The New England Patriots: A Costly Win
By: Jason Cunningham (Sept. 22, 2003)
The New England Patriots have been decimated
by injuries. Defensive starters Roosevelt Colvin and Ted Washington both are
healing from broken legs. What can Bill Belechick do in order to get the Pats
back in the playoffs?
The Patriots have had a trying season
thus far. The cutting of Lawyer Milloy seemed to cause a stir in the locker
room. The Pats have said that the event was not a distraction but the score
against Buffalo Bills may led you to think otherwise. The Bills thrashed the
Pats in week one. The Patriots have played better in recent weeks, but with
Colvin, Washington, and receiver David Patten status in the air, Belechick and
crew are going to be "miracle workers" to see this season's playoffs.
New England won the game against the Jets,
however three star athletes are possibly out for a while makes this 23-16
victory a costly win. The Pats will probably get the ball into the hands
of receiver, Troy Brown more often. Yet with Patten out Tom Brady needs to
be even more accurate on the short route and may be throwing to the TE to avoid
the pass rush of opposing defenses. On defense, Mike Vrabel may be playing a
bigger role in the rotation. If the Patriots make the playoffs this year,
Bill Belechick should be named "NFL Coach of the Year."
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