New England Patriots: Five Matchups To Watch In Joint Practices With Philadelphia Eagles
By Cyrus Geller
Dec 8, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass against the Cleveland Browns in the second half at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Cleveland Browns 27-26. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
2. Brady vs. Philly’s secondary
This is going to be a mismatch. I’m not going to sugarcoat it. Even if Rob Gronkowski is not available (which he probably won’t be), Brady and company should obliterate the Eagles’ pass defense. As a group, Philadelphia ranked 32nd in the league in pass yards given up last year, were 20th in sacks, 29th in overall defense.
Oh boy, this could be fun.
The Patriots offense is loaded with talented, especially if wide receiver Aaron Dobson is officially back. He has been on the PUP list all offseason, but made his return to practice yesterday. The one thing missing from New England’s aerial attack is a tall deep threat, so if Dobson is healthy, there is no stopping this unit.
Julian Edelman and Danny Amendola should own the middle of the field, taking advantage of mismatches on linebackers all day long. Newly signed Brandon LaFell should also be productive, as he has been making the most of his opportunities on the outside thus far. Philadelphia doesn’t have a single cornerback that can really alter this aspect of the game, so I am expecting a lot of noise from Bill Belichick’s offense.