Wow!! the Patriots enter the week 10 bye with a 7-2 record, 2 games atop of the AFC east and coming off what looks like the resurgence of the offense. But by no means is this team perfect, for every good win (the saints) their was a bad loss (The Jets). Here is what i think the patriots should focus on during week 10
Brady's Connection --- As good as the Patriots looked vs the Steelers the unfortunate fact is that the Patriots have not looked sharp on offense and the wide receivers still look a little lost at time. In a week where the Patriots can run a wider variety of drills It would be good to perfect that timing between Brady and the receivers and get Thompkins and Dobson to stop double catching.
Figuring out a run stopping package --- Although the Patriots traded for Isaac Sapoaga the run defense still could use a lot of work. The Patriots can't count on Vine Wilfork or any other big name nose tackle coming to their rescue so they need to figure out a way to stop the run. The Patriots have tried 5 linemen formations and have Spikes playing a huge amount of snaps but they need to find some way to effectively stop the run.
Integrate returning players --- Most notable Shane Vareen. The kid was electric week one and if he can continue that kinda play as a scat back that would be outstanding for this patriots offense. But he hasn't played in 2 months so he needs to get re acclimated to the game. Also Armon Armstead could be integrated into the DT rotation to help with the run, or just give other tackles rest.
Figure out the secondary with and without Talib --- obviously everyone is looking for Talib to come back and the Patriots will be thankful to have him playing. look for the patriots to slowly work him back into playing. Also the Patriots need to figure out how to defend the pass without Talib. Talib has been injury prone and the Patriots cant survive with the Arrington playing outside.
And Lastly..... In Depth Gameplan for the Panthers --- This is one of Bill's best aspects as a coach. The Patriots get an entire extra week to game plan for the Panthers and they need to make sure they take advantage of it. No Doubt Belichick is working on that already.
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