New England Patriots 2008 Preview and Predictions

If you've already jumped on the New England Patriots bandwagon for the 2008 season, you might want to hop back off. While forums, comments, and websites around cyberspace are discussing another perfect regular season, the Pats know they have problems, and BIG ONES. The only question is, how will Hoodie transform this team into the powerhouse of just a year ago?

The short answer, he won't. Sure their high-flying offensive combination of Brady to Moss will still notch TDs, they won't even be close to their 2007 total. Wes Walker will still get 70 of his 100+ catches from little dump offs, screen passes, and 5-yard curls, so long as he isn't hampered by a nagging groin injury all season. Then of course the offensive line will continue to keep Tom's jersey clean for the following week's game, but in the end 2008 will be different.

Most notably on defense, where the New England Patriots loss of CB Asante Samuel (Philly) and CB Randall Gay (New Orleans) who combined for 9 interceptions in 07', plus Junior Seau who still isn't ruling out a comeback. Their secondary now rests on the shoulders of Ellis Hobbs, Fernando Bryant (Detroit), James Sanders, and Rodney Harrison who total only 6 interceptions between them. Hobbs will get the brunt of the responsibility early on and will have to improve on his 1 INT total from last year.

Does this mean they won't make playoffs? Of course not. Although the Jets and Dolphins have been gearing up for the 08' season with some serious moves, they still can't match what New England brings to the table. However, don't be surprised if the Jets pull off a split against them if Favre played anything like he did last year, especially when they travel to New York. Overall the Pats have about 8 games with pass-happy offenses so if you're a gambler, expect the over/unders this year to be ridiculously high. If they're not, you might make some lute.

You may be sitting there thinking, "Yea right. There offense is unmatched in the AFC except." My answer to that is, there is now film on how to slow their defense and everyone knows after you run something to perfection one year, the second year never reaches the same expectations. The good news is Belli-man is always ready for the challenge so you can bet he'll have a few things up his sleeve.

2008 Prediction

Even though the Jets have one of the easiest schedules in the league this year, New England will stand atop the AFC East. The difference will be that they go about 12-4 this year. Oh, and don't be surprised if they start off the season 1-1. They travel to the Jets in week 2. A first round bye in the playoffs and an overall #2 in the AFC will be most likely, just behind San Diego. Not having home field advantage will hurt them in the end.

**If you're looking for more information on the upcoming 2008 NFL season check out the resource box to the left hand side of the page.**