Patriots-Raiders Game Observations
- On the Patriots first drive, I was surprised not to see the Patriots offensive line (particularly Logan Mankins) be more defensive of Tom Brady when he was thrown to the ground by Richard Seymour (it was called a penalty). It seemed like a play which the offensive line could’ve taken personal offense at the treatment of their quarterback by an opposing player, after the whistle. Seymour also later threw Brady to the ground on a running play where Seymour was called offside.
- On a third down completion by Jason Campbell in the second quarter, Sergio Brown could’ve attempted to swat the ball out of the air, but he chose to attempt a hit and in so doing ducked his head and missed everyone. Hard to believe thats what he would be coached to do.
- This may be a factor of increased zone coverage by the Patriots, but it seemed like Devin McCourty had a much better day. When his name isn’t mentioned, its often a good thing (this year).
- On a third quarter play by the Raiders, Brandon Spikes blitzed up the middle and was cut down by Darren McFadden. Spikes tried a spin move but didn’t deviate from the line he was on and it was easy for McFadden to cut him. Campbell completed to Boss for 20 yards on the play.
- One thing I noticed stemming from the increased rushing in this game (from both teams) is that all the drives were much longer, which resulted in fewer possessions, and therefore each possession had greater value, and the Patriots did a great job only settling for a punt three times.
- Although it didn’t really impact the game’s outcome, the Patriots four consecutive runs without getting a touchdown inside the 5-yard line near the end of the game is worrying.
