The Name on the Front is all that matters

I am one of the fans not over hyping Cam and because of that, people think I don't like Newton. As a running back under center I love Cam. However, just like with Hoyer; I know there are two Cam Newtons. My excitement for signing Cam is the same as it was for Hoyer.

I did my record prediction for the Patriots many weeks ago now. I had the Patriots floor at 7 wins. They're too good to lose any more. My ceiling was 11 wins, not including the playoffs. The only game I had going either way was the Baltimore game, which I have them losing. My ceiling would be different if Cam had signed in March or the first week of April.

I Still have the Patriots winning 10 games. However, I think there are now going to be four instead of one coin flip games. Seattle, KC, and Houston now join Baltimore. I just don't see Newton being familiar enough with the team to beat Seattle and KC. Houston will be in Houston, I don't see the Patriots going down there and winning.

I've given Newton the eye test. I've looked at his stats. I've listened to fans, I've heard their cases. The same case they make for Newton is what I've been making for both Hoyer and Stidham. Which is, "The Patriots don't need an elite quarterback, they need a game manager."

I get why some fans think Stidham or Hoyer will beat out Newton for the Job. Familiarity with the players and knowledge of the playbook and system. The one thing that gave Stidham the advantage over Hoyer, is the one thing that gives him the advantage over Newton. 

That is Both veteran quarterbacks have shown to be two different quarterbacks. The case can be made for both Hoyer and Cam, that they played in dumpster fires; yet still put up decent stats for what they had to work with at various points of their career. I know circumstance can change things; inflating or deflating stats like a colts football; in the middle of a football game. It still doesn't change their inconsistency, especially from the eye test; let alone from a statistical stand point on the surface.

That's what looking at stats from the surface is, it's the same as the eye test. It's when one pulls out the magnifine glass and does a harder look that one gets to core of the evaluation. Most fans only use the eye test and surface stats.

That is why people think Stidham still has a chance. It is why people still think Hoyer has a chance, and it is most definitely why some people think Newton will get cut. I admitted that I don't like the timing of the signing. 

However, sounding like a broken record, we must see who shows up and plays for the Patriots in the preseason. This is why I like the preseason because people who should be locks become bubble players and people who had almost no chance become a part of the team, make the 53 man roster. That's the importance of the preseason. For Patriots fans, we need this quarterback battle, at this critical juncture of team history.

Remember, At the end of the day, the only thing that matters is the name on the front. Most players don't stick around more than three to four years. Hoyer, Newton, and Stidham could all be gone by that time; so it really doesn't make much since to bicker over players.

Former Auburn Tiger Cam Newton warns NFL he is coming for throats

The Patriots signed Cam Newton to a one year contract, to further their 2020 free agent moves. This follows Brady leaving for Tampa & Carolina cutting Newton. Newton joins Brian Hoyer as the only other quarterback with real NFL experience.

NFL.com's Kurt Warner recently wrote the following about Cam Newton. “The good news is, I am a walking example that perception is NOT always reality. I was given two more opportunities — with the New York Giants and Arizona Cardinals — to prove that the overriding perception of me as a player was not accurate. I was able to return to form, playing at a Pro Bowl level and reaching the Super Bowl once more. Knowing Cam’s track record and the competitor that lies within him, I would not be surprised if he once again rose to the top of the league.”

Warner seems to share the settlement of many Patriots fans, especially the tank for Trevor contingent. Maybe Newton is being seen in a bad light or maybe they have 2015 blinding them. We shall see.

As far as Warner goes, Joseph Nocco of Clutch Points wrote the following about him. "Warner not only received a second chance with the Cardinals, as Cam Newton might know, but he ultimately led Arizona to a Super Bowl in the end. Warner was, of course, a league MVP, Super Bowl Champio k9n and Super Bowl MVP with the St. Louis Rams before eventually receiving a shot at redemption with both the Cardinals and Giants, though his stint in New York wasn’t nearly as memorable as his time in the desert."

Warner has played the game, he has had his experiences, so he might know a thing or two about Newton's experience. However, every quarterback is different. Warner found the right situation in Arizona, will this be the same for Newton or will this be like Boomer Esiason in Arizona?

Nocco pointed out that there is a lot of concern with Newton but the Patriots are his best opportunity to turn things around. Newton's contract is worth up to $7.5 million. It's a one year deal with potential to evolve into a career in New England or a paycheck elsewhere.

Tyler Ash of Clutch Points wrote, "Arguably the best player in Carolina’s history, the former No.1 overall pick reached three Pro Bowls, captured the 2011 Rookie of the Year award and earned Most Valuable Player honors in 2015.  Newton produced career-bests in TD passes (35) and passer rating (99.4) in ’15, leading the Panthers to a 15-1 record and an appearance in Super Bowl 50."

One of the things that Newton has going both for and against him is that he is 31. With injuries, he's gonna start taking longer to recover but at 31, he should also be in his prime. Which makes him worth a risk for the price. 

One of the benefits of the Patriots signing Newton is they get a running back who can throw the football. Over his 8 years (playing), Newton has averaged 600 yards a season. That's gonna fit in well for the Patriots and their "Air West Spread" offense. 

The Patriots ranked 29th in calling RPOs because Brady was too slow. Stidham gave them a chance to increase this but the former Panthers and Auburn Tiger gives them a whole new level to run RPOs.

Speaking of Stidham, while himself and Hoyer will compete with Newton. Stidham will most likely spend another year in development while the job goes to Newton. Newton can Show Stidham how to operate RPOs and mobile schemes on an NFL level. If Stidham does start, it probably won't be until after the bye.

So Hoyer will likely be cut unless Newton beats himself out of a job. Hoyer was signed to compete for the job and to mentor Stidham. It's likely, he'll also be tasked with getting Newton up to speed. As we saw with superbowl 53, Hoyer is one of the brightest minds in football and a candidate for a quarterback coaching job someday.

Ash wrote the following about Newton, talking about him not being just handed the starting role. "Newton will be given a chance to compete for the starting quarterback position this summer. Even if he can’t nail down the starting gig, he could be utilized in red zone situations. His dual-threat ability would mix well with the Patriots’ running back corps, headlined by Sony Michel, James White and Rex Burkhead."

Former Giants quarterback and CBS broadcaster Phill Simms also weighted in on Newton. Simms is father of Chris Simms who gave Patriots sophomore quarterback huge praise and annoyed everyone who hadn't seen it was done in college. Simms is also a former superbowl champion.

“I did 80 or more games as a TV announcer so I have watched everything. I could say I know no team in football like I know them, or a coach like I know Bill Belichick and Josh McDaniels. Let’s see. What have the done over the years? They’ve run five different offenses during the years. The offense they ran last year — run the ball, play-action passes, short passes over the middle mostly, tons of screens, throw it to the running back, I just don’t know if Cam Newton can do that. That would be so difficult. You hear the sarcasm, right?“I love this talk of will he fit? What are we fitting? He has all the talent, the same traits as Tom Brady. Will he be the pocket passer and do all of those things? No, because he will roll out and run or throw it or do something different. I think it is a great fit for New England. I think it is a great fit for Cam Newton. I am sure Josh McDaniels is already going, ‘Well, let’s see here, what can I do?’ He loves nothing more than designing new plays for players that come in and again, think about what they have done.“The four wide receivers years ago when they went 16-0, nobody else was doing it. Using the double tight end, they started that with Gronk (Rob Gronkowski) and Aaron Hernandez years ago. They started the slot wide receiver when they got Wes Welker. Then they started let’s throw it to the running back as our main option a lot of times because linebackers, or whoever, a safety can’t cover them once they come out of the backfield. I like their chances of finding ways to use Cam Newton.”

Maybe Simms is right. Maybe the Patriots will line Newton up in the half back position and have Stidham under center. It would be a new way to use Newton, and having two quarterbacks on the field and running options proved successful for the Ravens. 

Ried Goldsmith of Clutch Points wrote, "Cam Newton will get the keys of the offense, assuming he takes down QB competition in rising sophomore gunslinger Jarrett Stidham, and get a chance to work with Josh McDaniels, one of the most widely acclaimed offensive coordinators in the NFL."

The reason why people keep saying if with Cam is because he has been inconsistent. He has had David Funchess, Kelvin Benjamin, Brandon Lafell, DeAngelo Williams, Johnathan Stewart, Ed McCaffrey, Greg Olsen, and Steven Smith and yet he was only able to produce three winning seasons in 2013, 2015 which he won MVP, and 2017.

Now before everyone rights Stidham off that he was messing up, Jeff Howe of the athletic touched on Stidham.

“A source also implied the signing of Newton has nothing to do with Stidham’s performance. Considering the Patriots just conducted a virtual offseason workout program without any official on-field work, that rationale checks out." 

Devin McCourty also dropped a statement on the newest Patriot. "I would think adding him to our quarterback room with [Brian] Hoyer. You have veterans in there. You have young guys in there. I think it’ll give us a really good chance to be good at that position. It’s always great to have a bunch of good players, and adding to that.”

Back in 2017 Mike Reiss spoke with Belichick about Newton. Bill had the following to say, “When you’re talking about mobile quarterbacks, guys that are tough to handle, tackle, can throw, run, make good decisions — I mean, I would put Newton at the top the list,” the Patriots coach said.“Not saying that there aren’t a lot of other good players that do that, but I would say, of all the guys we play or have played recently in the last couple of years, he’s the hardest guy to deal with. He makes good decisions, he can run, he’s strong, he’s hard to tackle. He can do a lot of different things, beat you in a lot of different ways. We saw that in the game down there in ’13, so I would put him at the top of the list. Not saying the other guys aren’t a problem, because they are, but he’s public enemy No. 1.”

The Patriots didn't show much interest this offseason in Newton. Bringing Newton in now puts him behind all of the quarterbacks on the roster with little over a month before the first preseason game. He's got a lot of catching up to do. Dont expect a 100% new playbook. The Patriots will adapt it but it will be 66% of Brady's, so they don't have to teach 52 men a new playbook.

One of the suspected reasons for bringing in Newton now is because the team just lost a third round draft pick for spy Gate 2.0.Adam Schefter tweeted back on June 28 that the signing could make up for the fine.

Per Schefter "This is very New England: Now if Cam Newton plays well in 2020, and leaves as a free agent, the Patriots could get back a compensatory 2022 third-round pick to help make up for 2021 third-round pick the NFL is taking away from New England for its videotape violation."

There is a lot of potential upside for the Patriots but there's no Guarantee that Newton returns to the high levels of play that his fans have come to expect, with that the Patriots will be cautious with Newton, as Dijo Songco of Clutch Points notes.

"It seems that Cam Newton still has a lot to prove if he wants to take the starting job for the New England Patriots.

As per The Athletic, Newton isn’t guaranteed the starting job and will need to impress come training camp to fill in Tom Brady’s massive shoes."

No matter how you feel about Newton. Regardless if you like the signing or the timing of it, all we can do is wait to see which player shows up for the Patriots. There are two Cams, regular Cam which is a running back with the quarterback ability of Brian Hoyer, and SuperCam which is an elite NFL quarterback capable of 11 and 12 win seasons. We won't know who the Patriots signed for a few weeks.

Cam made sure to let people know he was ready as he told the entire NFL that he was "coming for their throats".

Understanding The Newton Signing and the battle with Hoyer

I've been wracking my head trying to figure out why the Patriots signed 31 year old Cam Newton just before July first. Newton has injury history, the veteran minimum was correct but the amount of incentives are too much.

Out of the eight years Newton started plus two games of 2019, Newton has thrown 108 interceptions, fumbled 55 times and has 5 seasons where he didnt throw a 60%completion percentage. In fact those five years combined he has a 57.6 percent of his passes.

Newton is the most athletic quarterback the Patriots have had in a long time but he's inconsistent. Newton's career comp percentage is only 59.6% and he only has 3 seasons over 60% completions.

There are two Cam Newtons, Super Cam and Cam.

Super Cam has three Winning seasons, with a recond of 38-10 and a Comp percentage of 60.2%. Over that span he's thrown 81 touchdowns, 39 Interceptions; rushed for 1975 yards with 22 touchdowns and 19 fumbles. This is the Cam Newton that won 15 games in 2015 and won the MVP.

Regular old Cam has five Losing seasons, with a record of 30-43-1. He has a comp percentage of 59.4%. This Newton has thrown 101 touchdowns and 68 Interceptions. He's also rushed for 2833 yards and 36 touchdowns with 36 fumbles.

Super cam averages 12 wins, 27 Touchdowns, 13 Interceptions, 650+ rushing yards rushing, 7 rushing touchdowns and 6 fumbles.

Regular Cam averages 6 wins, 20 touchdowns 13 Interceptions, 550+ rushing yards, 7 rushing Touchdowns, and 7 fumbles.

Now there's no guarantee Newton makes the roster, especially if regular Cam shows up. Hoyer can beat out regular Cam, mainly due to turnovers.

If Cam plays at SuperCam levels and I don't mean the 2015 MVP year but his three winning seasons as a whole, the Patriots will sit and develop Stidham like originally planned. Then if he walks in 2021, they can get a compensation pick.

Since Hoyer is Cam's main competition I am going to show Hoyer as a whole and his Time between 2014 to 2015, although his 2013 stats should be included.

Hoyer has a record of 16 and 22 as a starter. He has completed 59.1% of his passes for 52 touchdowns and 32 Interceptions. He also rushed for 115 yards and 2 touchdowns. He has fumbled 19 times.He was also largely responsible for the Patriots 2018 superbowl victory.

Between 2014 and 2015 Hoyer played in 26 games and started 22. Hoyer had a record over that span of 12 and 10. Over that time, Hoyer completed 58% of his passes, throwing for 31 Touchdowns and 20 Interceptions with 83 rushing yards and 10 fumbles.

With the two dumpster fires of Cleveland and Houston, Hoyer averaged 6 wins, 16.5 touchdowns and 10 Interceptions, with 41.5 rushing yards and 5 fumbles. (Again, his 3 2013 games should be included, which would make Hoyer a .500 quarterback who averaged 20 touchdowns and 12 Interceptions.)

While Hoyer has played for 11 seasons, he's only started 38 games which is equal to 2 and 1/3 years and his passing stats are truly comparable to Newton's 5 non winning seasons. 

Strictly as a quarterback and not as a runner, Hoyer at his best physically is almost as good as Newton's average play but Hoyer doesn't turn the ball over as much. 

Hoyer also doesn't have the injury worries of Newton. What Newton Has that Hoyer doesn't have is the ability to run. However, Newton also is more prone to turnovers and injuries.

As stated there is no guarantee Cam makes the roster. However, why he was signed now makes sense. It also makes sense why the Patriots gave Hoyer the chance to compete, why he could start until at least the bye; and How Newton could still get beat out by Hoyer.

From fines to signings, The Patriots are giving away money.

June 28th was a Busy day for the New England Patriots. Who added to their roster and received punishment for something that The Kraft family should have been sole responsible for.

To start the Patriots lost their 2021 3rd round draft pick and $1.1 million dollars for video taping the bengals back in December. The Patriots cooperated with the NFL, complying with everything they asked. 

It was clear that the football operations had nothing to do with a media Department filming. The draft pick fining was a little hard. The NFL delayed this as they tried a witch hunt and could found no evidence of wrong doing from anyone who has anything to do with the football side of the Patriots operations.

Clutch Points Marty Fenn wrote an article detailing the Ins and outs of the entire situation. Marty reported the punishment for the Patriots media side of the organization.

"Additionally, the Patriots’ film crew will not be allowed to film games during the upcoming season," Wrote Fenn.

This won't hurt the Patriots with the expected comp picks coming. Nobody cares if they cannot film anything.

Back on May 31st, I released an article titled "Cam Newton: Why it's not ridiculous the former NFL MVP is still a free agent." In the Article, I went over Newton's career and explained why he would be a bad fit for the Patriots, and why He was still a free agent. I'll leave that link below.

According to Jack Baer the Patriots are investing money they don't have available yet.  The Patriots only had approximately $650,000 before signing the former Carolina Panthers' quarterback to a one year contract. 

Baer wrote, "The deal will be worth up to $7.5 million, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport."  That's a lot of money for a guy who should be brought in for the veteran minimum. Granted it's a lot of incentives but they don't have the money without the incentives.

Newton is expected to enter a three way battle for the starting position. This furthers the chances that J'Mar Smith and Brian (Hoyer Clone) Lewerke are fighting for the practice squad. 

Marty Fenn of Clutch Points talked about the Newton signing and said that he was signed for his experience and physical abilities. 

Marty also said, "Newton’s health issues also seemed to loom large. The 31-year-old had shoulder surgery at the end of the 2018 season, and a Lisfranc injury ended his 2019 campaign after just two games."

If Cam can make the roster, the game against Denver is going to be the Patriots punching the Broncos in the mouth. As Clutch Points Hunter Noll shared a Tweet of the Broncos taunting Newton.

Now as I stated previously, I did not think Newton signing with the Patriots would be a good thing. Shane Mickle of Clutch Points doesn't think so either. For starters, he calls Newton an injury prone turn over machine.

"In 124 starts during Newton’s career, he has 108 interceptions, which isn’t a terrible number, but there is too often where Belichick is going to be left holding his breath. When he is running the ball, he has had 55 fumbles, another number that has to be a concern."

"The one thing that can’t be ignored with Newton is his injury history..." "Being a mobile quarterback that is always the concern that one hit could knock him out for the season," wrote Mickle.

For all that's counting, excluding 2019; that's 20 turnovers a season. The only way the Patriots could've done worse would've been to sign Jameis Winston. In fact it was Winston's that turned people off.

While I'll give Cam a chance, which is more than people who claim to be Patriots' fans are giving Stidham and Hoyer; here's why I don't think he'll be a good fit in short order.

First, his winning percentage. In the eight seasons Newton's played, Majority of his wins came in three seasons, and he's never produced more than three winning seasons. Take away those seasons and he has a losing record.

Second, his accuracy and the fact that he's only completed 60% or higher three times in his career. Minus those three seasons, his career competition percentage drops to 57.6. Plus the fact that he's never gone a year without throwing double digit interceptions. Lastly, as Mickle touch upon, Newton's injuries. 

I had no clue about Cam's fumble problem. I always wanted former Seahawks and Chiefs quarterback Dave Kreig to play for the Patriots, guess this is the closest I'll ever get. Kreig unfortunately also had a fumble problem.

Newton had one good season, the guy has been a good quarterback but as a first round draft pick, he has been a disappointment. He's not as bad as Winston but He's played as if he was from the same round value as Stidham. 

Vlogger Patriots Global pointed out with the type of contract Newton has that it's not a guarantee that Newton gets the starting job or makes the roster. However, it still doesnt look good for Stidham.

What all this means is Stidham probably sits and Hoyer and Newton battle out for the starting spot with loser going home like Tebow.

DPN Sports Talk's Ray Rauth is going to talk about this more in depth on sportscastr.com. I will be tuning in and I suggest the rest of you all do as well. Ray will hopefully answer the red flags and explain why even with the concerns, that Newton is a good fit. He'll also address the bogus penalty imposed on the football team. 

Check out my previous article:

http://vicariouslypatriots.blogspot.com/2020/05/cam-newton-why-its-not-ridiculous.html

Three guys that could be on the chopping block in New England

At least thirty six players on the Patriots ninety man roster are going to find themselves either on the practice squad or cut. Musket Fire's Patrick Morgan stated three players he believes are candidates for getting the axe. 

"Derek Rivers was supposed to be the top draft pick of the class, checking in as Belichick’s first selection that year at No. 83 overall in the third round," according to Morgan.

Rivers was expected to be the guy to replace Trey Flowers. However, Rivers cannot stay healthy and with how the Patriots build and rotate guys; Rivers has not had the production expected. Over his career, he as played in six games. He has recorded 2 solo tackles and 1 sack. 

Rivers is on the books to make $3.3 Million. Being that the Patriots have several players that can do what he can and the Patriots running a base nickel, the team might be better off cutting him to make way for a defensive back.

Beau Allen just signed a contract for $7 million plus. However, he will have competition and just like Rivers; the Patriots maybe better off letting him walk.

"Allen is the natural replacement for Danny Shelton, who signed with the Lions in free agency..." "but the Patriots have shown a ruthless tendency to cut veterans before they’ve ever played a regular season snap before..." said Morgan

If Allen plays for the Patriots, this will be his third team in seven seasons. Allen has played in 90 games but only started 16. Over his career, he has 117 tackles, 15 quarterback hits and 2.5 sacks. 

That equals approximately 19 tackles and 2 quarterback hits a season. The Patriots had issues stopping the run the past few seasons, especially in 2019. Having a DT who will stop little over 1 carry a game is not ideal. Granted he could plug holes and allow for others to make plays.

The Patriots are probably going to play Joe Thuney on the Tag, which means cutting Allen for his cap space makes sense. Allen my end up being a victim of circumstance.

The last guy Patrtick Morgan listed is a guy I have mentioned several times. That is Rex Burkhead. My honest opinion with Burkhead is that before the Patriots cut him, they will try to trade him to Tampa Bay.

Burkhead is a weapon. However, the Patriots have Damien Harris, who is cheaper and can fill the powerback role. Nobody knows how good his hands are. The Patriots also have James White, who can catch better, and is a dangerous runner. Then the Patriots have Brandon Bolden who is a better special teama player, that can do everything else Burkhead can do at a lower level.

Burkhead has struggled to stay healthy during his time in New England. Burkhead has only played in 31 regular season games as a Patriot out of 48. Starting 8 of them. Burkhead Is a weapon that cannot stay healthy.

Patrick Morgan makes the case for why Burkhead won't be part of the 2020 Patriots. "Rex Burkhead is in the final year of a three-season deal that’s set to pay him nearly $10 million. In terms of total contract value, only 14 players are set to earn more over the span of their deals than Burkhead..."

There are other names to watch, Brandon Bolden, Ryan Izzo, Matt Lacosse, Muhamad Sanu, Marquis Lee, Yodny Cajuste, Hjalte Froholdt, Dedric Wise, and so on.  The Patriots have talent and with a shortened off season and virtual workouts, nobody knows who's safe and who's truly in danger. That's if there is a 2020 NFL season.

Happy Days are here again

It's been a while since Cassius Marsh played for the Patriots. Most fans probably don't even remember who he was. For those that have forgotten him, let me remind you of how he felt about playing in New England.

“They don’t have fun there, There’s nothing fun about it. There’s nothing happy about it. I didn’t enjoy any of my time there, you know what I’m saying? It made me, for the first time in my life, think about not playing football because I hated it that much.” Marsh said that back in 2018.

Eagles Lane Johnson, who won the superbowl with Legarrette Blount and Chris Long came out after the superbowl and said, "Obviously, do they win? Hell yes, they win. They've won for a long time. Do I think people enjoy and can say, 'I had a lot of fun playing there?' No, I don't. That's just the God's honest truth."

Danny Amendola came out and said there were things he didn't like about playing in New England but He won rings which makes up for it. Nate Solder said the Patriots operated like a business and it was harsh but admitted he was glad he played for the Patriots. While both criticized the Patriots,  they thanked the organization.

Patriots Linebacker Dont'a Hightower said, “I mean, to each his own. I don’t really have anything to say to them. I mean, guys here, I know – I mean, it’s not for everybody. It’s definitely harder than most places, but I mean, that’s part of it. A lot of guys know that when they come here.

But, I mean, in the locker room, it’s not Bill’s [Belichick] job to make this fun and this atmosphere fun; it’s the guys around it. Every guy in that locker room, I love like a brother. We have fun, whether it’s out here struggling together – blood, sweat, and tears – or we’re back in the locker room or we’re hanging out outside of football. So, there’s a time and place for everything, but we know whenever we walk through the building, it’s time to work.’’

Many Patriots writers and bloggers also came out against these no fun comments. Some of their responses were pretty savage, calling them nobodys and hacks.

Early in 2020 Rob Gronkowski was interviewed and said "Coach (Belichick) says it all the time. He always says it -- that it's not an easy place to play..." That should not come as a shocker to anyone.

Gronk went on to say, "They are the ones who drafted me and gave me my first opportunities ever in the NFL and I'm very thankful for those opportunities. And I'm not going to sit here and say it's an easy organization to play for, and I've also never played for another organization. I haven't even been down to Tampa yet, so I'm not even sure what to expect. But I know, that the New England Patriots, it's not the easiest place to play, but it gets you right, it gets you mentally and physically right, and what I've learned there I'm definitely going to take it with me with my future and whatever I have present to this day."

It came out this week that Tom Brady started talking about playing in New England, even if it was indirectly. Brady's throwing coach Tom House spoke to GQ sports.

“I think the most fun texts we’ve had is when Gronk signed. Tom texted me and said, ‘Football’s fun again.' "

"Football's fun again"?!? So what, Brady wasn't having fun in New England? Obviously,  Brady wasn't liking the switch to a defense lead, run first offense. The Patriots couldn't afford to bring in top tier pass catchers. We all remember Brady's tantrum after a victory midway through the 2019 season.

The Patriots treat the organization like a business, players like the corporate employees they are and playing like a job. That hasn't changed since Belichick took over. It's part of the Patriots way. One must ask was Tom not Happy because the offense didnt completely revolve around him any longer, or was Tom upset that he had to actually put in the work and carry the his weight after twenty years?

Look, I appreciate everything Tom Has done for the Patriots, I think everyone who is a Patriots fan has to. However, Brady is no longer a Patriot, He is a Buccaneer until he retires. 

There was an article that asked if Tom would be vilified by Patriots nation. The truth of the matter is that depends on Tom. There have been reports that the world is going to see the real Tom Brady. If he comes out bashing the Patriots, bashing Belichick, bashing the Patriots Way and his time in New England; than Brady will vilify himself. 

For now Brady has moved on but will be missed, and will be welcomed into the Patriots hall one day. Only Brady can change that. It all depends on his true character.

Patriots Nation stop counting your eggs before they hatch

A lot of people are basing Jarrett Stidham off of his first year stats and saying he is going to be a bust. That the Patriots need to either sign Kaepernick or Newton, or Tank for Lawrence or Fields. 

Stidham went completed 2 of 4 passes for 14 yards and a pick 6. He is also credited with 2 rushed for -2 yards. Not idea but seeing as he barely saw the field, not bad either.

Check out these first year stats of a Patriots franchise quarterback's backup. 1 out of 3 passes completed for 6 yards and 0 touchdowns. 36 rushes for 43 yards and 1 catch for 23 yards. 

Both stats came from guys who weren't selected in the the first three rounds. Neither looks impressive. Admit, those of you who don't want Stidham, wouldn't take the other quarterback either.

How about an undrafted Cowboys quarterback who in his first two seasons, only stats were 2 carries for -2 yards? That Cowboys quarterback went on to start 127 games for them and set multiple team records. His Name was Tony Romo.

Romo who beat out the Patriots former franchise quarterback Drew Bledsoe. The Same Drew Bledsoe who lost his job to the sixth round quarterback that I showed the stats for above.

For everyone of you that want to get rid of Jarrett Stidham based on his 2019 stats, you would've gotten rid of Tom Brady for his 2000 stats and Romo for his lack of stats in 2004 and 2005.

The point I am getting at is like many before them, Brady and Romo both showed that they were NFL starting material when given the opportunity. Granted Both guys had a franchise quarterback waiting to take back the job but Hoyer is one of the most intelligent quarterbacks in the NFL. Do not for one second think he doesn't want to start for the Patriots. Stidham has pressure to perform.

Give Stidham a chance to prove himself and stop counting your chickens before they hatch.

The Patriots will open up more of their RPO schemes with Stidham

For those that haven't read my article on the Patriots system, go check it out. The Short is the Patriots offensive system is a hybrid of three offenses. The west coast, the air raid, and the spread. Thus the name the "Air West Spread".

As fans of the Patriots know the key features of the Patriots offense is hitting the slot receivers, tight ends, and receiving backs as much as possible; as fast as possible. By hitting quick passes to all three sections (low-med-high) of the field.

The one aspect of the Patriots system not seen too often is having a quarterback with the ability and instincts to pull the ball down and run with it. That's not Tom Brady. Tom was also not the best to throw on the run. While Tom ran the offense almost perfectly, The Patriots playbook was designed for a mobile or dual threat quarterback.

When it came to running RPOs in 2019, the Patriots ranked 29th, only calling them 1.7 percent of all offensive plays.

According to PFF, The Patriots averaged 4.2 yards per rush (tied for 27th) and a 75.0 passer rating (28th) on run-pass options in 2019. Granted the Patriots were dealing with injuries and a slow 42 year old quarterback.

According to CLNS's Evan Lazar, "Stidham’s Auburn offenses ran RPOs on 26.4 percent of his snaps in his two seasons as the starter, with the Pats QB averaging 7.0 yards per attempt, tied for 16th among 33 qualified quarterbacks"

I assure anyone reading this, RPOs have been part of the Patriots playbook but with Brady's lack of Mobility they were not called. 

One of the areas that Stidham needed work on was his release timing. If he cannot get the ball out quicker, the Patriots will not be successful on calling RPOs with him either.

Lazar continued, " Although Stidham doesn’t have elite mobility, he’ll take off if the opportunity presents itself and has similar speed to a Patrick Mahomes or Baker Mayfield, who also run RPOs very effectively.,

The Patriots going forward are not going to be a complete doppelganger of the offenses we have seen with Tom Brady. The Patriots are going to make adjustments and open the playbook up, to make it better suited for Stidham. 

What that means for fans of the Patriots is that, the quarterback may have 400-500 yards rushing a season. It should also mean more gimmicky plays. The classic drop back will be the bread and butter of any team but now the Patriots with Stidham have a mobile quarterback and can start enjoying the main course too.

New England Patriots' Biggest Roster Need Heading Into the 2020 Season

Joseph Nocco of Clutch Points wrote an article about the Patriots biggest team need, where he went off about how the Patriots need to bring in one of the two remaining big name, overpriced quarterbacks sitting on free agency.

Joseph wrote, "The New England Patriots are about to enter into a whole new era for the first time in 20 years. With future Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback now officially a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Patriots will have a new starting signal-caller under center for the first since all the way back in 2001.

With the unproven Stidham only backed-up by the aforementioned Hoyer, who has only proven that he is not at the level of a starting NFL quarterback..."

Yes, The Patriots are entering 2020 with a second year quarterback who sat one full year behind Tom Brady and got to learn from arguably the greatest quarterback in league history. Stidham who showed promise in the 2019 preseason and got to spend majority of the regular season practicing with the first string against the first string defense.

The Patriots also have journeyman quarterback Brian Hoyer who looked decent in his time as starter in Cleveland and Houston but has bounced around dumpster fires never really playing for a real contender. Hoyer knows the Patriots playbook and system. He had a lot of experience and may be the biggest factor in why the Patriots won superbowl 53. He is a very intelligent game manager, who doesn't make a lot of mistakes.

On the free agent market is Cam Newton, a former first round quarterback who has only had 3 winning seasons in his NFL career and only looked like a first round quarterback once, the year he took the Panthers to the superbowl and lost to the Denver defense.

The other big name on the free agency market is Colin Kaepernick. A player who would've been my pick for Tom Brady's backup in 2017. A player who has been out of the NFL since 2016. It's been approximately 1270 days since Kaepernick last played an NFL game or took an NFL snap. 

There is about a month before teams are supposed to meet for preseason camps. Neither quarterback knows the Patriots' playbook or has any chemistry with anyone on the team. Neither quarterback is also expected to play for a veteran minimum salary. 

Now if you want to know more reasons why I believe these two are not fits please check out my previous articles on both free agents. However, just off the three reasons I listed, is experience enough of an upside to bring in either quarterback at this point and time?

Sure Newton and Kaepernick have played in good offenses with good coordinators who used them to the best of their abilities and skill sets to reach a superbowl. However, are they as intelligent as Hoyer who is just as experienced if not more so from bouncing from the Patriots to dumpster fire to dumpster fire and back?

Do you think that with Josh McDaniels as the Coordinator and with Belichick's defensive mind and with Hoyer's full knowledge of the Patriots system and players, that bringing in two new veterans, inexperienced in the Patriots system and Culture would be better? 

I just don't see it. Maybe I am blind but the Patriots would be better off saving money and tanking for Trevor, than signing either veteran quarterback.

How patient will Bill Belichick be if Jarrett Stidham struggles?

Patriots fans are split on who should start between Brian Hoyer and Jarrett Stidham. Reason being experience. Hoyer has been around the league and while not the most gifted athlete, he as a plethora of knowledge. Stidham has physical gifts but no NFL experience and would be fed to the wolves.

Over the first five games the Patriots host Miami, travel to seattle, return home for the Raiders and then travel to KC before hosting the Broncos. Over this span, I have the Patriots going 3-2 with losses to Seattle and KC. For these games, It would be wise for the Patriots to start Hoyer and let Stidham play in situations to build up confidence and continue development.

Stidham beat out Hoyer last year but it was close and it wasn't for the starting job. Belichick would've kept Hoyer if they were batting for the number one position. Even Ninkovich, who knows Belichick believes Hoyer will start. 

This is what Ninkovich said, “If you have a veteran quarterback who has been in the system, understands what to expect, what an NFL season is like … you’re gonna want to go with a guy who has the veteran leadership (and) also has what it takes to be in that building. Look, when you’re a second-year player, you really don’t realize what a season’s like as a starter. You don’t understand what it’s going to take, and not having an offseason does not help. So, Brian Hoyer will be the starter Week 1.”

It makes perfect since and it doesn't mean Hoyer starts week 17, it just means you're continuing the development of Stidham, while giving your team the best chance to win early.

Stidham had a bad 2018 at Auburn and there were a few areas in need of development heading into the NFL. Stidham's going to make mistakes. Scarnecchia said that the other day, when he said the young quarterback was inexperienced but more athletic than Brady. 

Patrick Morgan of Musket Fire touched on the subject of who should start and said this, "If they (New England) had torn everything down and traded away their best players (and some of their older players) for developmental projects and draft prospects, then maybe you could make the argument that Belichick was committed to “tanking” or building for the future."

What Morgan is getting at is everything is pointing to the fact that Belichick wants to win. There's no evidence to say the contrary.

After the Broncos, the Patriots have a bye week. If the Patriots want to start Hoyer week one and then sit him later in the year, this is the perfect time to do so. The two toughest games are in the books. 

The Patriots host the 49ers after the bye. This would be a chance for Stidham to show Patriots Nation that HE, not Jimmy was meant to be the heir to the Patriots Kinddom.

The Patriots then travel to Buffalo and then New Jersey to face the Jets. Then they return home for Lamar Jackson and the Ravens before traveling to Houston.

Over these five games, I have stated the Patriots will go 1 and 4. While I think the Ravens game can go either way, I only have them beating the Jets. That puts the Patriots at 4 and 6. The Patriots still have a dominant defense and I think the games will be close. 

The Patriots will host the Cardinals, travel to face the Chargers and Rams, then travel to Miami before hosting Buffalo and the Jets. Regardless of who's starting these last six, I have said and I still believe the Patriots will run the gauntlet and win all six. If Stidham is starting, I believe barring injuries; that he can pull that off.

Remember the NFL has added a third wild card team. Thus 10-6 could be good enough for Belichick to get into the Patriots. 

There's a lot of variables this year in New England. It all depends on how well Stidham does competing for the starting job and if he suffers a sophomore slump. On how much Belichick wants to protect Stidham, where he thinks he's at in development and how well Hoyer plays.  

I believe Stidham can lead the Patriots to a 10-6 record but I also think Hoyer, with this team is a good enough game manager to produce a superbowl birth. There is just too much uncertainty surrounding the Patriots at this moment in time.

Covid crashes the NFL Hall of Fame celebrations

Covid is standing between the NFL and the Hall of Fame. The US has had 22 states with spikes in cases as they reopen. Thus the NFL canceled the August 6th preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and The Dallas Cowboys. Fans of the 70s were looking forward to it.

With covid expected to be an uninvited guest at the Hall of Fame ceremony on August 8th, the NFL has postponed that until further notice as well.

Adam Schefter tweeted "The Cowboys and Steelers, who were scheduled to play in this year’s preseason opener, now are expected to play in the 2021 Hall of Fame game next summer, per sources. The HOF enshrinement ceremony also is expected to be held then."

On June 20th, NFL doctor, Dr. Mayer told players to stop working out until called to report to organized team training. This was after several teams had players and other personnel contract the virus. Players have ignored this, most notably Tom Brady.

On June 18th, Dr. Fauci a leading specialist on the coronavirus told the NFL they might not have a season. In which the NFL responded by basically saying he didn't know what he was talking about.

The canceling of the Hall of Fame is just another step closer to not having football in 2020. As I previously stated, with players not caring about the virus, the NFL might have to have players sign waivers, and then still play with scabs to fill rosters. It's not ideal but it may be needed. This story is sure to continue.

What the Patriots have in their backfield and the difference between HB and H-Back.

The half back (HB) is the traditional running back in today's NFL. This is the position normally responsible for carrying the ball. The position is also known as tail, horse/power, or scat back. Currently the Patriots have six. Michel, Burkhead, White, Bolden, Harris is more that powerback and Taylor is a traditional scatback.

Just about everyone knows this position, just like everyone knows the fullback position (Jakob Johnson); however it gets confused with the H-Back position.

The H-Back is a hybrid position. It is a fullback and tight end rolled into one. About forty years ago, John Riggins played the role in Washington; thirty years ago it was Keith Byars in Philadelphia. Back then fullbacks and H-Backs were ball carriers instead of the traditional Tom Rathman style blocker were used to. 

The way the colts have used tight ends in the backfield over the last twenty years is the closest example of the modern H-Back.

The H-Back would normally line up behind the guard but in front of the Halfback instead of directly behind the quarterback and center. Like in the off I formation. While they can line up in the traditional fullback spot, they are more versatile and not limited to.

In today's NFL, they also take on the role of the Wing back, which line up behind and sometimes just to the outside of the tight end. The Patriots are used to their move tight ends filling the wing back role when not lining up in the slot or out wide.

While in yesteryear the fullbacks, H-Backs, and wing backs carried the ball; very few today still do. However, the fullback is making a return in the passing game. With H-Backs being more versatile due to athleticism, speed and size, Teams that employ a H-Back are going to be a force to reckon with.

Currently the Patriots have Dan Vitale and Dalton Keene whom both can play the position. Vitale is listed as a fullback but his skill set are more suited for this position.

Having H-backs instead of the traditional fullback will allow Josh McDaniels to add flavors other than vanilla to the Patriots offense. With Keene being a lock, the Patriots may decide to keep Johnson as Keene can also play the move tight end like old Aaron Hernandez.

 

The Rainbow Warriors Are ready to play some D-1 College Ball.

The Rainbow Warriors will get to wage war on the football field come late July. Large part in thanks to the NCAA College Football Oversight Committee.

Dennis Dodd of CBS reported, "The committee recommended that coaches begin interacting with players on July 13 with training camp starting on Aug. 7. Those dates will each be pushed up a week for the handful of teams competing in Week 0."

Now the current season is expected to end December 5th but the NCAA rules committee could allow the season to end in the middle of January, instead of playing a shortened season.

Currently the NCAA has a six games being listed to kick off on August 29th. Most importantly when Hawaii hosts Arizona. 

Not that it matters to Rainbow Warrior fans due to NCAA rules on bowl games by conference but the national championship game is set to be played on January 11th, 2021.

The September 19th, game where Hawaii goes Duck hunting in Oregon is back on. That will be the Rainbow Warriors real chance to show the NCAA why the warriors from Hawaii deserve to be allowed a real opportunity to finally start competing for a playoff birth. For now Warriors we're on to Arizona.

Will Canada allow The Toronto Blue Jays to return home?

Canada's only baseball team currently cannot return home, due to policy in place thanks to covid. The Blue Jays are begging to be allowed to play at Sky Dome.

Canada Public Health Agency spokeswoman Anna Maddison told Rob Gillies of The Associated Press. "The resumption of activities in Canada must be undertaken in adherence to Canada's plan to mitigate the importation and spread of COVID-19. The Public Health Agency of Canada has received, and is currently assessing, a restart plan from Major League Baseball."

In order for the Blue Jays to make their spring migration back to Canada from Florida, the team needs permission of the Canadian province of Ontario. Otherwise, they have to stop in Buffalo; although Frontier Field in Rochester, NY would be a better destination.

It was reported on the 24th, by the score that members of Canada's beloved Toronto Blue Jays contracted the virus. More probable than not from being forced to stay in the republican policy ran state of Florida, A state that would be better off with Justin Trudeau as it's leader.

Canada is wise to keep the borders closed to the US with President Trump and the GOP treating the virus like a hoax or common cold. Currently, the United States is seeing a spike in 22 states. However, the Birds deserve to return home, even if Canada has to poke and prod them.

MLB teams could even travel by ferryboat from the US to Canada to allow for less chance of travel staff getting infected.

On June 23, Clutch Points Ried Goldsmith reported that the MLB & MLBPA agreed to a sixty game season with training camps starting July 1st.

Blue Jay fans can always count on Clutch Points for breaking news about our team.

The new agreement is reportedly to contain universal DH in both leagues and an expansion to the current playoff system. The season is supposed to throw first pitch July 23rd.

Teams will be able to begin trading Friday June 26th and will have a deadline of August 31st.

Bob Nightengale reported "Teams will play 10 games apiece against their division rivals and 20 total games versus their geographical counterparts in the other league. For example, the Arizona Diamondbacks will play 10 games each against the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, San Diego Padres and Colorado Rockies.

Their remaining 20 games will occur against the Los Angeles Angels, Texas Rangers, Houston Astros, Oakland Athletics and Seattle Mariners.

Interleague geographical rivals (Chicago Cubs vs. Chicago White Sox, New York Yankees vs. New York Mets, Oakland Athletics vs. San Francisco Giants and Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Los Angeles Angels) will play each other six times each."

The league has implemented other rules but this is good for baseball but again, the major question is will the Jays be able to return home? With so few expected to attend games, those in the Toronto area should have relatively cheap seats if allowed to attend.

Imagine being a video maker and being able to go live from a major league stadium. Imagine the first play by play. Hopefully, Canada doesn't disappoint Blue Jay fans who have been suffering since the strike season. With the shortened season, this is Canada's first real chance to bring home the World Series Trophy.

Five bubble players who will make the roster

The Patriots have around 90 players on the roster. While over half will make the roster, 36 of them will either be on practice squad or out of the NFL after the final cut down. So who are some players on the Bubble that should make the roster?

Will Hastings is a name Patriots fans should keep an eye on. Hastings is an undrafted free agent who played for Auburn. His best year came with Jarrett Stidham was under center in 2017. That was also the year Stidham showed he had first round talent.

Hastings can help the Patriots as he is a Julian Edelman clone in the slot. Hastings can also help on special teams and can kick an onside when needed. What gives him the early advantage is his chemistry with Stidham and the fact the Belichick has been scouting him since high school.

With the shortened offseason, the Patriots are going to need guys that can connect with Stidham and have an early impact. As long as he knows the playbook, that will be Hastings. Everyone saw the connection between Stidham and Meyers, that's what one can expect to see with Hastings and Stidham.

Rashod Berry is another player that at the moment has a good upside. The tight end has reportedly been listed as a linebacker by the Patriots. A position he played early in his college career. 

The Patriots are thin and still searching for answers at both positions. Berry is a freak athlete and has potential to make the depth chart at either position. The ability to play both helps the Patriots fill needs while taking up fewer spots. Injuries have plagued the Patriots the past few years, so this alone gives him an early advantage on the team.

When one thinks of what to expect from Berry, think of former Patriot Jake Bequette who played defensive and tight end. The only question is will Belichick get more production out of the former Ohio State Buckeye than he did out of his former 2nd round pick? Keep in mind Belichick has better luck with UDFAs than early draft picks.

Ryan Izzo was drafted by the Patriots in 2018 and is still on his rookie contract. Belichick red shirted Izzo for the 2018 season and from week 11 on during the 2019 season.

Izzo only played weeks one through six of 2019 before a concussion hurt his development. Izzo spent weeks seven, eight, nine, and ten out due to effects of his conxission. Izzo was targeted six times between weeks five and six and had his best production. 

If not for the injury, Izzo would've put up more catches and yards then both Watson and Lacosse who played in almost twice as many games. That's with Brady refusing to throw to him the first four games when open. 

The only knock on Izzo, is his blocking slipped in 2019 and one can be assured he is working on that; however not all tight ends are blocking tight ends. Look at Kelce, Hollister, and Jimmy Graham; just to name a few. Izzo's hands maybe all he needs.

With Asiasi, Keene and Berry being rookies, the Patriots are going to need a veteran. Being his third season, this season will have Izzo playing with something to prove. Being a cheaper option to boot, Izzo fills the void for veteran experience in 2020.

Hjalte Froholdt was a 2019 fourth round draft steal by the Patriots. To make sure he did not lose him, Belichick redshirted him on the IR.

The Patriots normally carry three backup offensive linemen and to get an early jump on the roster, Froholdt was one of the first Patriots to start actively training on his own. He went to a summit for offensive players to be coached on areas the Patriots thought he needed working on.  

As an Interior offensive lineman, Froholdt will enter camp ahead of the rest of the backups and should be able to fend them off. There are several players fighting for the two Interior offensive line spots. Having a year of knowledge of the Patriots playbook and system will be all he needs.

Nick Coe is another Auburn beast from 2019. The Patriots are thin at both defensive tackle and defensive end/edge. Coe is versatile and can play anywhere on the line. 

Coe is 6'5", 280 pounds. He is a Richard Seymour style lineman. The Patriots had trouble stopping the run, whether it was up the middle or around the edge. Coe has the ability to eliminate that.

Coe can also drop play linebacker but is in the slower side for a linebacker, this gives the Patriots versatility to scheme as they can have him drop back off into coverage against slower tight ends and allow a linebacker or defensive back to blitz. 

The Patriots have many people who could be on this list from Brian Lewerke to Rex Burkhead to Dedric Wise Jr. to Joejuan  Williams, the Patriots are that loaded at depth. If the Patriots meet for the preseason, there will.be some of the most exciting battles to take place in a long time and no shortage of stories to talk about. 

First Palmer, then Simms, now Hasselbeck, who's next?

While Naysayers like Colin Cowherd rank Stidham to that of Tim Tebow, others have more knowledge in football and faith in Stidham.

By now, unless one has been living under a rock for the past six plus months; you know Stidham was not only projected to be a first round selection but the first quarterback off the board in a CBS mock draft.

Scouts and analysts will tell you that it wasn't Stidham's intelligence or talent level that resulted in him being taken in the fourth round. Yet few weeks ago when Chris Simms came out and ranked him above Tua Tagovailoa, Everyone lost their minds. Yet nobody questioned Jordan Palmer for praising Stidham's talent and ability.

Now, we wait for the backlash against Tim Hasslebeck. Hasslebeck had and still has Stidham above Will Grier, Dwayne Haskins, and Daniel Jones. 

“He’s a really natural passer. So when I watched him at Auburn, I thought he was the third-best quarterback coming out of last year’s draft. It was Kyler Murray, Drew Lock and then Jarrett Stidham. There are things that he does that are hard to coach and hard to get better at doing. You see Tom Brady with those little, subtle movements in the pocket and he’s able to find enough room to get the ball off. I think there are some similar traits with his Jarrett Stidham and his ability to do that stuff.”

Hasselbeck goes on to say that the Patriots could add another quarterback to the packed room that also contains J'Mar Smith, Brian Hoyer, and his clone Brian Lewerke.

So why do analysts keep saying Stidham is so good? Could it be because coming out of high Stidham was ranked higher than Sam Darnold, Lamar Jackson, and Joe Burrow, ranking second behind Kyler Murray?

Could it be that in 2015, of all college quarterbacks with minimum 100 attempts, Stidham had the highest rating with a 143; while only being a freshman?

In 2018 ESPN ranked ranked Will Grier the third best player entering the college season. The next two quarterbacks in order were Jarrett Stidham and Tua Tagovailoa at ten and eleven. Stidham was above Burrow, Murray, Haskins and several others.

USA today in June released their top 10 quarterbacks plus five who just missed the cut. Paul Myerberg had Will Grier went fourth, Stidham fifth. Justin Herbert Sixth, Drew Lock Seventh. Just off the list were Kyler Murray and Tua Tagovailoa. 

Sports Illustrated also Ranked Stidham (83) ahead of Tua (84). However they were a bit higher on some of the other quarterbacks. Herbert (61), Lock (33), Grier (22), but they also thought Khalil Tate (3) was the best quarterback entering the 2018 season.

I could go on but you get the point. Scouting and draft positioning don't always translate. Every year there are players who play above their draft grade. Players who go undrafted that shouldn't of, while players went in the first round are declared busts. 

Comparing where Stidham was ranked in college in comparison to Tua and others, and then looking at where they were drafted. There is no reason to believe Stidham might not have the better career.

Scarnecchia reveals Stidham's key advantage over Tom "The Buccaneer" Brady

Finding something to write about as a sports writer is hard. It's even harder to write when you're predominantly a football writer. Unlike normal years, where the Patriots keep the NFL relevant during the offseason; there is nothing to write about.

As per usual, the other 31 NFL teams are a waste of time, and is why people didn't watch superbowl 54. This offseason has been about Covid-19 and Tom Brady. Speaking of Brady, he's now a Buccaneer now and Stidham is likely going to be his heir to the Patriots thrown.

Scarnecchia, Patriots former offensive line coach told Sirius radio that Stidham will make mistakes for being inexperienced but admitted all young quarterbacks are like that. He then praised Stidham's mind for the game, talent level and work ethic.

“He’s a bright kid, and he’s a guy that, when he doesn’t know, he’ll take off. He showed in the preseason last year that he’s got some skills. He knows when to get out of there and where the escape points may be, and when he gets out of there, he also knows when he’d better get down, because he knows better than to try to run through guys as well.”

Scarnecchia has been around the NFL for approximately 40 years. According to Dijo Songco of Clutch Points, "The five-time Super Bowl champion coach does know a thing or two about the Patriots’ offense, as he spent more than three decades as part of the great Bill Belichick’s coaching staff."

So when Scarnecchia speaks, people tend to listen and respect what he has to say. So when he said that he was impressed by Stidham, his talent level and athletic abilities, we should be also.

Stidham was impressive during his inaugural preseason, posting better numbers than all of Brady's previous backups. There's not enough tape against NFL talent though, college is a different story.

Stidham's college career had it's ups and downs. It started good in 2015, after being declared the second best quarterback coming out of high school above the likes of Lamar Jackson and Sam Darnold. Stidham played good his freshman year at Baylor.

After Stidham left Baylor and took a took a year off but when he returned, he was rated above current AFC east division rivals in 2017. He had a great season and was considered a first round quarterback. However, he chose to return to Auburn; why, we don't know. Just another bad career decision by Stidham.

Entering the 2018 college season he was again ranked above division rivals, including Tua Tagovailoa for the second straight year by many analysts and scouts. Stidham entered 2018 being expected to be the first quarterback off the board according to CBS sports. 

We all know about what happened at Auburn, and how Stidham ended up a fourth round selection. There is plenty of film to show what Stidham does well, how Auburn used him wrong, and of course everything that Stiddy needs to improve on.

Songco also wrote, "With that said, 2020 will be the true test of Stidham’s character now that he’s pushed to lead the mighty Patriots into a new chapter in their franchise."

It wasn't Stidham's talent or intelligence that kept Stidham from being a first round pick, ask any scout or analyst. In fact, Chris Simms did what almost every analyst did over the course of 2017 and 2018, he ranked him higher than Tua on a talent level.  

So don't be surprised with the help of Josh McDaniels and Belichick, when Stidham lives up to the hype from Scarnecchia and finally plays passed the Trevor Lawrence / Justin Fields talent level. 

Mayer requests players to stop joint training

On Saturday June 20th, teams received a major blow. Chief Medical Official for the NFL, Dr. Thomas Mayer requested all players immediately stop any workouts with other players.

In his statement , Mayer told players that the league is doing everything they can to come up with a way to keep players safe but again reiterated that players avoid trying to keep some form of normalcy until called upon to report to their corporate facilities.

In his statement Mayer said "Please be advised that it is our consensus medical opinion that in light of the increase in COVID-19 cases in certain states that no players should be engaged in practicing together in private workouts. Our goal is to have all players and your families as healthy as possible in the coming months."

There have been several organizations that have come up with infectious personal including Dallas, San Francisco, Tampa, Denver, and Houston. All reporting cases this week. The NFL is trying to protect it's corporate employees but this is evident that there are lapses in their policy.

98.5 the sports hub reported on Dr. Mayer's statement saying "It's worth noting that while the NFLPA cannot outright ban its players from getting together, their advice here certainly comes with an eye for the future, as Mayer noted that this suggestion comes with the parties wanting to have the smoothest operation possible when teams begin to report to camp next month."

Now while the NFLPA doesn't have the power, one must wonder what kinda power Roger Goodell has in stopping those with NFL salaries from meeting. This statement by Dr. Mayers comes after The Leading voice on the coronavirus, Dr. Fauci came out and said the NFL couldn't keep their players safe unless they played in bubbles.

Something The NFL and Dr. Mayer disagreed with. So far the NFL and NFLPA are not doing well with keeping players safe. With the Virus spiking in 22 states, it is going to be hard for the NFL to keep personal safe. Especially for the 7 months that they normally gather. The NFL is on the Max Kellerman Cliff with the coronavirus and is going to have to take drastic measures to keep the season from going over.

It could be coincidence but keep in mind the League was doing okay until Tom Brady decided to Join the Buccaneers and things have only gotten worse since Gronkowski joined Brady and both received uniforms. Is fate punishing the NFL for the dynamic duo disrupting the natural order of the NFL?

Fauci "there may not be a season"

On june 15th, I released an article titled Clutch Points reported NFL Players catch Corona as NFL is preparing to Open. In which I discussed the possibility of there not being a season.

Since then It has come to light that a Denver Broncos' player, and a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers organization has come down with the virus, and two more have entered quarantine.

One of the experts on the coronavirus, Dr. Fauci, has said that the NFL might not have a season. He spoke with CNN about it. 

"Unless players are essentially in a bubble – insulated from the community and they are tested nearly every day – it would be very hard to see how football is able to be played this fall. If there is a second wave, which is certainly a possibility and which would be complicated by the predictable flu season, football may not happen this year."

As I reported in my last article 22 states were seeing increases in the number of infected individuals. Some up to 25%.

CBS Sports Caitlin O'Kane reported the NFL's chief medical official about what the league is doing to contain and stop an outbreak among NFL employees. Here is a sample of the statement from the NFL's website.

""We will make adjustments as necessary to meet the public health environment as we prepare to play the 2020 season as scheduled with increased protocols and safety measures for all players, personnel and attendees..." 

NFLPA union president JC Tretter released the following statement

“I don’t know at this point. Obviously, it’s a novel, emerging virus, so there’s consistent updates, and new information comes out every day. So, I’ve continually tried not to look too far ahead, focus on two-week spurts of making sure we’re all set up." 

Baseball, Basketball, and Soccer have all discussed playing in a set location. The sports would hold tests and limit accessibility to the players and league-team employees. Baseball players have been against this idea.

O'Kane wrote "Plans could also involve players isolated in a bubble site and routinely tested with the hopes of eventually returning to home markets when possible, CBS Sports reported. "

As I stated in my previous article, players don't seem to care about the virus and with Goodell wanting to press on with the season , he may issue waivers or have the league play with scabs.

Find my earlier article from June 15th here. 

http://vicariouslypatriots.blogspot.com/2020/06/clutch-points-reported-nfl-players.html

What does Stidham have going in his favor?

Jarret Stidham is the projected to be the starting quarterback in 2020 for the Patriots, as long as there's a season to be played. So what does Stidham have going for him?

For starters, draft position. While draft positioning doesn't always translate into success, it does give some expectation into performance and talent level. It's well known heading into the 2018 season, Stidham was looked at as a first round prospect but by the end of that season he was a fourth round selection.

Dak Prescott, Russell Wilson, Tom Brady, Roger Staubach, Rich Gannon, and Joe Thiesman are just a few quarterbacks taken deeper in the draft that have had success. The fact that Stidham was once viewed as a first round projection adds more reason to expect something from him.

Looking at the 2019 season, Stidham beat out Brian Hoyer for the backup job. Granted the Patriots brought in Cody Kessler, Stidham's role on the team still seemed higher.

Stidham spent the 2019 season working with the offensive starters during weekly practice. He got to practice against a starting defense. That means in practice he was going against elite talent. Most backups practice against backups if they take a snap at all in practice.

Stidham also got to sit in the quarterback room and study film with Tom Brady. How much Tom worked with the kid is unknown. However, getting to study Brady and learn how he prepares for a game helped Stidham improve as a quarterback. One doesn't sit behind the best and not learn something.

Brian Hoyer, yes Hoyer. Hoyer is one of the most intelligent quarterbacks in the NFL, even if he doesn't have the physical ability to back it up. With Hoyer on the roster, Stidham has another quarterback coach to learn from. He has been around the league, seen almost as much as Brady has seen and can transform Stidham's young mind.

On top of that, Hoyer knows the Patriots "Air West Spread" system. So along with Josh McDaniels, Stidham has the mind of a veteran quarterback to help understand the playbook.

McDaniels has peaked in the NFL. However, as an offensive coordinator McDaniels is right where he should be. He knows how to get creative and use players to the best of their abilities. I have been hard on McDaniels and called him vanilla, I have been told that I was too harsh. If McDaniels wasn't vanilla in the passing concepts called in 2019, than Brady was to blame for the passing game's lack of inspiration.

Stidham is much more mobile quarterback than Brady. In 2015 Stidham was ranked the 2nd best dual threat quarterback coming out of high school, just behind Kyler Murray. He was also ranked higher than Kelly Bryant, Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, and Sam Darnold by ESPN, coming out of high school.

Throughout his college career, ESPN, Sports Illustrated, CBS And USA Today all had Stidham as the more talented and better quarterback over the division rival who was taken fifth in the 2020 NFL draft.

If McDaniels cannot figure how to use him as a duel threat, McDaniels needs to go back to college or retire. Being that the Patriots hybrid system was held back by Brady's lack of mobility, Stidham has a larger playbook at his disposal.

Chemistry is important between a quarterback and a pass catcher. Stidham had developed a chemistry with Jakobi Meyers during the 2019 preseason. One Brady failed to duplicate. Stidham also had developed a chemistry with Will Hastings in 2017. 

Brady was quite upset with his pass catchers in 2019. Brady had to watch his pass catchers practice with Stidham. One must wonder how much better was the connection with Stidham and the offense?

On top of that Stidham has Edelman, White and possibly Sanu, Burkhead and Lee to help him as they have experience in the NFL. Like Hoyer, they know what defenses look like and know how to adjust. This will make Stidham's job that much easier. If Stidham developed chemistry with any these veterans during 2019, we will see that on the field.

Sony Michel, James White, Brandon Bolden, Damien Harris, and JJ Taylor are all guys who can be duel threats. While Brady and Michel never connected because it wasn't Brady's job for them to connect, They will connect with Stidham. This will force defenses to play the pass as well as the run. 

Sony Michel is coming off back to back 900 yard seasons where penalties and injuries costed him 1,000 yard seasons. With Brady gone the Patriots running back group will finally be allowed to bring the balance they were supposed to in 2019.

The Patriots also have Joe Thuney, Isaiah Wynn, David Andrews, Shaq Mason, Marcus Cannon, Froholdt and Cajuste all healthy. That means the running backs will be able to get to the line before getting touched and Stidham will have protection when dropping back to throw the football.

Injuries decimated the Patriots blockers in 2019 and Brady was getting hit and getting rid of the ball more than he has in the past. With Keene, Asiasi, and Izzo adding to the offensive line Stidham should have all day to throw the ball.

Then there is the returning defensive and special teams units. Which I won't get into.

Stidham has big shoes to fill and should be motivated by the tank for Trevor movement. Stidham should also be motivated by those who say Brady's heir is in San Francisco. Stidham will get to face Jimmy G. week 6. That will be the first test for Stidham. Can he claim the title as Brady's successor form the man who was apart of one of the biggest stories 2017?

Stidham has the support of his team for now. He's showing leadership both in his community and in the organization. He will have to continue to be the leader and set the tone. Belichick has shown that he has little loyalties to his players and thus Stidham is a corporate employee just like everyone else. Stidham be smart to remember that.

The curse of the Goat

The first case of the coronavirus in the unit States was reported in January 2020 but football went on. The superbowl came and went. 

In early March Tom Brady still hadn't resigned with the Patriots and life in the United states was not normal. By mid March the United States was in a shutdown. It was devastating for Americans. Everyone wanted to know how could this happen.

Then Tom Brady came out and said he was not resigning with the Patriots and everything became clear, why America was being punished. 

On April 21, Rob Gronkowski was traded to the Buccaneers. The next day several states reopened early. What happened next was those states started seeing spikes in the coronavirus.

As the summer came, The NFL made plans for kicking off the NFL season. All seemed good. Then it was announced the Buccaneers had delayed their Jersey reveals.

On June 15th, several Cowboys and Texans players contracted the virus. The league, did it's best to keep it under wraps.

On June 16th, Tom Brady revealed the first pictures of him in the new Tampa Bay Jerseys. Early June 18th, Rob Gronkowski revealed photos of himself in his new Jerseys.

This move was quickly punished by the football gods and now the season is in Harold according to Adam Schefter.

Schefter tweeted on June 18th "One Buccaneers’ assistant coach has tested positive for COVID-19, and two other Tampa Bay assistants have been quarantined, per sources. The one Buccaneers’ assistant coach who tested positive is asymptomatic."

The United States has the most amount of people infected with the virus. With the president calling for a stoppage in testing to lower new numbers, we may never know how many are actually infected.

Chris guest of Clutch Points wrote. "Due to the sheer volume of cases, the United States also ranks first in total deaths caused by coronavirus: 120,688. While that number might not seem particularly high, that does represent a death rate of over 5 percent. That means that of the people that have contracted COVID-19 in the United States, over 5 percent of them have died due to the disease."

Chris goes on to say what many Americans are thinking. That with how serious the virus is, that maybe the NFL should reconsider having  the 2020 season. 

Lord knows how the football gods will punish the United States if Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski take the field for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The NFL may want to void their contracts for the best interest of mankind.

Patriots: Don't make Belichick angry, you won't like him when He's Angry.

The New York Post is saying Belichick has been angered. The post spoke with ex Patriot Rodney Harrison and got his insight in the hoodie.

“(Belichick) might bring up a couple articles … everybody saying it’s over, Brady this, Brady that. Of course he’ll say something about that. But at the end of the day, whether he makes the point or not, he knows the team will be motivated to prove they can win without Tom.”

Brady left and forced Belichick to see what he has in Stidham a year earlier than expected. However, the crafty coach brought in an old face to help. The Patriots brought back Hoyer after a year in Indy.

Harrison went on to say “It’s not just talk, not with the Patriots. It’s a chip you carry in the weight room, you carry in the film room, in the dining room, you carry at home watching extra film, it’s a chip that motivates you."

Unlike most teams who have to start over from scratch, Belichick is in a good spot after Brady left. The top 5 defense is returning, along with a top 10 special teams unit, and a fully healthy starting offensive line.

Belichick spoke about Stidham earlier this offseason. “Stid worked really hard last year. He was our backup quarterback the entire season, and I know he’s working hard in the offseason."

Belichick helped out Stidham by bring in his go to guy from Auburn in Will Hastings. Everyone is talking about the connection Stidham had with Meyers. The Patriots are expecting the same connection with Hastings in 2020.

Brady is gone and Fans have jumped ship crediting Brady for the success. Other fans are demanding Belichick trade every player of value, kiss away any chance of winning a superbowl over the next decade and tank for Trevor. Then there are the talking heads who want to stir the pot and ask who was responsible the 67 year old quarterback or the 43 year old quarterback.

The media gets under the Patriots skin and drives them but what do you think it's doing this offseason? Remember Belichick doesn't have to win a superbowl this season but with this defense, he will be expected to win one within the next five seasons.

Harrison finished with “It’s motivating for people to say you can’t win without Brady, I know I would be pissed. … So these guys are going to be motivated, pumped up and ready to go.”

The worst thing anyone can do is doubt Belichick.  Belichick is the master and the NFL is his B****. Those who forget that will soon find themselves on their knees kissing his rings.