Bold Predictions for the 2013 NFL Season

Oct 7, 2012; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots defensive tackle Kyle Love (left) and defensive end Chandler Jones (right) celebrate a tackle by linebacker Brandon Spikes (55) during the first quarter against the Denver Broncos at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Broncos 31-21. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

Greg L.: “The Patriots will have a top 10 defensive unit”

I agree with Greg and think the Patriots defense will finally make the jump in becoming one of the league’s top units. Last year the Patriots’ defense finished 9th in the league in run defense and they performed very well against top running backs like Arian Foster and Ray Rice. Drafting Jamie Collins helps add depth to the linebacker corps. and will help them better defend against the pass, something other Patriots LBs, like Brandon Spikes, aren’t great at doing. In the secondary, Aqib Talib’s presence for a full season along with the further development of Alfonzo Dennard will decrease the yards per game the Patriots allow. If CB Ras-I Dowling can actually stay healthy for once (fingers crossed) he could prove to be a key play-maker since he turned heads at OTAs. Finally, the combination of Devon McCourty and Adrian Wilson will make it very hard for teams to throw deep against the Patriots. Providing that everyone stays healthy for the season, the Patriots will have a top 1o defense.