2011 NFL Team Preview
New England Patriots
2010 Record: 14-2
2010 Record ATS (Against the Spread): 10-5-1
Outlook:
Anytime Tom Brady is on the field, watch out defenders. The guy's is the most pure passer and accurate passer that I have ever seen. And if he is not, then he is right up there in the company of Johnny Unitas and Joe Montana for sure. So anytime this guy suits up there is a better than average chance for a win regardless of who they are playing. Coach Bill Belichick isn't so great. Any coach would look like a genius with Brady at the helm. They drafted him in the 6th round so it's not like they knew what they were doing anyway. Belichick had to start Brady because of the injury to Bledsoe, not because he is some great coach or talent scout.
Strengths: Brady won the offensive player of the year award with 3900 yards, 36 touchdowns and only four interceptions. Those re unheard of accuracy number in the NFL. There is no more Randy Moss but they don't need him. They have two talented 2nd year players in Gronkowski and Hernandez. Last year these two payers combine for 1100+ yards and 16 td's. That right there neutralizes Moss' departure.
Weaknesses: N The defense is a little weaker than years past but still has some stars. Last year they were not all that great. They were 30th in the league in passing yards allowed. The way to beat the Patriots this year is to exploit holes in defense and pass the ball for a lot of yards and Td's and hopefully they won't be able to keep up with you.
Betting Prognosis: Betting the New England Patriots may be tricky. This team will be decent but maybe not a powerhouse like years past. And the odds makers are always favoring the Pats by a large amount.
Key Matchups:
Week 1 at Miami - This game against an in conference rival week one will tell you a lot about the Patriots. This is game the Partiots usually have no problem with but we are thinking Miami +7 is the play here.
Week 2 vs. San Diego - Two traditional AFC powerhouses square off in New England and there should be some fireworks. The Pats will be favored by 5-7 points.
Week 5 vs. Jets - New England's Nemesis of the last few years. This should be a good test for the Pats. This is a game they may lose outright. Bet against them if they are favored by 3 or more.
