Is today's point spread a slap in the face to the Houston Texans? While Belichick disciple, Bill O'Brien, wouldn't admit that it might be adding some extra fuel to the Texans' motivation, he has gone to most Patriots' fans' heads. Luckily, Belichick and Brady do a pretty good job not letting the Patriots' players believe the hype. Here are my keys to the game.
Win the Turnover Battle- Winning the turnover battle is always a good thing and played a major role in the Patriots' victory in September. Two of the three Patriots touchdowns came off of Houston turnovers.
Solid Special Teams- The first touchdown the Patriots had in the last game came off of a fumbled kickoff return caused by Brandon Bolden. Later in the game Cyrus Jones almost returned the favor with a misplayed punt return of his own. Although we should win the game without being gifted the ball in the red zone, we need to avoid letting them back into the game with a boneheaded play of our own. Ryan Allen had a great game last time with 6 of his 7 punts being inside the 20. Hopefully, the offense moves the ball with their typical efficiency with Brady at the helm.
Solid Special Teams- The first touchdown the Patriots had in the last game came off of a fumbled kickoff return caused by Brandon Bolden. Later in the game Cyrus Jones almost returned the favor with a misplayed punt return of his own. Although we should win the game without being gifted the ball in the red zone, we need to avoid letting them back into the game with a boneheaded play of our own. Ryan Allen had a great game last time with 6 of his 7 punts being inside the 20. Hopefully, the offense moves the ball with their typical efficiency with Brady at the helm.
Mix Up the Offense- Sometimes I don't want Josh McDaniels to get too cute with the offense. Today is not one of those days. While I'm definitely for seeing a lot of LeGarrette Blount, I'd also like to see double digit touches for Dion Lewis and James White. I'd also like to see the Texans have to burn a timeout or two when they see a play that forces them to get a personnel change. You know, on a goal line play where the Patriots line up linebacker or something as an eligible receiver or something.
Make Solid Tackles- The Patriots have avoided giving up big plays all season by keeping their opponents in front of them and making solid tackles. About the only time I want to see a hard hit is when we are a second late to the ball and want to prevent a catch. Hopefully the Giants didn't send any super tacky gloves to Griffen or Hopkins.
In my opinion, thecold weather tonight will not hurt the Patriots in any area other than kicking.
In my opinion, thecold weather tonight will not hurt the Patriots in any area other than kicking.
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