Reasons Why The Patriots Would Re-sign Jacoby Brissett

What to do with Jacoby Brissett is a good question. He was supposed to be one and done. Herr are the reasons why the Patriots would re-sign Jacoby Brissett. Some have probably already figured it out. 

1. I'm going to start with the most unlikely, which is the patriots don't think Drake Maye develop well enough. Maye has 10 interceptions and 9 fumbles and according to pro football reference, Maye's average for a 17 game season would total 14 picks and 13 interceptions. Plus he still has his critics who say there's some flags from his draft profile that he still hasn't fixed yet.

2. The team's lack of age and wisdom. People are going to hear this a lot , but the pages don't have a lot of players over 30 on their roster. With how much dysfunction we've seen this season, The patriots clearly need some maturity.

3. Joe Milton did not develop the way he was supposed to. Milton was a developmental, with thea sub basement starting point, like he would be in quarterbacks range 65 to 96 but his ceiling might be higher then Maye's. The problem with bring Brissett back because Milton is not ready is we don't know if that means he's heading towards floor or if he's just slowly improving.

4. The Patriots want an experienced backup. Brissett is a bottom 32 starter and having an NFL quarterback at that level as a backup is a good security blanket. Brissett doesn't have Maye's arm but he also doesn't have his ball security issues, Where Maye throws passes he shouldn't, Brissett could take a few more he should.

5. I saved the worst for last... Dysfunction. The way the 2024 patriots, the post Belichick patriots have operated; re-singing him For no reason other than incompetence makes sense. The defense regressed, with exception to the tight ends & Maye, the offense regressed. The coaching staff regressed, All we need is Wolfe to make the re-signing without reason to come full spin in the cycle. 

Bringing Brissett back eats up a valuable roster spot. The patriots should have an emergency quarterback on the practice squad. Re-signing him comes has its perks but it also creates and exposes negatives. I think Bill would have resigned him, to see where Milton was at in the spring and then cut one of the two but Mayo's Patriots, Wolfe's Patriots, I don't know. And with how sentimental Robert Kraft is, Hoyer could be back for all we know.

The State Of The Patriots

The state of the Patriots a week early. At this point, not much can be said next week that can't be said now. Mayo is a hands-off CEO head coach who appears to have no communication with coordinators. He allows too much freedom, creating problems. The young coach hasn't shown follow-through and has been exposed for being wet behind the ears. The best option is to bring in an advisor or cut Mayo.

Belichick's corporate approach hid dysfunction, but now it's on full display. Does anybody miss how Bill did things yet!? Kraft's expectations were the 7th seed; they made it clear they expected the playoffs without directly saying it. With everything going on, Mayo has to be on the hot seat.

Covington is too inexperienced as a defensive coordinator, but the Patriots' defensive coordinator position is a good spot despite roster regression. As for Van Pelt, he needs improvement but deserves another year unless Wolfe doesn't plan on upgrading the roster. The offensive coordinator job, given this roster and the team's recent history, has to be undesirable. Replacing Van Pelt with anyone else but McDaniels seems impossible.

Pats fans want a loss with one week left, after having called for wins in the previous three meaningless games; now they're concerned with draft status. This is why teams shouldn't listen to the consensus of their fan base.

The roster itself has shown an overall regression and sloppy fundamentals. There's a lack of focus on the basics. They have no consistency this season, and to top it off, the locker room is split, with some defending Mayo, others quitting on plays and calling out the staff. And with all the holes on the roster, it has to be pointed out that the team passed on the opportunity to trade down, accumulate more picks, and still end up with Nix or McCarthy. They're not Maye, but the extra selections wouldn't be on other teams, while the Patriots have holes.

The offensive line regressed to its start-of-season level, coming full circle this season. The Patriots need either a better bell cow or an elite all-purpose back, as Stevenson cannot secure the football. The receivers suck outside of the slot position, and the tight ends are the only bright spot on offense, aside from Maye. Hell, the team doesn't even know who next season's backup quarterback is going to be.

The defense regressed and is not playing to the expected level. Keion White wants out due to defensive coaching dysfunction. Gonzo has been good, but the rest of the roster never showed up this season. Additionally, Jonathan Jones looks old and slow, and not like a potential free safety convert.

The Patriots had a few good seasons before Bledsoe, including the 1985 Super Bowl appearance, but they were pretty much a team of patriotic losers. Fans have either forgotten or are experiencing for the first time what it's like to support a team without consistent success. What fans are experiencing is what happens when ownership interferes with the team three years before the franchise quarterback departs and then asks the coach to be more cooperative after the franchise quarterback leaves.

Going Best Player Available Could Be Interesting If Sanders Is Available To The Patriots.

The Patriots got their franchise quarterback in 2024, getting away from the safe and accurate for the risky and exciting but if the Patriots go best player available when they select and Sanders is there, do they take the BPA and go with Sanders or opt for best player of need? Many fans are outraged at hearing this question but let's take a look at what the media listed as the pros and cons for each entering the draft, summaries of the pros and cons and my overall assessment of each's profile. Two boom or bust quarterbacks entering the draft, but who's better, read and decide. I give my opinion between the two at the end.

Shedeur Sanders, Quarterback, Colorado 

6'2" 215 lbs age 22 Senior

Project First Round

Here are the pros and cons, a summary of all the good and bad that makes Sanders a boom and bust as stated by the media like I did last year with the quarterback prospects, and my overall opinion.

Pros

- Accurate passer with great ball placement and situational precision

- Toughness in the pocket and willingness to take hits

- Performs well under pressure in big-game situations

- High football IQ with advanced quarterbacking fundamentals and instincts

- Mobility with above-average escapability and functional ability to extend plays

- Poise under pressure with a cool, calm presence in the pocket

- Field vision and ability to read defenses

- Off-platform throws and ability to throw with multiple arm angles/slots

- Big-play minded passer who can layer the football over the middle of the field

- Excellent ball security and ability to avoid unnecessary risks

- Natural leader who elevates teammate performance

- Above-average athleticism with good speed

- Smooth, concise delivery and compact, smooth throwing stroke

- Excellent footwork and throwing motion

- Ability to process defensive leverage effectively and recognize single-high safeties

- Works through progressions quickly and flashes ability to anticipate windows over middle

- Solid pocket navigation and ability to sidestep rushers

- Good touch and anticipation on comebacks and curls

- Impressive anticipation on intermediate routes and excellent downfield touch

- Good air time on red zone fades and ability to deliver throws with pressure in his face

- Playmaker who extends plays and creates second-chance opportunities

- Elite creator with the ball in his hands and ability to improvise

- Slippery enough to dodge tacklers and create clean launching pads

- Efficient when outside of the pocket and continued development and improvement

- Ultimate confidence and presence

Cons

- Holds onto the ball too long, leading to sacks and pressure

- Limited athleticism, arm strength, and play strength

- Pocket navigation issues, including drifting backward or laterally

- Inconsistent decision-making and anticipation

- Tendency to force throws and overlook blitzers

- Needs to improve footwork, base, and mechanics

- Can be undisciplined when negotiating pressure

- Struggles with off-platform throws and deep ball accuracy

- Lacks ideal size, speed, change of direction, and flexibility

- Can be late to process and trigger on route breaks

- Leadership concerns and potential distractions

- Needs to quicken internal clock and avoid unnecessary sacks

- Composite arm talent falls short of elite mark

- Will be a 23-year-old rookie with uncertainty about his ceiling

- Extra hitch in step causes slightly delayed releases

- Level of play needs to translate to higher competition

- Fumbles and penalties are concerns

The Boom

Shedeur Sanders is a transformative quarterback prospect with the rare ability to elevate his teammates and dominate games. His elite processing speed, pinpoint accuracy, and unwavering poise in the pocket make him nearly unflappable in high-stress situations. With his exceptional ability to make off-platform throws, extend plays with his feet, and deliver throws with timing and anticipation, Sanders has consistently produced at an elite level in college. His strong football IQ, natural leadership skills, and clutch gene are further evidenced by his impressive performance in big games, where he has consistently risen to the occasion and led his team to victory.

The Bust

Despite his impressive college production, Shedeur Sanders' limitations as a quarterback prospect are significant and alarming. His limited athleticism, weaker arm strength, and slender build raise serious concerns about his ability to withstand the physical demands of the NFL. Furthermore, Sanders' pocket navigation issues, including drifting backward or laterally, and his tendency to hold onto the ball too long, could lead to frequent sacks and pressure. His inconsistent decision-making, anticipation, and tendency to force throws will be exposed in the NFL, potentially resulting in turnovers and struggles. Additionally, Sanders' struggles with off-platform throws, deep ball accuracy, and delayed releases will make it challenging for him to succeed against elite defenses. Unless he addresses these issues, Sanders risks becoming a draft bust, failing to live up to his potential as a starting quarterback.

Overall

Shedeur Sanders is a talented quarterback prospect with a unique blend of strengths and weaknesses, giving him a very high ceiling and low floor. He excels in accuracy, toughness, and field vision, with a strong football IQ and ability to perform under pressure in big games. Sanders' skillset, which includes making off-platform throws, extending plays, and delivering throws with timing and anticipation, makes him an enticing option for teams seeking an elite quarterback. However, his limited athleticism, average arm strength, and tendency to hold onto the ball too long raise concerns about his potential in the NFL. With refinement and development, Sanders has the potential to become a franchise quarterback, but teams must carefully weigh the risks and rewards of selecting him in the draft.

Media Profile Comparisons: Andy Dalton, Tyrod Taylor, Tua Tagovailoa, Geno Smith, C.J. Stroud, Joe Burrow, Tom Brady, Lamar Jackson. Josh Allen, Teddy Bridgewater, Jared Goff

(2024 report) Drake Maye is 6'4" 223 lbs and 21 years old, 

Pros:

-Prototype build

-Athletism

-Escape artist

-Velocity 

-Arm strength

-Throws off platform

-Throwing motions

-Accuracy

-Pocket play

-Awareness

-Processor

-Decision making

-IQ

-Field vision

-Nerves

Cons:

- Making adjustments after the snap

- Inconsistent throwing mechanics/stances

- Inconsistent footwork

- Poor decision making

- Hesitates to make decisions

- Tends to hold onto the ball

- Risk taker

- Average pocket presence

- Poor throws under pressure

- Unnecessarily puts the ball in harm's way

- Throwing between coverages/defenders

- Forces throws

- Throws with too much velocity

- Bubble thrower

- Inconsistent accuracy, misses open targets

- Sails sideline throws

- Accuracy declines when play breaks down

- Goes with the first read too often

- Too many paper cuts (quick passes)

- Doesn't lead receivers

- Tucking the ball while running

- Doesn't slide when should

- Average mobility

- Cerebral escape artist

- Not a runner by design

The Boom:

Drake Maye is a dynamic quarterback prospect with a prototype build, elite athleticism, and impressive arm talent. He's a big, strong passer who possesses exceptional velocity, accuracy, and touch, allowing him to make precise throws from various platforms. Maye can throw with velocity and accuracy, whether it's firing passes over the middle or launching deep rainbow passes. He also has good touch and ball placement on deep throws. Maye's throwing motions are smooth and efficient, enabling him to deliver the ball quickly and on target.

With his high football IQ, excellent field vision, and awareness, Maye consistently makes sound decisions and identifies opportunities to exploit defenses. When it comes to reading the defense, he takes what's given to him and makes precise throws, even fooling defenders with their eyes. He's a natural escape artist, capable of extending plays with his feet and making throws on the run. Maye's pocket presence is impressive, as he demonstrates the ability to anticipate pressure, avoid sacks, and deliver accurate passes under duress. He's not just limited to the pocket either, as he is mobile enough and can scramble when pressured or take off when they see an open running lane. Maye knows how to anticipate the blitz and avoid the rush. He even ran UNC's simple offense better than Zappe ran the Patriots' offense. Overall, Maye's unique blend of physical and mental skills makes him an exciting prospect with tremendous upside.

The Bust:

Drake Maye has a few areas where he could use some improvement, and his inconsistencies and limitations could hinder his success in the NFL. His footwork in the pocket can be sloppy and inconsistent, leading to accuracy issues and erratic throws. He also has a longer release, which can affect his throws. Sometimes, he overthrows his targets or doesn't give his receivers a chance to make yards after the catch. He throws to the area of his receivers too much instead of to them.

Maye's tendency to lock onto one receiver and neglect his progressions can result in turnovers and missed opportunities. Furthermore, his decision-making is often questionable, as he forces throws into tight windows and takes unnecessary risks. Maye's average pocket presence and inability to handle pressure effectively can lead to sacks and fumbles. Additionally, his inconsistent accuracy, particularly on deep throws and sideline passes, raises concerns about his ability to stretch the field. His post-snap movement recognition and pre-snap reads could use some work too. Unless Maye addresses these issues and develops greater consistency and poise, he risks struggling to adapt to the NFL's complexities and becoming a draft disappointment.

Overall:

Drake Maye is a prototypical quarterback for the modern NFL, boasting a unique blend of physical and mental skills. However, he is in need of significant development and will likely require a minimum of one season to refine his craft. Maye must learn to play the position more effectively, avoiding the temptation to try to be a superstar and instead focusing on consistent, smart decision-making. He has the qualities of a long-term starting quarterback, but also exhibits red flags that could lead to him being a draft disappointment. To reach his full potential, Maye must address his inconsistencies, develop greater poise, and learn to balance his aggressive playing style with smarter decision-making. With proper development and refinement, Maye could become a high-end starting quarterback in the NFL, but like many high-end prospects, he could also be a huge bust.

NFL comparisons per media Sources:

Justin Herbert, Jordan Love, Johnny Manziel, Eli Manning, Carson Palmer, Jared Goff, Daniel Jones, Malik Willis, and personally, a big armed quarterback that I thought was a bust, that got hyped, Rob Johnson.

Summary

Maye has a more prototypical quarterback build and impressive arm talent, which could give him an edge in terms of physical ability. However, Sanders' report suggests that he has a more well-rounded skill set and a stronger football IQ. Overall, based on these scouting reports, Shedeur Sanders looks like the the better quarterback prospect, with a more polished skill set and fewer areas for concern. However, Drake Maye's physical abilities and arm talent made him the better athlete and a compelling quarterback in his own right. Meaning if the Patriots draft best player available in the upcoming 2025 draft, depending on one's evaluations of both Maye and Sanders, it's not impossible that the Patriots trade Maye and draft Sanders, no matter how improbable people think it may or may not be. Although, the Patriots have already spent a season developing Maye, which has to be taken into account as Maye may has improved since he was drafted. 

The Right Three Down Dime Is Still The Future Of Football

The 5-6 or 3-2-6 version of the three down dime defense. Is the future of football. This base dime defense scheme is well-suited for the modern NFL, which is increasingly adopting college-style offenses that emphasize speed and agility. The scheme's versatility, adaptability, and emphasis on speed and agility make it an attractive option for teams looking to counter these types of offenses.

The scheme's ability to create uncertainty and confusion for the offense, disrupt blocking schemes, and create pressure on the quarterback are significant advantages. Additionally, its flexibility in adjusting to various game situations and its ability to counter emerging trends and strategies make it a valuable asset for teams.

However, the scheme's limitations, such as its vulnerability to power running games, pass rush limitations, and red zone defense challenges, must be carefully addressed through personnel selection, coaching, and game planning.

With careful implementation and execution, this variation of a dime defense scheme can be a highly effective and formidable defense in the NFL and other leagues. Its ability to adapt and evolve makes it a valuable asset for teams looking to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-changing landscape of NFL offenses.

*Dime Defense Personnel:*

- 1 Nose Tackle

- 2 (43) Defensive Tackles/ (34) Defensive Ends hybrids

- 2 (43) Defensive Ends/ (34) Outside Linebackers (Edge) hybrids

- 3 Strong Safeties (2 playing Middle Linebacker or box)

- 1 Free Safety

- 2 Cornerbacks

*Advantages:*

1. Versatility and adaptability

2. Speed and agility

3. Excellent pass coverage

4. Blitz flexibility

5. Run defense

6. Deception and confusion for the offense

7. Adjustability

8. Matchup flexibility

9. Pressure from multiple angles

10. Confusion for the quarterback

11. Red zone defense

12. Goal-line defense

13. Tight end coverage

14. Running back coverage

15. Quarterback spy

16. Defensive linemen freedom

17. Offensive line confusion

18. Forced adjustments

19. Increased turnovers

20. Third-down efficiency

21. Reduced big plays

22. Improved red zone efficiency

23. Injury mitigation

24. Hidden blitzers

25. Quarterback decision-making challenges

26. Enhanced defensive back rotation

27. Increased use of speed

28. Improved nickel and dime packages

29. Better containment of mobile quarterbacks

30. More opportunities for turnovers

31. Greater flexibility in red-zone defense

32. Ability to disguise coverage

33. Improved defense against screens and draws

34. More opportunities for defensive linemen to make plays

35. Greater flexibility in adjusting to offensive formations

36. Ability to counter option plays

37. Effective use of speed and agility in the secondary

*Key Features:*

1. Rotating from a 3 to a 5-man line

2. Defensive linemen playing multiple roles

3. Strong safeties rotation playing middle linebacker roles

4. Six defensive backs providing excellent coverage

5. Blitz flexibility from multiple angles

6. Adjustability and matchup flexibility

7. Ability to stop the run or the pass

*Benefits:*

1. Creates uncertainty and confusion for the offense

2. Disrupts blocking schemes and creates pressure on the quarterback

3. Improves pass coverage and run defense

4. Increases turnovers and reduces big plays

5. Provides flexibility and adaptability in various game situations

*Strategic Advantages:*

1. Adaptability to pass-happy situations

2. Effective against multiple offensive formations

3. Ability to adjust to emerging trends and strategies

4. Encourages collaboration among coaches

5. Boosts player confidence and development

*Dime Defense Strategy:*

1. Rotate defensive linemen to create uncertainty

2. Utilize strong safeties as linebackers or blitzers

3. Employ multiple coverage disguises

4. Pressure the quarterback from various angles

5. Adjust defensive scheme to suit team's strengths and weaknesses

This dime defense's ability to adapt, confuse, and disrupt the offense, making it a formidable and flexible scheme. And a good base for the modern game that relies more on speed and agility than power.

There's always cons. The following potential challenges and limitations of this dime defense, emphasizing the importance of careful personnel selection, coaching, and game planning to execute effectively.

*1-20:*

1. Finding hybrid players

2. Lack of specialization

3. Depth concerns

4. Run defense vulnerability

5. Pass rush limitations

6. Gap control issues

7. Managing strong safety roles

8. Middle linebacker responsibilities

9. Free safety isolation

10. Complexity overload

11. Communication breakdowns

12. Vulnerability to screens and draws

13. Short-yardage situations

14. Power running games

15. Two-minute drill

16. Injury risk

17. Fatigue

18. Lack of consistency

19. Difficulty in adjusting

20. Coaching challenges

To optimize the three-down dime defense, invest in player development programs and scout versatile players to address hybrid player needs. Cross-train players and utilize position-specific coaches to mitigate specialization concerns. Foster a competitive culture through a strong practice squad and clear expectations. Adjust defensive schemes and personnel to counter power running games and enhance pass rush capabilities. Improve defensive line technique, linebacker play recognition, and secondary support to address gap control and coverage issues. Simplify complex schemes, establish clear communication protocols, and develop specialized packages for various situations. Prioritize player safety, manage fatigue, and provide coaches with resources to ensure effective implementation and adaptation of the three-down dime defense.

*21-40:*

1. Player buy-in

2. Practice time constraints

3. Scouting challenges

4. In-game adjustments

5. Blitzing limitations

6. Coverage confusion

7. Lack of edge pressure

8. Tackling issues

9. Red zone challenges

10. Goal-line defense

11. Two-point conversion vulnerability

12. Overtime challenges

13. Player development challenges

14. In-game substitution challenges

15. Opponent adjustments

16. Increased stress on strong safeties

17. Limited flexibility

18. Difficulty in defending trick plays

19. Vulnerability to quarterback runs

20. Challenges in defending strong receivers

To further optimize the three-down dime defense, foster a positive team culture and encourage player input to ensure buy-in. Maximize practice efficiency and utilize film study to overcome time constraints. Invest in scouting resources and technology to address scouting challenges. Improve sideline communication and utilize data analysis for effective in-game adjustments. Mix up pressure packages and emphasize coverage disguises to overcome blitzing limitations. Simplify coverage schemes and enhance defensive back communication to reduce coverage confusion. Employ creative pass rush packages and emphasize physicality to address tackling issues. Develop specialized packages for red zone, goal-line, and two-point conversion situations. Stay adaptable and adjust the scheme to counter opponent strengths, while rotating strong safeties and emphasizing player versatility. Improve defensive recognition and emphasize film study to defend against trick plays and quarterback runs. Finally, develop situational packages and emphasize cornerback play to counter strong receivers, ensuring a comprehensive and effective three-down dime defense.

*41-60:*

1. Increased risk of defensive penalties

2. Challenges in defending against teams with strong offensive lines

3. Difficulty in defending against teams with mobile quarterbacks

4. Overreliance on key players

5. Vulnerability to misdirection plays

6. Challenges in defending against teams with strong kick games

7. Increased risk of special teams mistakes

8. Difficulty in defending against teams with creative play-calling

9. Overemphasis on blitzing

10. Lack of containment

11. Difficulty in defending against teams with strong screens

12. Increased risk of defensive exhaustion

13. Difficulty in defending against teams with strong quarterback play-action fakes

14. Vulnerability to deep passes

15. Challenges in defending against teams with strong receiver motion

16. Difficulty in defending against teams with strong running back pass-catching skills

17. Increased risk of defensive miscommunication

18. Challenges in defending against teams with strong offensive coordinator play-calling

19. Difficulty in defending against teams with strong quarterback reads

20. Increased risk of defensive confusion

To address advanced challenges, emphasize discipline and technique to minimize defensive penalties. Counter strong offensive lines with upgraded defensive linemen and adjusted schemes. Develop situational packages to contain mobile quarterbacks and mitigate overreliance on key players by fostering depth and competition. Improve defensive recognition and film study to combat misdirection plays, creative play-calling, and strong screens. Enhance special teams technique and discipline to reduce mistakes. Mix up pressure packages and emphasize coverage disguises to avoid overblitzing. Rotate players and manage game tempo to prevent defensive exhaustion. Develop situational packages and emphasize cornerback play to defend against deep passes, receiver motion, and running back pass-catching skills. Regular team meetings and clear communication protocols will minimize defensive miscommunication. Simplify schemes and emphasize player communication to prevent defensive confusion. Additionally, improve defensive recognition and film study to counter strong quarterback reads, ensuring a well-rounded and adaptive three-down dime defense.

*61-80:*

1. Difficulty in defending against teams with strong quarterback scrambling ability

2. Vulnerability to fake punts and kicks

3. Challenges in defending against teams with strong special teams units

4. Increased risk of defensive frustration

5. Difficulty in defending against teams with strong fullback play

6. Vulnerability to counter runs

7. Challenges in defending against teams with strong tackle play

8. Difficulty in defending against teams with strong guard play

9. Increased risk of defensive injuries

10. Challenges in defending against teams with strong center play

11. Difficulty in defending against teams with strong tight end blocking

12. Challenges in defending against teams with strong wildcat formations

13. Difficulty in defending against teams with strong direct snap plays

14. Limited adjustments

15. Increased risk of defensive breakdowns

16. Difficulty in defending against teams with strong formations

17. Vulnerability to play-action passes

18. Challenges in defending against teams with strong quarterback reads

19. Increased risk of defensive mental fatigue

20. Difficulty in defending against teams with strong option plays

To address the final set of challenges, develop situational packages and emphasize containment to counter quarterback scrambling ability, fake punts and kicks, and strong fullback play. Emphasize special teams technique and discipline to combat strong special teams units. Foster a positive team culture and encourage player resilience to minimize defensive frustration. Utilize stronger defensive linemen and adjust schemes to counter strong tackle, guard, and center play. Prioritize player safety and develop depth to reduce defensive injuries. Develop situational packages and emphasize linebacker play to defend against strong tight end blocking and wildcat formations. Stay adaptable and adjust schemes to counter opponent strengths, simplify schemes to prevent defensive breakdowns, and improve defensive recognition to defend against strong formations, play-action passes, and option plays. Rotate players and manage game tempo to prevent defensive mental fatigue, ensuring a comprehensive and resilient three-down dime defense.

Statement on Apparent contradictions:

It may appear that there are contradictions in the areas of run defense, pass rush, red zone defense, hybrid players, strong safety roles, and blitzing. However, these apparent contradictions can be resolved by considering the following clarifications and solutions:

- Run defense: While the dime defense may be vulnerable to power running games, it can be strengthened by adjusting personnel and schemes to address specific opponent strengths.

- Pass rush: The defense's pass rush limitations can be mitigated by utilizing blitz flexibility and creative pressure packages.

- Red zone defense: The vulnerability in the red zone can be addressed by employing specialized packages and emphasizing tight end coverage.

- Hybrid players: The challenge of finding hybrid players can be overcome by investing in player development and scouting.

- Strong safety roles: The overexposure of strong safeties can be managed by rotating personnel and utilizing matchup flexibility.

- Blitzing: The limitations and overemphasis on blitzing can be balanced by mixing up pressure packages and emphasizing coverage disguises.

By understanding these clarifications and solutions, coaches and teams can effectively navigate the complexities of the three-down dime defense and unlock its full potential.

Patriots Beat The Bengals 16-10 In Week One

Jerod Mayo and the Patriots took on the Bengals in the first game post Belichick. Was a few questions going into the game, mainly concerning the offensive line.

So to answer the offensive line play. The left tackle had seven bad plays. And there were 11 more bad line plays in both aspects of the offense, with one being a false start. There also wasn't good separation from the pass catchers. A recurring problem.

On offense Brissett was accurate majority of the game, keeping the ball out of harms way minus a 50/50 ball. His decision making was good enough to manage the offense and that's the very least one wants from their starter.

The two running backs combined for 138 yards rushing. They never stopped moving the ball for majority of the game, repeatedly battering the defensive line.

The pass catchers hands were solid almost all game long, showing that while they might not be able to get decent separation, they were possession receivers. 

Special teams was excellent all around. Two good punts, three field goals, and forcing a turnover.

On defense it was a bend don't break soft pass coverage that only got beat 10 times, with two that could've been costly.

There were a few plays where tackling could've been better or was missed. Overall a good day for the patriots who beat the Bengals. I will say, Joe Burrow's decision making or vision was not on today as he missed somethings. The Patriots are 1-0. It's a new era in New England, and the team is off to a good start. The big concern is Mayo cannot let this be the teams superbowl.

Discipline And Intelligence A Staple Under Belichick

Brian Hoyer spoke to Phil Perry and Tom Curran about the playing football around the NFL and with the Patriots. His comments got me thinking about what Chad O'Shae was criticized for in Miami. And it got me thinking.

When Hoyer was talking, he said basically that every practice was important in New England and players were criticized anytime they had a bad day or made a mistake.. That with the Raiders under McDaniels, Josh tried that but some of Hoyer's teammates couldn't handle it.

Basically Hoyer was saying his teammates with the Raiders couldn't handle criticism. Which was a problem Matt Patricia had in Detroit and I believe both Joe Judge and Brian Florez were also accused of, being too hard on the players.

Hoyer was then asked about the difference between the difference between AVP's offense and the McDaniels-O'Brien Offense. Hoyer was like in the new Offense you don't have to think, it's dumbed down, taking pressure off of the players on comparison to the Brady Offense.

O'Shea was fired from Miami because the Offense was to complicated, to intelligent for the Dolphins to memorize and learn. When thinking about how Hoyer compared the new Patriots Offense to the old, one must think the same was true in Miami and that that's why O'Shea was gone. Not because he was a bad OC but because his players needed a Dumbed down Offense that didn't require thinking on the part of the players. 

The reason why coaches have failed once they leave New England is not because they're bad coaches. It's because they're intelligent, disciplined coaches and don't know how to coaches coach an unintelligent and undisciplined roster. And because they couldn't just cut the entire roster, they had no choice to deal with them. This now makes sense to why Belichick relied on interviews so much. The Patriots were just built different. 

Patriots Schedule And Early Prediction

The Patriots schedule is out. They have one game in Europe. So what is a realistic expectation and will people be okay with it? I think that depends on the person. 

First I am going to say currently that I think the Patriots will start the season 3-3, beating Seattle, New York, and Miami. The next two wins I think come against the titans and cardinals. I think theu could get swept by the dolphins and I think both the jets and Patriots could sweep the other but I don't think the Patriots can beat Miami twice.

In the win column, I have the Patriots improving by one game but I also think they will be in a lot of games, just like last season. I think either the Arizona game or the week after, if Maye is to start, that is when he will. Playing Buffalo twice in the final four games, I wouldn't bother playing Maye until 2025. That's me though.

The worst thing for Patriots fans is for the team to finish 8-9. We should want the team to improve but not to win unless they can seize a wildcard birth. I want the draft picks and so should everyone else unless the team looks like a contender. Let the team emerge in 2025 as a wild card team, don't force 2024. And don't play Maye unless the team loses the first 7.

Patriots Opened Rookie Mini-camp

The media gained access to the Patriots' rookie mini-camp, a rare occurrence under former coach Bill Belichick's tenure. However, with Mayo now at the helm, this move may signal a shift in the team's media policy. The media took the opportunity to get a closer look at the team, so we might expect to see something significant.

Based on accuracy heading into the post-draft offseason and preseason training, Milton should be the fourth quarterback on the depth chart - or should he? While some claimed Milton lacked accuracy, others argued the opposite, saying Maye was the inaccurate one.

The rest of the camp was uneventful. It's unclear why the Patriots opened this up to the media, aside from keeping the team's name in the news. When the entire team meets up, there might be something worth discussing, but this was a waste of the media's time.

In other Patriots news, Elliot Wolf was named Executive Vice President of Personnel, essentially another title for General Manager. This move was widely anticipated, much like the general manager search, making this announcement a formality.

Patriots's General Manager Interviews Are A League Formality.

The Patriots are looking to promote Elliot Wolf to General Manager, but league rules require them to conduct mandatory interviews with external minority candidates. This has sparked frustration among fans, but let's take a step back and consider the bigger picture.

The NFL's rules are designed to ensure diversity and fairness in the hiring process. However, it's no secret that the Patriots want to promote Wolf, which is why many candidates are declining interviews. Moreover, if a team knows they have the best candidate available, they're unlikely to take a chance on someone else.

So, now that the formalities are out of the way, let's focus on how the Patriots can make the most of this situation. Instead of simply going through the motions, they should use these interviews as an opportunity to gather valuable insights from experienced professionals.

The Patriots should be bringing in candidates to share their opinions on the current staff and roster. They should ask for their assessment of the team's direction and what's needed for success. This is precisely what fans and media were advocating for when Jerod Mayo was named head coach.

Given that front office personnel are turning down the Patriots, they should consider interviewing high-ranking scouts. And, I'll throw a longshot name out there - Bill Belichick. Yes, you read that right. Belichick should be interviewed, not as a slight against him but as a gesture of respect. He knows what the team is trying to build and can offer valuable insights from an outside perspective.

If Robert Kraft wants to honor Belichick in the Patriots' Hall of Fame someday, this could be a starting point to mend fences. As for Wolf and the General Manager position, this is merely a formality, so the Patriots might as well make the most of it. After all, being ahead of the curve wins games.

When To Start Maye

Drake Maye was a boom or bust prospect and everyone knew it. If you disagree, sorry but you're kidding yourself. There's a reason why Mayo mentioned his floor during the pre draft period. Johnny Manziel is Drake Maye's floor. Where is Manziel? So when do the Patriots start Maye?

The smartest thing the Patriots can do is start him when they believe he's ready. They have Maye for four or five seasons. And if he's not ready until sometime in year four, so be it. Those who thought he was too big of a red flag should at least agree with this.

Now if you're on the fence, that might not be good enough. To that I say the team should believe he's ready by no later then some point next season, the 2025 season, regardless if he plays. If Maye were Daniels or McCarthy, this is where my expectations for him would be.

For those that only looked at his ceiling and big play ability, You don't start Maye in 2024 until the season is lost. Take the pressure completely off of him. Once they start him, treat every game like a preseason game and let him know that he will be pulled to protect him if needed. That allows them to so develop Milton.

Unless one wants to see a team do to Maye what Belichick did to Darnold, the timelines I mentioned are the best ways to approach when to Start Maye. Right now Drake Maye is at his floor until he proves otherwise. He is someplace between Nathan Petermann and Johnny Manziel. His mid level is Rob Johnson and his ceiling for me is Eli Manning.

Go into the season with your worst expectations of the rookie quarterback. That way if he's bad, you expected it but if he has a good game, you didn't expect it and he can impress you repeatedly until you just expect him to be average or better. If you're expecting MVP Josh Allen, you're probably gonna hate the guy before he can get there.