2012 Schedule Analysis + Game by Game Predictions

PRE SEASON-

Not much to say here since all of the games are meaningless but I will say this- Everyone is always down on the pre season games. The main argument is how much a waste of time and energy it is and while putting players at risk of injury. Another is the ridiculous cost of pre season tickets and how they are price tagged at the same price of an NFL regular season game. Another popular reason for hating on the pre season is that it is flat out boring. While all of that may be true, I beg to differ.  While I may just be a nerd of the Patriots, I find the whole off season and team building process fascinating. If you are a true diehard Pats fan every aspect of the offseason should interest you. Through the pre season you can act as a scout and have fun by making your own judgments and see who is performing well and who isn’t.  Typically Pre-Season games are nothing more than glorified scrimmages however, it is your first chance to get a glimpse of the teams newest  faces. Free agents and Rookie’s get their chance to show what they can do to justify a roster spot.  While you won’t be seeing Brady dropping back and floating any 60 yard touchdowns, you will see progression of the many training camp battles we will be following here on Premium Pats and to ultimately see who will make the final cut or not. If nothing else the pre season provides an excuse to see the Patriots in uniform playing on TV in some capacity and even bigger reason to get rowdy for the kickoff of the upcoming season. 

Glancing over the Pre Season games we start off facing the Saints on August 9^th.  This will come around sooner than you may think.  It will be interesting to see what the Saints look like after all of the turmoil that franchise has been going through all off season.  Next we have the Eagles and Buccaneers.  I also am intrigued by the Bucs game since Bill Belichick and Greg Schiano are close friends. I will be interested to see how that goes. Finally there is the New York Giants.  This game may get chippy ladies and gentleman. It will be played in New York, and the crowd will certainly be fired up.  The final game of the pre season before the regular season kicks off this game should promise to have the most “feel” of a regular season game.  Players will be fighting for their lives for their last chance at a roster spot.  Also both coaches have something to prove.  Bill never wants to lose but I am sure another loss to New York will add insult to injury-regardless of the importance of the game.  Also Tom Coughlin I am sure will still be fired up for the Patriots claiming Jake Ballard as he was in interviews a few weeks ago. Either way the Pre-Season has much to be intrigued and excited over.

REGULAR SEASON-

I will be the first to admit I am a Pats homer, but when I first saw this schedule I laughed out loud. This appears to be the easiest schedule in the league.  Whoever made this schedule must have been under the influence of some kind of drug because the Patriots only face four playoff teams from last season including; Baltimore, Denver, Houston, and San Francisco.  The Patriots make it to the Super Bowl and 12 of the games to be played by the Patriots this season are against non playoff teams.  Now with that said I live and die by the phrase “Any given Sunday” however, who can’t get excited and think this is a pretty much a cake walk schedule heading into the playoffs.

Let’s take a brief look at each game by game for this season. Here are my very early predictions.

WEEK 1: Sun., Sept. 9 at Tennessee 1:00 pm

The Patriots kick off the season Sunday September 9^th in Tennessee against either an aging Matt Hasselbeck or a young developing QB in Jake Locker.  Both teams should be riled up to kick off the season as it is a fresh start and clean slate.  I am not sure how the Pats defense will hold up but there is no reason the Patriots Offense can’t have their way with the Titans defense-who lost Cortland Finnegan this offseason.

Early Prediction: PATS WIN

WEEK 2: Sun., Sept. 16 Arizona 1:00 pm

Arizona is rebuilding, young, and a mess. Unless Larry Fitzgerald has his way with the Patriots secondary I don’t expect the Patriots to lose to Arizona. I just can’t picture Kevin Kolb coming in and carving up the Patriots.

Early Prediction: PATS WIN

WEEK 3: Sun., Sept. 23 at Baltimore 8:20

This one is one to circle on the calendar.  The Pats will travel to Baltimore for what will be a tough game as always against Baltimore.  Good news for Tom Brady is Suggs is unlikely to be on the field pestering Brady however, there are still plenty of talented players on that Raven’s defense to create havoc. Still, I will take the Patriots high powered (and upgraded) offense over Baltimore’s defense.

Early Prediction: PATS WIN

WEEK 4: Sun., Sept. 30 at Buffalo 1:00 pm

Tough to predict this far in advance but I think Buffalo’s front line will be very good this season and I mean that.  I think this will be a close one in Buffalo.  I think New England's offensive line may struggle early on and have trouble stopping a dominant Buffalo pass rush.
Early Prediction: PATS LOSE

WEEK 5: Sun., Oct. 7 Denver 4:15 pm

Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos come to New England.  How Peyton VS Brady is not a prime time game is absolutely baffling to me. I expect this game to maybe get flexed but there are a lot of factors that go into that and it is way to early to even think about that at this point.  I don’t know how good Peyton will be in Denver but one thing for sure is you will be getting Peyton VS Brady and that is enough to bet that it will be a competitive game. Game is at home in New England.  

Early Prediction: PATS WIN

WEEK 6: Sun., Oct. 14 at Seattle 4:05 pm

Remember the last time the Patriots faced Matt Flynn?  It didn’t go so well.  As tough as it is to play with the “12^th man” on the field I don’t think the Seahawks offense is good enough to outscore New England. Seattle’s defense is good though so this could be a trap game but as of now I just don’t see it happening.

Early Prediction: PATS WIN

WEEK 7: Sun., Oct. 21 New York Jets 4:15 pm

Oh the New York Jets.  Hopefully this time they will have already imploded but the interesting thing about them is they certainly have the talent- it is just the putrid culture that is plaguing New York. The team has set itself up for failure by picking up Tim Tebow, who will only draw attention and cause controversy at the Quarterback position but whether it be Mark Sanchez or Tim Tebow- the Pats will continue their winning streak and beat the problematic Jets at home.

 Early Prediction: PATS WIN

WEEK 8: Sun., Oct. 28 at St. Louis (London) 1:00 pm

Patriots owner Robert Kraft is pumped for this game as he should be as the NFL tries to further broaden it’s NFL branding globally. London has a huge following of Patriots fans so I expect it to have the atmosphere of a home game as it did the last time the Patriots came to London in 2009 against the Bucs.  The Rams were dreadful last season riddled with injuries.  They hope to come back stronger this season.  I think Sam Bradford has a very bright future at Quarterback, and if there is any coach to help him develop and blossom into a great player it is Jeff Fisher.  I like the moves the Rams have made this offseason on both sides of the ball, I just don’t think Bradford has enough weapons and the team as a whole is much too young.  The Rams will win more games than last season just not this one.

Early Prediction: PATS WIN

WEEK 9: BYE WEEK

Now- The Patriots have a BYE week. Typically this is where the players like to have their BYE as it is right smack in the middle of the season.  This allows players to rest up and heal any injuries and get ready for a strong playoff push. What is great about this BYE is the Patriots play in London October 28^th.  The Patriots have virtually a double bye – almost 2 weeks before the Patriots play again on Sunday November 11^th against Buffalo at home.

WEEK 10: Sun., Nov. 11 Buffalo 1:00 pm

 I expect the Patriots to be well rested and ready to go at home to take on the Buffalo Bills. The Bills by this point will be really coming on and their defensive front should be even better than it was in the beginning of the season. I want to say New England will split the season with Buffalo but I don't see how the Patriots will lose at home with almost 2 weeks to prepare for the Bills. I give New England th edge with an ugly victory against a tough divisional opponent at home.
Early Prediction: PATS WIN


WEEK 11: Sun., Nov. 18 Indianapolis 1:00 pm

Andrew Luck comes to Gillette! I expect big big things out of this kid. Luck is the complete package and has all the tools to become a great franchise Quarterback. Indy thought so too selecting the Stanford sensation with their first pick in the draft. Usually the Colts VS Patriots game is one Patriots fans have been circling on their calendars for years but with Peyton jettisoned from Indy this game should be a push over. Indy is in rebuilding mode and lost many key players. Luck I'll need all the luck he can get if he wants to out-score Tom Brady's Patriots.
Early Prediction: PATS WIN

WEEK 12: Thurs., Nov., 22 at New York Jets 8:20 pm

The Patriots travel to New York and I doubt the Jets will have their answer at Quarterback. Dare I say Tebowmania? I wouldn't be too worried. The Pats will shine in prime time!
Early Prediction: PATS WIN


WEEK 13: Sun., Dec. 2 at Miami 1:00 pm

 The Dolphins rookie Quarterback Ryan Tannehill will likely be starting at this point in the season and I don't foresee him stopping the undefeated Patriots. I expect Miami's defense to continue to play well, but Miami has no offensive weapons. If you think Chad Ocho Cinco and Davon Bess are enough to take out the Patriots then your probablly the one who created the Patriots 2012 schedule.
Early Prediction: PATS WIN

WEEK 14: Mon., Dec. 10 Houston 8:30 pm

Prime Time! Monday Night Football. A cold winter night in Foxboro. The Texans are on of the most well rounded teams in the NFL. I think it will be close but I don't feel the Texans who are not used to cold weather and who play in a done will be able to best the Patriots at home.
Early Prediction: PATS WIN




WEEK 15: Sun., Dec. 16 San Francisco 8:20 pm


If San Fran can play even at a fraction of how they played last season they will be doing well. The 49er's top defense is returning. San Fran's offense has presumably gotten better with the addition of first round pick A.J. Jenkins and key free agent additions in Mario Manningham and Randy Moss.  The 49ers are a favorite to make a Super Bowl push.  This will be the Patriots biggest test of the season at home.  I think Randy Moss and the 49ers will upset the Patriots at home.
Early Prediction: PATS LOSE

WEEK 16: Sun., Dec. 30 Miami 1:00 pm

Patriots-Dolphins a divisional game that will be essentially meaningless to the Pats. Late December. Potential frigid conditions.  I think the Pats will blow the Dolphins out of the water after losing at home to San Fran a week earlier.  The Pats typically don't lose two games in a row.  The Pats will finish strong.  Brian Hoyer gets mop up duty for this one as the Pats take the division and head into the playoffs with a first round BYE.

Early Prediction: PATS WIN

For the Patriot record I have them finishing the season at 14-2. A whole lot can change between now and the start of the season.  What are your predictions for the Patriots season? Post them in the comments section below and tell me what you think! 

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2012 NEP Schedule Released

Here it is - Analysis to come later today. Stay tuned.

PRE SEASON

Thurs., Aug. 9 New Orleans Saints 7:30 pm Patriots Preseason Network

Mon., Aug. 20 Philadelphia Eagles 8:00 pm ESPN (Nationally Televised)

Fri., Aug. 24 at Tampa Bay Buccaneers 7:30 pm Patriots Preseason Network

Wed., Aug. 29 at New York Giants 7:30 pm Patriots Preseason Network

REGULAR SEASON

Sun., Sept. 9 at Tennessee 1:00 pm WBZ CBS

Sun., Sept. 16 Arizona 1:00 pm WFXT FOX

Sun., Sept. 23 at Baltimore 8:20 pm WHDH NBC

Sun., Sept. 30 at Buffalo 1:00 pm WBZ CBS

Sun., Oct. 7 Denver 4:15 pm WBZ CBS

Sun., Oct. 14 at Seattle 4:05 pm WBZ CBS

Sun., Oct. 21 New York Jets 4:15 pm WBZ CBS

Sun., Oct. 28 at St. Louis (London) 1:00 pm WBZ CBS

Sun., Nov. 4 BYE WEEK

Sun., Nov. 11 Buffalo 1:00 pm WBZ CBS

Sun., Nov. 18 Indianapolis 1:00 pm WBZ CBS*

Thurs., Nov. 22 at New York Jets 8:20 pm WHDH NBC

Sun., Dec. 2 at Miami 1:00 pm WBZ CBS*

Mon., Dec. 10 Houston 8:30 pm WCVB ESPN

Sun., Dec. 16 San Francisco 8:20 pm WHDH NBC*

Sun., Dec. 23 at Jacksonville 1:00 pm WBZ CBS*

Sun., Dec. 30 Miami 1:00 pm WBZ CBS*

Lloyd Picks Up His Retro # 85

Not exactly groundbreaking news but Chad Ocho Cinco's 85 had been vacated since his release from the team.  Brandon Lloyd has donned multiple numbers through ought his career including 80 (Bears), 83 (Rams), 84(Broncos) and 85(San Francisco/Washington).  Rookie wide receiver Jeremy Ebert has jersey number 80.  Everyone knows 83 is taken by Wes Welker and 84 is taken by Deion Branch.  The number 85 was taken by Chad Ocho Cinco but now that he is no longer with the club the number 85 was released into circulation for players to choose from.  There was speculation that Patriots star tight end Aaron Hernandez who initially relinquished the jersey to welcome Chad Ocho Cinco to the team last season, may want to take back the number 85.  That proved to be UN true. Aaron Hernandez wanted the number 81 initially; however, Randy Moss was on the team at the time and occupied it.  Aaron wore the number 81 throughout his collegiate career in Florida so it worked out in Hernandez’s favor when Moss was no longer with the team and Ocho Cinco was picked up.  People often look at a jersey number as just a number but to players a number can mean a multitude of things and can be much more meaningful than that.  Players identify with their jersey's number. Brandon Lloyd wore the number 85 when he was in San Francisco and Washington for the first 5 seasons of his career in the NFL. Brandon had previously been wearing jersey number 88 throughout offseason workouts with the Patriots. Maybe the retro number will help Lloyd to feel as young as he did the last time he wore the number 85.  Lloyd is set to turn 31 on July 5th.

2012 Patriots Training Camp Schedule Released

The Patriots have officially released the first dates open to the public for training camp set to kick off in less than a month away!  This is a great opportunity to see your favorite Patriot players up close and in person for free! Training Camp officially kicks off July 25th. See dates below for more details.

Wednesday July 25th *CLOSED TO PUBLIC*

Thursday July 26th 1:30PM-4:00PM Open for Public Viewing

Friday July 27th 1:30PM-4:00PM Open for Public Viewing

Saturday July 28th 1:30PM-4:00PM Open for Public Viewing

Sunday July 29th 1:30PM-4:00PM Open for Public Viewing

Dates and times are subject to change.  Please see Patriots.com for more information and future dates as they are added throughout the summer!

http://www.patriots.com/trainingcamp/index.html

Rex Ryan a Pats Fan? Fat Chance!

It’s the dog days of the offseason, however I thought this was worth noting.  Over the weekend I had a chance to check out new Adam Sandler flick “That’s My Boy.”  The movie is based off of an inappropriate teacher-student relationship resulting in a child.  The mother (whom is the teacher) is sent away to prison leaving the boy to take care of their baby boy. The movie highlights years later when the baby is grown up, successful, and ready to marry, when suddenly the deadbeat drunk father tries to re-enter his grown son’s life.  Sandler (The dead-beat father) goes to his second rate Boston attorney “Jim Nance”(1960’s Patriots Star running back: played as New York Jets Head Coach Rex Ryan) who offers him personal and financial advisement.  As much as I absolutely LOATHE the New York Jets as well as their big mouth coach Rex Ryan, I must say the scene is absolutely priceless!  Rex Ryan is wearing a suit with red and blue Patriots colors and his office is loaded with Boston Sports memorabilia. Primarily littered with Patriots fan gear, I was footballs, posters, banners, helmets ect. The scene was a hilarious comical twist since Rex is the coach of the head coach of Patriots arch rival- The New York Jets. The scene goes on to Rex Ryan showing off his “Bill Belichick Bobble head” to Sandler who gets angry and throws a chair at a Tom Brady MVP Poster.  Ryan goes on to yell at Sandler telling him that’s not how to treat a “genius”.  The whole scene is bazaar and you need to see for yourself.  Rex Ryan previously has made a cameo appearance on CSI, and has been featured on his unforgettable season of HBO’s Hard Knocks where he came in as a head coach and displayed his colorful language and personality. 

Sandler, who is known to be a huge Jets fan, saw Rex’s acting potential and gave him the call. Sandler has this to say about landing the Jets head coach-"I can't believe the great coach said OK to it. It was cool as hell."

 Sandler also had this to say in choosing Ryan’s character.

"We thought it would be funny because we wanted a lawyer that could handle degenerates well, and we knew Rex could handle anyone," Sandler said.

It wasn’t all easy for the Jets head coach. Here is some of what Rex Ryan had to say about the film.

“I will say this, it’s way more work than I thought it would be-I just thought you’re gonna go in there, rattle off a couple lines and that’s gonna be it. But when they said, ‘Oh yeah. Shoot that again,’ I’m just like, ‘What, are you kidding me?’ Now I know how the players feel when we say, ‘Run that play again.’ But it was a blast.”

Sandler said Rex was “100 percent prepared, like every coach is, stepped in there nailed it, didn't realize he was going to have do about 600 takes, but he rolled with the punches."

Even Pats fans on the set were won over! "He's such a great guy and such a real man even Pats fans said, 'I gotta say, that guy is cool,' " Sandler said. "I'm not saying they're going to be Jets fans, but once you meet the coach it's hard to root against the guy. He's a stud."

I tend to agree.  As much as I can’t stand the guy on the field, he is certainly a funny guy and his opening scene in the film clearly displayed that.  I am not sure Coach Belichick would rush to debut on the silver screen, however I did find this interesting-

Sandler said both Bill Belichick and Tom Brady gave permission for their names to be used. "They're great guys and they were cool," Sandler said. "They like Rex and they knew it would be fun to have him be a Pats fan and they were totally game."

Here is a little more of what Rex had to say on his part.

"I tell you what, I definitely felt like a fish out of water, but it was fantastic," he said. "Sandler was hysterical. I am telling you, all the time he is this way-It was great. They make you feel good."

Another interesting note Rex was asked what other NFL coach Rex would like to do a comedic acting spot

"Bellichick" Rex responded. "I think it would be good, there is no doubt, He's a funny guy.  He just doesn't let people know it"

Don’t hold your breath Rex.  Below is a link of the movie trailer with a peak of Rex Ryan in Patriots colors. Check out “That’s My Boy” now playing in theatre’s everywhere!

http://www.nypost.com/video?freewheel=90081&sitesection=nypost&VID=23631328

Safe Pick Up-Safety James Ihedigbo Returns to Pats

The Patriots announced earlier this evening that they have re-signed safety James Ihedigbo.  James started a total of 12/16 regular season games for the Patriots last season after being primarily a special teamer in his career.  James was one of the few steady players in the back end of the Patriots secondary last season as the defensive backfield was a revolving door for Patriots the Patriots secondary in 2011.  With this signing James will join fellow safeties Patrick Chung, Steven Gregory, Josh Barrett, Tavon Wilson, Sergio Brown, Will Allen, and Nate Ebener.  This move was expected however I expected it to happen much sooner than this.  The Patriots secondary was absolutely pitiful last season and James stepped up into position following the unexpected release of Brandon Merriweather and James Sanders. I felt James held his own in the defensive backfield and showed he could start and even played with a bit of a mean streak.

 It was surprising to me that the Patriots did not make a move to re-sign Ihedigbo much sooner to ensure he would remain in New England.  Fortunately enough, James was still available and the Patriots went out and got him back.  This is a great move by the Patriots because on paper the Safety position doesn't really scream out to me in terms of premier caliber talent outside of Patrick Chung who even has his issues with injury.  The rest of the safeties on the roster are unknown factors.  Most of the players the Pats have at safety were special teamers or rookies.  It isn't possible to say it could not happen, however I think that would be asking a lot in hopes that Patrick Chung can stay healthy all season long and that one of those guys will just step up and assume a starting role and be able to perform at a high level.  Bringing back James Ihedigbo brings back a player that started for you and was a productive, durable football player for the Patriots defense last season.  Patriot’s fans should be very excited to have the familiar face of James Ihedigbo back in the Patriots secondary delivering hits.

Patriots Priorities Gronk>Welker

As most of you probably saw- the Patriots locked up elite play making tight end Rob Gronkowski with a six year extension in addition to his rookie deal making Rob Gronkowski a Patriot for the next 8 seasons. This is a very big move for the Patriots who have been ridiculed in the past for not paying talent. This is simply smart business locking up the best tight end in football now before the price could only increase over the next two seasons. What adds an interesting twist to all of this is wide receiver Wes Welker, who has been a model Patriot-still has yet to come to terms with a long term deal to remain in New England. The writing is on the wall guys. The future of the Patriots organization isn't a 31 year old Wes Welker. The future of the New England Patriots organization is looking very bright in the 31 1/2 inch hands of Rob Gronkowski. Wes Welker, a huge fan favorite in New England, is wanted in New England by Patriot Nation and I am sure would like to finish his career out in New England but what fans need to realize is this is a business.  There is no player that is bigger than the New England Patriots. Never has been and never will be.  It is part of “The Patriot Way”. 

The Patriots Organization have been one of if not THE most successful franchises in the NFL over the past decade and it has a lot to do with personnel moves.  The Patriots know when it is time to cut a player lose and have been able to make those hard decisions that other teams might not have.  Look at guys shipped out like Mike Vrabel and Richard Seymour. Those guys were players that the Patriots had tremendous success with and were back bones to much of the franchises success.  Those men were leaders.  Then there were guys like Randy Moss, Brandon Merriweather, Albert Haynesworth and most recently Chad Ocho Cinco.  When it was their time the Patriots got rid of them. The Patriots hold no player a higher standard of another.  As much as Wes Welker has been a model Patriot the Patriots shouldn’t over pay for a player because of past accomplishments and sacrifices.  The contract that should be given to Wes Welker should be at what his current worth is and what he will do from the day he signs and going forward into the future.

Wes Welker is 31 years old.  Welker is the best slot receiver in the NFL. Is Wes Welker an elite all around receiver? When you say the words elite in regards to the  wide receiver position I think of Calvin Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, Andre Johnson.  I do not think Wes Welker is on that elite tier of receivers.  I think Wes is a very good receiver that is successful partly because of the Patriots system and partly because of Tom Brady being the elite Quarterback he is.  Tom Brady had success before Welker and will have success after Welker.  Welker is reliable and a very good player but is Wes Welker great?  I would love to see Wes Welker in New England until he decides to call it quits as I am sure does Robert Kraft, Bill Belichick, and Tom Brady.  With that said, at a fair valued contract.  New England shouldn’t be paying Wes Welker elite money because in three years Wes Welker will likely be in the rear view of the Patriots and un needed.  The Patriots simply cannot pay everyone. 


I truly believe Wes Welker needs the Patriots more than the Patriots need Wes Welker. Guys like Aaron Hernandez who is only 22 years old and is a dynamic playmaker in the Patriots offense –deserves to get paid.  Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez have changed the tight end position in the NFL and had the most prolific dual tight end offense in the history of the NFL. My question to everyone out there who would like Wes Welker to get paid is this- Would you rather pay a impact young talent in Hernandez? Or pay a reliable aging talent in Welker?  Not sure if many of you have noticed but Aaron Hernandez is virtually a slot receiver in a tight ends body.  If Wes Welker were gone the slot role could be filled by Hernandez or how about the guy that backs up Wes Welker in Julian Edelman?  Every time Julian has stepped into Wes’s role he has been productive and has earned Tom Brady’s trust.  The reason Julian isn’t starting is because Wes Welker is in front of him. I know I sound like I am running Wes out of town but that is not the case at all.  My point is there are players on the roster that can step in and fill the slot position.  Will they be as good as Wes Welker? -Maybe? -Maybe not. Either way, the show must go on and will go on with or without Wes Welker in New England as long as Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick are calling the shots.

Agree? Disagree? Let me know in the Comments Section Pats People!

-Mike Onofrio
Follow me on Twitter @MikeOnofrio

Ocho has eyes on AFC East teams?

Chad Ocho Cinco may be out of New England but he may not be done in the AFC East. As I previously reported the Jets and Dolphins would be good fits for Ocho Cinco but he could easily fit on almost any AFC East team not named New England. The Miami Dolphins were reported to have worked him out late last week. This makes a ton of snce considering Maimi is extremely thin at the position after trading Brandon Marshall away to reunite with Quarterback Jay Cutler in Chicago. Chad Ocho Cinco would instantly become the Dolphins most talented receiver. This also would put a savy veteran in the mix to aid rookie quarterback Ryan Tannehill. Add in the lime light with Hard Knocks and it sounds like a match made in heaven for Ocho.  Time will tell. 

EXCLUSIVE: ANDRE CARTER HINTS RETURN TO PATS

Just a quick update- I have been trying to get an answer from Andre Carter to comment on his reported visit to New England. Finally I got a response. I asked if he would return to New England and he responded. Take a look at the screenshot below.

 When I brought this up to ESPN's Mike Reiss he mentioned that the Patriots do indeed have interest in bringing Andre Carter back to New England pending he is healthy. Mike also noted the Patriots have held off from issuing out jersey number 93 which is telling. It is only a matter of time until Andre Carter is back on the practice fields behind Gillette.

Stay tuned for updates here on Premium Pats!

Follow@MikeOnofrio

SOURCE: PATS GRONKOWSKI DO NEW DEAL

Pro Football Talk is reporting the Patriots and Tight End Rob Gronkowski have come to terms on a new deal.  Rob who is entering his third season on his rookie deal has already broke and set NFL records for single season TD's  and receptions for a Tight End. Details still to come.

My take- Gronkowski earns every penny he gets and is already considered by many as the best tight end in football.  Not only does he play at an extremely high level he is a high character guy with his volunteer work and is a fan favorite.  Mr. Kraft and Coach Belichick acknowledge this and give him a bump in salary.  The next question will be when will they extend him to ensure he is in Foxboro long term? Keep it locked down here on Premium Pats!


UPDATE: Adam Schefter is reporting a Six year extension worth up to 54 million.  Added with his current deal the Pats have Gronk locked up for the next eight seasons.  This is a very smart move by the Pats locking up the best tight end in the game for virtually the next decade.  This allows the Pats to use their franchise tag in upcomming seasons on guys like Welker and Hernandez when his deal expires in the next two seasons. Rob Gronkowski is now the highest paid tight end in the history of the NFL.  Rightfully so!

Just a thought-Imagine the celebration Gronk made after signing the new deal.

-Mike Onofrio
Premium Pats

@MikeOnofrio

REPORT: OCHO-OUT

I knew the report of Ocho leaving the Patriots facility to go to an eye doctor's appointment after only being on site for 10-15 miuntes seemed a bit fishy.  As it turns out I may be right as this one did not pass the sniff test.  Adam Schefter is now reporting

@AdamSchefter "After unsuccessfully trying to trade WR Ochocinco throughout the day Thursday, the Patriots are releasing him, per league source."

It was only a matter of time before the Patriots cut ties as he was having difficulty in OTA's still grasping the concepts of the Patriots Playbook.  The compettition was too much for Ocho with the Patriots adding familiar faces in Dant'e Stallworth and Jabar Gaffney who likely picked the offense right back up after both having success in the Patriots system previously.  On another note- this also shows the respect Bill Belichick has for a player like Chad Ocho Cinco by releasing him early enough so he can go to a fresh team and catch on for the upcoming season. Hopefully a team with a far less complex playbook.  Chad looks to still be in great physical shape but it is a case where he simply couldn't grasp the Patroits system mentally.  A top candidate to take a look at 85 would likely be AFC rival New York Jets.  Santonio Holmes and rookie wideout Stephen Hill are injured and the Jets love adding high profile players.  My money is the Jets at the very least kick the tires on Ocho Cinco.  Hopefully this will be a lesson learned by the Patriots.  Stay away from wideouts named Chad!

Last season Patriots fans were extatic with the trades for Chad Ocho Conco and Albert Haynesworth.  Not even a year later those moves both looked to be complete busts. You win some and you lose some I suppose!

-Mike Onofrio
Premium Pats

@MikeOnofrio

RUMORS FLY: OCHO DONE-ZO ?

Rumors are flying rampid.  Has Patriots wide reciever Chad Ocho Cinco been released by the Patriots? Chad Ocho Cinco has struggled to grasp the playbook even up to this point. Chad was reported to be in attendance at OTA's this morning but was sent home 10-15 minutes after arrival. He hasn't been seen this afternoon.  Also his Twitter bio no longer says Patriots Wide Reciever.  Simply Wide Reciever.  Stay Tuned for updates with this developing story. This is pure speculation to this point.


UPDATE: Adam Schefter of ESPN is reporting that sources can confirm that Chad Ocho Cinco is still with the Patriots and that he left practice early this morning to go to an eye doctors appointment.
-This could be good news for Patriots fans.  Maybe Chad can read his playbook better.

-Mike Onofrio
@MikeOnofrio

Roster Moves Spark Speculation

The New England Patriots announced the release of 3 players. Most notably second year Defensive End Markell Carter, and two undrafted rookies- tight end Nick Melillo, and offensive lineman Jon Opperud. The release of Markell Carter was the most surprising of the bunch.  Carter only 22, was a practice squad player the entirety of last season after being drafted in the 6^th round by the Pats.  Typically players don’t spend an entire season on the practice squad and are either called up to the roster or leave for another team.  The team showed Carter a sign of good faith by giving him a raise of more than 3 times a normal practice squad player would make. Markell has put on 25lbs since his combine weigh in at 255lbs. He was currently at 275lbs and was hopeful to carve a role for himself on the defense but that was cut short this afternoon despite hopes. With the release of one Carter, there has been great speculation another Carter signing might be in the works. 

Rumors began circulating yesterday that Defensive End Andre Carter was visiting with the Patriots after a tweet by ESPN Boston’s Mike Reiss. Jeff Howe is also confirming Carters presence at Gillette yesterday according to a source visiting with the medical staff and is indeed ahead of rehab schedule.

 The release of Markell Carter would make room to bring Andre Carter back into the fold. Andre despite tearing his left quadriceps late last December had 10 sacks and was one of eight Patriots to make the 2012 Pro Bowl.  Carter also tied the Patriots single game sack record at 4-a career best for him against the New York Jets. The Patriots have been in contact with Andre throughout his entire healing process.  Andre signed a one year deal with the Patriots in 2011 making him a Free Agent. Many teams placed a red flag on Carter because of his age (33) and his health which is telling as to why he is still on the market.  If not for his injury Carter would have likely been the second best pass rusher available in free agency behind Bill’s prize pickup Defensive End, Mario Williams.  The Patriots have been playing it smart and are just waiting to get the pass that Andre is indeed healthy and ready to go.  I expect the Patriots to close and make a move on him as early as the end of the week if he checks out to be healthy. If healthy Andre could significantly contribute as a starter and could be a mentor to first round draft pick Chandler Jones as well as third round pick Jake Bequette. Earlier this month on Twitter (@MikeOnofrio) I was asking how his rehab has been going and he told me well and that he was just waiting for the call.  When I asked him today he remained mum on the situation and did not respond. Take it for what you will- 

The Patriots have also announced the signing of tight end Bo Scaife (30) formerly of the Titans and last season the Bengals.

Interestingly enough Scaife was drafted by the Titans when Flloyd Reese was GM of the team.  Reese now serves as the Patriots “Senior Football Advisor” and likely played a role in acquiring him.  Two things come to mind when I look at this signing.

1. Patriots thin at tight end position in practice- With Gronkowski out of OTA practices healing from his ankle injury the Patriots are thin at bodies with only Aaron Hernandez, Daniel Fells, and undrafted rookie Brad Herman in the mix. Scaife is a solid well rounded tight end that could boost the depth at the position heading into training camp.

2. Is Daniel Fells not grasping what the Patriots are looking for ?  Daniel Fells has never been a typical pass catching tight end and is seen as more of a blocker.  Scaife could offer more versatility in that respect  and is more of a receiving tight end at 6’3 249.  Fell’s job might not be so safe as the third tight end on the roster.

Stay Tuned for Updates and Fresh Content!

-Mike Onofrio

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Premium Predictions: Can Ras-i Dowling Return to Relevance?

One of the things I am going to be doing this summer on Premium Pats is a column called a "Premium Predictions". This will give a bit of insight and information on some of the Patriots talents that are on the rise for the 2012 season. 


 To start with my inaugural post we are going to take a PREMIUM- up close and personal look at second year Patriots defensive back, Ras-i Dowling. After being selected with the 33rd overall pick in the 2011 NFL draft many Patriots fans raised some eyebrows with the selection as the Patriots traded out of the first round after selecting Colorado offensive tackle Nate Solder at pick 17.  Just a year prior the Patriots had drafted a rookie Pro Bowl cornerback in Devin McCourty.  Many questioned the need to draft yet ANOTHER cornerback so high in the draft.  Many of you might not have even known  who Ras-i Dowling even was.  Dowling, a star cornerback out of Virginia, was ranked the 6th best cornerback on NFLDraftScout.com and had a red flag for many teams coming out of college due to his oft injury concerns.  In 2010 Dowling battled a multitude of various injuries including knee, hamstring and ankle injuries and only appearing in 5 games for Virginia which really set his draft stock back. Looking at his measurables he has excellent size at 6'1 and 198lbs. 

Virginia cornerback's Coach Chip West gushed about Ras-i's unique skill set explaining what he saw while coaching Dowling.  


"I saw a good player who possessed good man coverage skills. With the size Ras-I has, one thing I'm not sure people understand is the type of movements he has. He moves fluently and possesses a unique skill set for a player that size."

Ras-i not only possesses great size, he recorded an official 4.46 40 time at the NFL Combine.  This combination of size and speed could prove to be an asset to the Patriots secondary. Ras-i was a team captain and leader at Virginia and was described by coaches to be a high character athlete. Another thing that jumps off the board when looking at him is the versatility that he can bring.  As any well educated Patriot fan may know Bill Belichick feels versatility is a valuable trait to carry as a player especially coming into the NFL as an unproven rookie talent.  Dowling was not only looming in the secondary of his high school in Chesapeake,Virginia- but he was also a capable receiver   recording 14 receptions for 255 yards and 4 touchdowns.  Ras-i even played sparingly at Quarterback.  The versatility Ras-i brings coupled with his unique skill set makes Ras-i an intriguing player to watch heading into the 2012 season.  Many of you may not remember Dowling nursing a leg injury during the 2011 pre season, but  what was telling on how Patriots coaching felt about him was Ras-i starting the first two games of the 2011 season before suffering a hip injury in week 2 against the San Diego Chargers. Ras-i was inserted into the starting lineup with no off-season program and limited practice time.  On October 29th 2011 the New England Patriots placed Ras-i Dowling on season ending injury reserve putting an abrupt end to the young defenders rookie campaign.  He recorded a total of 3 tackles.  The New England Patriots secondary ultimately struggled last season between player injuries and inconsistency. There was literally a revolving door in the secondary picking up guys off the street such as Antwan Molden and Sterling Moore. The secondary was in such despair that special teams captain Matthew Slater and Wide Receiver Julian Edelman has to take snaps on defense to fill the void on a last place ranked defense.  The secondary can't possibly be any worse this season.  Hopefully the secondary will return to form in 2012 with players returning from injury as well as the new additions of Stephen Gregory, 2012 draft picks Tavon Wilson, and Alphonso Dennard.  This summer Dowling will have a shot at reclaiming a starting spot opposite of Devin McCourty and will have a full NFL off season under his belt.  Last season with the lockout it may have hindered Dowling's performance and could have very well been a factor in sustaining his injury.  Ras-i has reportedly stayed in the Foxboro area all off-season to rehab his hip injury. Ras-i appears healthy and participating in OTA's as the Patriots will be counting on him to have a vital role heading into the 2012 season. Here are a few comments from Patriots coach Bill Belichick on Ras-i Dowling following the 2011 NFL Draft- 

"He's got a lot of qualities that we like in a corner, Bellichick explains,"He's a smart kid, been in a good program, done well in that system. We can see him playing all the different types of coverages that, at some point or another, we would use. He's a good tackler, plays well in the kicking game, so I think he'll be a good addition for us."

 With the unique size of Dowling it was asked if he could potentially project to Safety in the Patriots system.  Here is more of what Coach Belichick had to say-


 "He hasn't played safety," Belichick said of Dowlings play in college.  "I think he has the size, ball skills and tackling ability that you could probably make an argument that he could project in there if you wanted him to. I think for right now, we'll play him at the corner, but he is big. He does tackle well. He's tough. He's got good range, good ball skills. I wouldn't say that he couldn't play in there, but that isn't really what he's done."  

Where Ras-i Dowling will fit in remains to be seen but what is certain is Ras-i Dowling will have his chance to compete for a starting roster spot in an unproven secondary starved for capable talents and will be one of the many developing story lines we will be following closely throughout the summer.  Do you think Ras-i Dowling will bounce back from the injury plagued start to his NFL career? Can Ras-i Dowling emerge and become the play maker that Patriots Nation is salivating for? Share your thoughts, questions, and comments in the comments section below! Thanks for checking out my blog and stay tuned for more content!

-Mike Onofrio
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Welcome

I just would like to quickly take the time to officially welcome you to my Patriots Blog here on BlogSpot. I am not sure who will be following along, this is all new to me and is my first blog EVER- so please bear with me as I get the hang of things. The main objective is to try to share my knowledge and insight with the current happenings of the New England Patriots. I have been a fan of the Patriots since a youngster but over the past 5 years I have become an absolute addict and I hope you will share the same passion as I have for the team and we can make this blog something special together. This isn't about me, this is about Patriot Nation. I just want to be a small part of your daily readings if possible. Thanks and be sure to follow me on twitter !

@MikeOnofrio.

-Mike Onofrio
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