Patriots Could Use Some Extra Motivation

This season has not turned out the way Patriots fans would like it. Tom Brady's injury in the opening game was a shock to everyone and once it was announced that he would be out for the year, the hopes of Patriots personnel, teammates and fans faded. Realistically, how well could Matt Cassel play as starting quarterback of a top-ranked team, especially after never having an NFL start? The second game of the year, a win over Brett Favre and the Jets, provided a spark and increased optimism. Cassel was able to manage the game, tossing a touchdown pass but more importantly protecting the ball and the lead. After receiving praise from coach Bill Belichick and wide receivers Randy Moss and Wes Welker, things appeared to be getting better. It seemed that at least for the moment, Cassel would be a lot more capable than originally believed, and he just may be good enough to guide the team to the playoffs and make a serious run. Then the next week, most of the hopes and dreams of Patriots fans again fell apart as Cassel had a miserable game along with the entire offense and defense. Cassel was responsible for a few turnovers and even when the team maintained possession of the ball, they could not score touchdowns. A couple of field goals along with a late touchdown provided just 13 points but that wasn't the worst part. The usually reliable and stout defense allowed over 200 rushing yards and 200 passing yards in surrendering 38 points to the struggling Dolphins. The Patriots had difficulty in making tackles, let runningbacks run through gaps in the secondary and gave up a few big plays in the passing game. Even running back Ronnie Brown of the Dolphins threw a pass for a touchdown.

After the game, Belichick was harsh on the team, saying there were many problems in that contest and it would take some time to completely fix them. Randy Moss, Matt Cassel, and Rodney Harrison were some of the players who publicly agreed with their coach and admitted there are mistakes that need to be corrected. Right now, the problem isn't Matt Cassel and his capabilities, he will get better over time. The running game and its inconsistencies are much more serious, because the Patriots have established backs in Maroney, Faulk and Jordan. All three had productive seasons last year. Once the Patriots can run, it will open up the passing game for easier completions for Cassel. Right now, setting up third down situations in short yardage and gaining yards on first down is still a little bit of a problem. The defense is further along than they showed in the loss and are actually a consistent unit. No matter how good they or any other defense is, points will be given up due to fatigue and bad field position when the offense can't move the ball. They definitely are motivated to improve with talented players and there will be a more determined performance in the next matchup against the 49ers. Belichick, whether he is liked or hated, is a premier coach and an excellent person at coming up with game strategies and preparation. He will have the team ready for next week. I feel the defense and practice situations are okay right now, but the offense needs to pick up the slack. Cassel had one bad game and two decent ones. If the Patriots can get first downs, the score will be a lot different and I think against the 49ers a victory is possible and likely to occur.

By Chad Fukuoka
ProFootball-fans.com New England Patriots Correspondent