Tonight is the Patriots 2nd preseason game. We didn't see any of the starters in game 1, but that should change tonight. Here are some things to watch for.
- How is Ochocinco picking up the offense. There have been rumors that he could be cut, although I very much doubt that there have been a lot of reports saying he is having a hard time picking up the offense. Tonight, I want to see how many times Brady looks to him, and if he is making the correct cuts. We will now by either Brady yelling at him, or a couple passes being thrown away.
- Matt Light won't be playing tonight, so it will be interesting to see how Solder does protecting Brady. This is really a big deal, because obviously the Patriots can't afford Brady getting hurt. Plus, it's the Patriots first round draft pick and it'd be nice if he looked good. Hard to focus on an offensive lineman, but you'll know if Brady is being pressured a lot.
- Timing... Not just for Ochocinco, but for the whole first unit. I have heard they look rusty, so I am interested to see how the timing routes look with Welker can Branch. A lot of what they do is those little quick passes, and those are all about timing. It'll be obvious if it isn't there.
- I dont think Haynesworth is playing tonight, so looking for the whole 3-4 vs 4-3 thing is useless. Still, I would like to see the development of Cunningham, who I thought looked very good in the first preseason game. Things should be even easier tonight if Wilfork is playing.
- Brandon Meriweather could be in some trouble. We keep hearing rumors of bringing safeties in for a look. Maybe he is on his way out, or maybe this is just a little kick in the ass. Either way, he needs to punish people tonight, and not get beat deep.
- Ryan Mallett - Looked awesome in his first game, but I would love to see him go against something other then the 3rd string defense. Still, I like watching this kid play he has a cannon.
Game starts at 7:30pm
