more pressure on the team to get Wilfork back. Even with all of their extra second rounders, I doubt if there is anyone who would be in the draft who could get to Wilfork's level in time to help next season. It might be a tough pill to swallow, but I don't see any real alternatives. What options do you see the team having if Wilfork goes?

Mike Reiss

  (12:11 PM)

I'd say very little, Chris. More than anything, Wilfork's exceptional play and the way he's carried himself -- a true pro -- is the reason to be at the negotiating table right now. I think Brace is going to be fine as long as he remains healthy. Sometimes it takes players a bit longer. I recall Wilfork being eased into the mix. Ty Warren, too.

Paul (Canada)

Hi MikePatriots have been rushing the QB more, but not getting there. They rank 20th in QB sacks. I expected to see Brooks or Thomas deliver more sacks this year. This seems to me like the achilles heel that will expose their secondary this year. They give up a lot of yards on third down.

Mike Reiss

  (12:12 PM)

I think the pressure can be improved, Paul, but I wouldn't look just at sacks. Sometimes they are pressuring by moving the quarterback off his spot, forcing an incompletion. That can be as effective as a sack. I do think they can be better, but I see that part of their game on the uptick, mainly because Tully Banta-Cain and Mike Wright have excelled so much.

Nick Marotta (Montreal)

Hi Mike, at the midway point of the season, what do you consider some of the frist half surprises and first half disappointments thus far. Also what do you expect from this team in the second half of the season? Thanks

Mike Reiss

  (12:14 PM)

Good stuff Nick, and something Tedy Bruschi touches on in today's Bruschi's Breakdown. My top surprises: Brandon McGowan, Tully Banta-Cain, Julian Edelman, Benjamin Watson. Top disappointments: Joey Galloway, Adalius Thomas, Kevin O'Connell.

Mike Reiss

  (12:14 PM)

As for the second part of the season, I think we'll see the Patriots in the mix. Could envision an 11-5, 12-4 type finish.

Matt (Western Mass)

Hey Mike! What is your take on the Patriots offense going into the bye week? It seems that we've got our mojo back. If you look at the stats, we are neck and neck with the Colts and in some areas, better than the Colts as far as offense is concerned. The best passing defense the Colts have faced thus far in the season ranks 16th in the NFL. This gives me alot of confidence that the Pats could put a hurtin on these supposed "powerhouse" teams. Thoughts?

Mike Reiss

  (12:16 PM)

I see improvement Matt, but part of that is tempered by the last two opponents -- both of which were winless. The area that I think they could use improvement is in the running game -- blocking- and running-wise.

Dave (Schenectady)

In your opinion, how much has Darius Butler's performance improved so far this season? How good do you think he can be?

Mike Reiss

  (12:17 PM)

Very impressed with him, Dave. I see him as a future No. 1 corner if he keeps ascending. A steal at No. 41 in the draft in my view. Could have been a first-rounder and think more people would be on to him if his draft status was higher.

Mike Reiss

  (12:17 PM)

On your second question about defensive improvement, Dave, check out that link on the article I wrote Wednesday (included earlier in the chat). It touches on exactly what you are saying.

Brian (Boston)

Mike, would it really be that bad to turn Mayo into a Lawrence Taylor-type OLB and have Guyton man the middle? Mayo has the quickness, instinct, and athleticism. Guyton can make the tackles. Thoughts? Can you ask Tedy?

Mike Reiss

  (12:19 PM)

Tedy will be back chatting next week, Brian, so let's fire it by him then. My thoughts are that Mayo is so valuable in the middle as the guy holding it all together. We know Mayo wouldn't fit at OLB in the 3-4, so if he was to move outside, it would have to be in the 4-3. I'm of the belief that he's a better fit in the middle, playing sideline to sideline.

Joe (VT)

Mike, are the contract extensions of TBC, Aiken, and Kaczur official, done-deals? Is there any chance the contracts are "player options" that they can refuse later? Thanks.

Mike Reiss

  (12:20 PM)

Aiken is official, Kaczur if official, TBC is not yet official. No options on those Joe. Once they sign on the dotted line, it's a done deal.

Mike (MA)

Mike, any of the walking wounded appear ready to come back soon?

Mike Reiss

  (12:21 PM)

My hunch, and it's only a hunch, would be that Matt Light is the closest.

TK (MI)

I heard Pat Chung led the team out of the tunnel in London - do you think that has any meaning at this point? He's looked good out there the past couple games.

Mike Reiss

  (12:21 PM)

I wouldn't read too much into that TK. Chung plays with a lot of passion and emotion, and my sense is that him being the first out of the tunnel was more a reflection of that.

Ben R. (Myrtle Beach, SC)

Do you think that there is stull some un-yet tapped "upside" to Laurence Maroney? Could it just be that he's a victim of an offensive philosophy that never allowed to him to showcase himself? Were we all just hoping for too much when we thought he could be a game changing feature back for us? Thanks Mike!

Mike Reiss

  (12:22 PM)

Part of me does, Ben. I am a big believer that a player's success is contingent on the system he plays in, and sometimes I wonder if Maroney might be a more lethal back elsewhere.

Matt (NC)

Mike, can you speak of the grading system that the Patriots use? Do they give each player a grade after each game? What goes into that? Is it their position coach grading them and giving it to them?

Mike Reiss

  (12:23 PM)

I am not privy to the specifics, Matt, but the first thought that came to mind was offensive linemen. Every block they make is graded by their position coach Dante Scarnecchia and they are assigned a grade based on their percentage of success

Chris W. (Stamford, CT)

Hi Mike. I was hoping you could address some offensive specialist questions, like various injury prognoses (Taylor, Edelman, Morris), the general feeling about Tate's ability, and Maroney's consistency (or his ongoing search for it). While the offense has improved, it has yet to perform very well vs. a top team. Your thoughts?

Mike Reiss

  (12:26 PM)

We've touched on some of the injury stuff earlier in the chat Chris, although I don't think we covered Edelman. It's only a hunch, but I'm thinking mid-to-late November for him. Again, that is speculation. I know it's early but I think Tate can really help this team. Maroney, to me, is a case where he is the best they have with Taylor/Morris out so they should keep harnessing his talents and hoping they emerge. I liked what the offense did against Baltimore, but I also think it's fair to say they haven't truly arrived until we see it against better competition more consistently.

bmaddy (RI)

Mike, Tedy said that Brandon-Tandem are developing to be one of the better safety pairs in NFL. Do you think the opposing team coach has to plan for the safeties in the future?

Mike Reiss

  (12:27 PM)

I know what you are saying, bmaddy, and I wouldn't rule it out. When you play the Ravens, for example, you always have to know where Ed Reed is. Could it be the same for Brandon Meriweather? I think that's a leap, but I wouldn't rule it out. I'd also say that offenses must prepare for McGowan because of all the roles he plays.

MB (Columbus)

Mike, have you asked Brandon Tate about his speed post-injury?

Mike Reiss

  (12:28 PM)

I haven't had a chance to do that, MB.

31781 (MA)

Keep up the good work Mike,Is Mcgowan signed for a one year contract? I am sure that Pats will resign him, if so, what does that mean for Sanders, who took a home discount to stay with us?

Mike Reiss

  (12:28 PM)

McGowan signed a two-year deal. Looks like a great signing for the Pats. They deserved to get dinged for the Joey Galloway mistake. At the same time, it's only fair to praise them for the McGowan signing.

TBfan4life (MA)

Mike,I haven't heard much about Shawn Spring this season. How has he developed in this system?

Mike Reiss

  (12:29 PM)

I think his versatility and sturdy play is an asset, but he hasn't been that No. 1/2a type of corner I thought the Patriots were getting.

Matt G. (Boston)

Your old blog at boston.com had a post yesterday about Mr. Kraft's interest in possibly purchasing a stake in the Liverpool squad in the EPL, but might hesitate because of the lack of salary control. Is there anything to read into that statement, in terms of the Pats (especially thinking about the possibility of an uncapped year coming up)?

Mike Reiss

  (12:30 PM)

That's a really interesting observation, Matt. I hadn't thought of it until you mentioned it. I think Kraft would prefer a cap, for sure. Whether that means there will be a cap, however, I'm not sure we can make that leap.

Matt G. (Boston)

What happens if Watson or Baker gets hurt? The Pats are awfully shallow at TE - are there any Junior Seau-type players out there at that position? Is there anyone already on the team who could double as a TE?

Mike Reiss

  (12:31 PM)

They have Robbie Agnone on the practice squad who would be an option. Otherwise, I think they'd have to sign someone off the street. Don't see anyone on the roster who could do that.

patsfannj (NJ)

I have been following Percy Harvin's career in MN and it looks like they stuck gold with him. Is it true that Pats would have drafted him, if the Viking had passed him over, one pick earlier? It would have definitely solved our 3rd receiver problem.

Mike Reiss

  (12:32 PM)

That was one of the rumors, and I think the Patriots liked him. I haven't confirmed that, however.

Randymossfan (MA)

Mike, is it just me or Randy Moss seems a little slow this season. I am used to watching his leap frog over tow-three defenders and it seems like that vertical jump is missing. Could the age be catching up with him?

Mike Reiss

  (12:33 PM)

I haven't noticed it, Randymossfan. I still think when he wants to turn it on, he can race by defenders with ease. Maybe it hasn't happened as often as we saw it in the 2007 season, but I still think it's there.

Rob N (South Boston, MA)

Why don't we see Ben Watson be more of a factor in the passing game? It seems like when he does run routes he is creating mismatches when he lines up against a linebacker, which can create big pass plays. This is especially true when he lines up next to Moss in 4 wide sets. Moss takes out the safety over the top since he is often double teamed, leaving Watson one on one against the LB. Do you think we can see more of Watson in the absence of a solid 3rd receiver.

Mike Reiss

  (12:35 PM)

Watson has 15 catches for 222 yards and 4 touchdowns. Some of the catches have been fantastic. I think we have seen him as a factor in the passing game, but the way I see it, it's just that Moss and Welker are the go-to guys and they've gotten open. So Brady keeps feeding them.

Bill12 (Kingston, RI)

Mike, I read somewhere that BB is a big fan of Chad Ocho Cinco and it goes both ways. Any chance he will be a patriot anytime soon? We have plenty of 2nd round pick in 2010. Would it be a good idea to trade for him?

Mike Reiss

  (12:36 PM)

At this point, I don't think so Bill12. The trading deadline has passed and I just don't see the Bengals moving him next year either. He's having a really good year (39 catches, 5 TDs).

Fred (Brookline)

Has Bill Bellichick lost confidence in Shawn Spring at corner, or has his snaps been cut simply by matter of circumstance and the emergence of Darius Butler?

Mike Reiss

  (12:37 PM)

Wish I had the answer on that one, Fred. I guess it depends on one's outlook. Springs was a bit off with his technique against the Broncos and we haven't seen much of him since. Butler has been solid in his absence, although it's come against Tennessee and Tampa Bay. The next few weeks should provide more context to that situation.

gopats1981 (MA)

Mike,What do you like and hate so far about 09 pats?

Mike Reiss

  (12:38 PM)

What I like: McGowan as a tone-setter on defense, Wilfork/Warren/Wright/Green filling the Seymour void in a big way, Welker. Areas that could be concerns: Run game, procedure penalties, consistent pressure with four-man rush.

Sam (At Work)

Hey Mike. Questions on receivers - do you have any numbers from Edelman / Tate / Nunn for their combine/ pro day numbers in 40/ shuttle ect..? The reason I ask is that the patriots seem to have a different policy as far as receivers go. With Chad Jackson (highest pick used in recent memory on a WR) being a bust. It seems they have had better luck with less heralded receivers. your thoughts?

Mike Reiss

  (12:39 PM)

Not off the top of the head, Sam. I'd have to look those up. I can say this: Similar to CBs, the Patriots are as interested in change of direction as they are 40 time. It's just as important to get in and out of breaks smoothly as it is to blaze a trail in a straight line.

pats4ever (RI)

Mike,Whats with FS leading the league in interceptions (both 1st and 2nd)? Seems like the corners are not doing their job as they are supposed to be!

Mike Reiss

  (12:40 PM)

New Orleans' Darren Sharper (6) and Buffalo's Jairus Byrd (5) are the NFL leaders. Might be a case where more teams are playing man-to-man, and the safeties have been freed up to make more plays.

Lawfirm1981 (RI)

Mike, do you think that Pat Chung has the physical ability to develop into a player like Polamalu/Reed?

Mike Reiss

  (12:41 PM)

I couldn't say that with authority at this point, Lawfirm. I like the passion with which he plays the game, and the knock on him that he was a "box" safety doesn't seem to fit what I've seen.

Keith_fromTrainingCamp (South Weymouth)

Hey Mike, enjoying your continued great work here at ESPNBoston! Question for you on the next two games. Do you see the Patriots using a lot of sub packages to contain the wildcat and do you think they'll employ the Nickel 3-3-5 defense against Indy as they've done in the past now that we have faster linebackers?

Mike Reiss

  (12:42 PM)

Been thinking a lot about this, Keith, and I think they stay base against the Dolphins. The Dolphins are one of the most physical teams in the league. If they go 3-3-5, I would think the concern would be holding the point.

Adam C (England)

Mike, before the season everyone was saying this was Ben Watson's last year with New England but he is having a good year so what is the situation now?

Mike Reiss

  (12:43 PM)

Summed up, he's either extending his stay in New England, or making himself a lot of money elsewhere. My hunch is that it's the latter.

Pete (Millville MA)

Hi Mike,The Patriots have clearly made a statement both offensively and defensively in the past two games. However, losses to the Jets and the Broncos have drawn uncertainty as to whether or not the Pat's belong amongst the power houses of the league. Given these two thoughts does it seem to you that Belichick is simply pacing his team to peak during playoff time? Or should we continue to question this team's ability until they prove to us that they can beat a team like the Saints or the Colts?Thanks,Pete

Mike Reiss

  (12:44 PM)

I think that's fair Pete. I wouldn't read too much into the last two games. The next 5 should tell us what we need to know. I personally think they'll be in the mix at the end.

John (Boston)

Mike - love the constant coverage - keep up the great work! Given the comments you posted in the 'bag regarding Tate's skill set, it would seem that he and Edelman might play similar roles (slot receiver and returns). How do you see this shaking out with the Pats needing more speed on the outside rather than an addition to the slot?

Mike Reiss

  (12:44 PM)

John, I think Tate has a bit more of a presence as an outside guy if they want to. While I think Edelman can do that too, I think Edelman is a more natural slot guy.

Chris (Charlestown)

Mike, Brady and the offense have had 2 great weeks. Is this a sign of things to come or were they just playing 2 weaker teams? That being said, Brady does look more comfortable and confident in the pocket now.

Mike Reiss

  (12:45 PM)

I think they are improving, but I'm of the thought to wait to make any definitive judgment on that Chris. As Tedy Bruschi said, after the last two weeks, the real games start after the bye.

Adam C (England)

Mike, is Terrence Wheatley that bad or is he simply a victim of a deep secondary?

Mike Reiss

  (12:46 PM)

The ability to recover on a play is a bit of a concern that I think scouts had with Wheatley. But to be honest, Adam, I haven't seen enough to know the answer on this one.

Mike Reiss

  (12:46 PM)

Forced to answer, I think he could help this team if called upon.

patsfaninpa (Pittsburgh, PA)

Hey Mike, what kind of role do you see Pat Chung having in the defense going forward?

Mike Reiss

  (12:47 PM)

I think it will be tailored to each game-plan. Like this past week, I thought Chung played more because the nickel package (5 defensive backs) had three safeties, likely with the Buccaneers' weapons at tight end in mind.

John (Boston)

With Tedy's comments in yesterday's chat regarding veterans assisting with game plans and the turnover the occurred from a leadership perspective on that side of the ball, who do you believe is playing that role this year? Is Mayo seasoned enough? It seems that would be a LB or safety piece of the puzzle rather than line or corner since those positions see more substitutions during the course of a game.

Mike Reiss

  (12:48 PM)

Great question, John. On offense, Brady for sure. On defense, Wilfork/Warren came to mind, but it would seem like they'd have a narrow view based on the position they play.

T-Dawg (Stoneham, MA)

Hi MIke, We'll need a replacement for Kevin Faulk sooner or later, and I wonder if that replacement is already here. Could Maroney handle the third down back role? He runs great in open space (catching quick pass in the flats) , has been a bit better at grinding out short yardage lately, and I've seen him make quick transition from catching to running even though he is not targeted very often. Is there a lack of conifdence in his pass catching, or is there just no faith in his ability ti pickup yardage when you need it?

Mike Reiss

  (12:49 PM)

I don't see it, T-Dawg, because Maroney doesn't seem to have that natural feel for the passing game that Faulk has. He is most dangerous when he gets the ball in space, but that feel, in addition to some inconsistencies in blitz pickup, would make me shy away from that possibility.

Mike Reiss

  (12:50 PM)

Let's go for another five here...

Tyler (Stratham, NH)

Hey Mike, I noticed in the Tennessee game that Butler and Wilhite got the majority of the snaps at CB and versus Tampa they both seemed to be favored. Do you think this is just an instance of Belichick trying to get his young corners experience against sub-par passing attacks or is it a sign that Springs has dropped down the depth chart with Bodden (who I think has provided a physicality we haven't seen at the position in a long time) not far behind?

Mike Reiss

  (12:50 PM)

Don't know on this one, Tyler. Wish I had more.

Rob N (South Boston, MA)

I was concerned to see Moss favoring his left arm in the game vs. the Bucs. Any update on that? It could be a significant loss if he has to miss anytime in the future due to the grueling schedule coming up the next few weeks (vs. Miami, @ Indi, vs. Jets, @ Saints) although I suppose the bye week could help heal some bumps and bruises.

Mike Reiss

  (12:51 PM)

I think he'll be fine, Rob. The bye will help him heal up a bit. He has been pretty banged up.

Kyle (Burlington, VT)

Hey Mike, with the draft picks that the patriots have assembled, do you see them drafting a RB in the near future? It seems they could really use some youth at the position and that Maroney might never be a workhorse back

Mike Reiss

  (12:51 PM)

I do, Kyle. I think adding another layer of youth/speed to that spot would be smart business.

Mile High Pats Fan (Denver, CO)

Have the Patriots given up on many of their trick plays? Brady sells the direct-snap to RB very well, and I also recall a play a few years back where he ended up split wide and was on the receiving end of a fairly long pass. Outside the fake vs. Baltimore, I don't remember much trickery in the offense this year.

Mike Reiss

  (12:52 PM)

I don't think so Mile High. We saw the flea flicker against the Titans. An end-around to Brandon Tate isn't necessarily a trick play, but it is a bit on the unconventional side. Also, if I recall, the first offensive play against the Bucs was a double type of play-action.

Tyler (Stratham, NH)

Hey Mike, which upcoming game against an unbeaten do you see as a bigger challenge/measuring stick for the Patriots...Indy or New Orleans?

Mike Reiss

  (12:53 PM)

Indy. When the games seem even, I pick the one in the conference. Also, a rivalry game.

Rick (Lowell, MA)

Many said at the start of the season that the Pats drafted Brace to replace Wilfork, not immediately but eventually. Many said that they weren't going to pay Wilfork, and hoped Brace would be a cheaper version. With Brace not being a viable replacement (at this point) do you see the Pats working hard on an extension for Vince? Is it possible that they view his position as one of the positions they simply can't allocate a ton of money to? For example, they seem to value safeties more than CB's. Do you think the Pats simply don't value the NT spot as much as the DT, so they have trouble paying Vince, or anyone else at nose?

Mike Reiss

  (12:53 PM)

I think they give it one more shot this week/weekend, Rick, and see if they can hammer it out.

Mike Reiss

  (12:54 PM)

If they don't get it done during the bye, I think both sides will table it to the end of the season.

Tyler (Stratham, NH)

Hey Mike, I was surprised to see how the stats you posted showed the Pats to be one of the more aggressive defenses in the NFL. I feel like that pressure has been seen more in recent weeks with the Pats D posting some great performances (admittedly, against pretty weak offenses). Do you think this added pressure is the reason for these improved performances or is there a more important factor for the Pats' surprisingly good defense this year?

Mike Reiss

  (12:55 PM)

I was surprised at that as well Tyler. I think the stats are a bit skewed because of the last two games. I don't think the pressure, in and of itself, is the reason for the improved performances.

Rick (lowell, ma)

Why is everyone seemingly already accepting losses in the Indy and NO games? I realize they are both very explosive on the offensive side of the ball, but so are the Pats. The Pats seem to have the better defense of the 3 teams, and while those games will likely be tough, it seems many fans and writers are looking at those games like automatic losses. The Pats are a top 5 NFL team right now, and I'm surprised at how many people are seemingly counting the Pats out against the other top 5 teams.

Mike Reiss

  (12:55 PM)

I wouldn't count them out, Rick. This team is tough.

Mike M (Ashland, MA)

Mike,Other teams such as the Giants (Manning) and the Cowboys (Ware) have opted to extend their key players even with the uncertain labor environment. Why haven't the Pats made a move to sign Wilfork? This guy has been a true pro and one of the best NT's in the league.ThanksMike

Mike Reiss

  (12:57 PM)

They are talking, Mike, and that is encouraging to me. I always say negotiations are two-way streets -- team has to give a bit, player has to give a bit. They haven't struck it yet, but I think they're closer now than where they were in the offseason. Not saying it's going to get done, but at least there is some movement.

Charlie (DC)

Like your article today on the young and promising defense. You made the point that the Pats remain competitive during this youth movement. One thing I like to add is that they also manged to stash away some assets for the future by accumulating two extra seconders next year and one extra first rounder the year after. The outlook should make every patriot fan giddy.

Mike Reiss

  (12:57 PM)

Thanks Charlie. Let's end on this one. The Patriots have two extra second-round draft choices in 2010, and the Raiders' first-rounder in 2011.

Mike Reiss

  (12:58 PM)

Thanks to all for chatting. Some great questions as always. Will be back next Thursday -- same time, same place to do it again. Enjoy the bye weekend.