Last Season
Fans of the New England Patriots will agree that the team's chances
last season were almost ended before they really began, after
quarterback Tom Brady suffered a serious knee injury in the
season-opener, keeping him out for the rest of the season. The team's
offense suffered as a result of his absence, but the team rallied and
managed to chalk up a 11-5 record. Wide receiver, Wes Welker, stepped up
with over 1100 receiving yards, although Randy Moss faltered without
Brady. The team's defense though was consistent and even made the NFL
top 10, holding their rivals to an average of 309 yards per game.
However, failing to post much-needed points in the important games, the
Patriots did not make the playoffs. Off Season
During the off-season the Patriots were kept busy; they
traded Matt Cassel and Mike Vrabel; gained a 2nd round draft pick; bid
farewell to Rodney Harrison who retired aged 37 and welcomed seasoned
running back, Fred Taylor, and Leigh Bodden and Shawn Springs aboard.
The team's NFL Draft also went well as they secured four 2nd round
selections, as well as two extra 2nd round picks for 2010. The team was
injected with some new young talent in the form of Patrick Chung, a
strong defender who will fill the gap left by Harrison, as well as Ron
Brace and Darius Butler, will also add depth to the Patriots' defense.
2009 Preview
With Tom Brady set to make a welcome return this season, there is
nothing stopping the New England Patriots from dominating once more.
Assuming his knee injury is a thing of the past, there is no reason why
the quarterback won't return to his previously winning form. Running
back Laurence Maroney is likely to feature a lot this season, as will
Fred Taylor. And with Brady back, Welker and Moss will likely be
enthusiastic 1,000 plus yard recipients. New England's defensive is
likely be solid this season, putting the team in a perfect position to
excel.
2009 Prediction
The great thing about New England's schedule this season is that is
doesn't appear to be overly taxing. So assuming the team does not
undergo any huge crises - such as Brady's knee giving out - it should
chalk up its fair share of wins. The question is whether it will be able
to win the games that count, such as those against Atlanta and
Baltimore. Our Pick The Patriots are always favored and sometimes overvalued, but this season should see a few opportunities to make money following this team. Look for a return to the playoffs this season.
2009/10 New England Patriots Schedule
| Date |
Opponent |
| Sep 14, 2009 |
vs. Buffalo Bills |
| Sep 20, 2009 |
at New York Jets |
| Sep 27, 2009 |
vs. Atlanta Falcons |
| Oct 04, 2009 |
vs. Baltimore Ravens |
| Oct 11, 2009 |
at Denver Broncos |
| Oct 18, 2009 |
vs. Tennessee Titans |
| Oct 25, 2009 |
at Tampa Bay Buccaneers |
|
Bye |
| Nov 08, 2009 |
vs. Miami Dolphins |
| Nov 15, 2009 |
at Indianapolis Colts |
| Nov 22, 2009 |
vs. New York Jets |
| Nov 30, 2009 |
at New Orleans Saints |
| Dec 06, 2009 |
at Miami Dolphins |
| Dec 13, 2009 |
vs. Carolina Panthers |
| Dec 20, 2009 |
at Buffalo Bills |
| Dec 27, 2009 |
vs. Jacksonville Jaguars |
| Jan 03, 2010 |
at Houston Texans |
|
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