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With a victory Week 2, the New York Jets would start with an improbable 2-0 record. Their opponent of course will be arch rival New England Patriots. On paper there actually appears to be trouble for head coach Bill Belichick’s club. A once powerful passing attack featuring two star tight ends obviously has changed. Quarterback Tom Brady, as everyone knows, also lost stud slot receiver Wes Welker in free agency. Now his main targets consist of names like Julian Edelman and Kenbrell Thompkins. Danny Amendola was supposed to take over as his team’s prime option in the middle as his playing style is similar to Welker’s as a relatively short player with sure hands. Amendola, however, struggles to stay healthy. It is unlikely that he plays in this contest. Despite a lack of surrounding stable parts Brady was able to rally New England in their opener against the Buffalo Bills. Brady finished this game 29-of-52 for 288 yards with two touchdowns and an interception.
Of course this future Pro Football Fall of Fame signal caller arguably enjoyed his greatest success in such circumstances. The Patriots won three Super Bowls with players like Troy Brown, David Givens, and Deion Branch. Balance was also present during these years as running backs made important plays.
When Brady assumed more responsibility they had success but never again won it all. On Thursday they encounter a secondary that had mixed results against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While there were knocked down passes Bucs receiver Vincent Jackson made plays against cornerbacks Antonio Cromartie and rookie Dee Milliner. They still face challenges this week from these receivers. Being the field general he is I expect Brady to pick on both. Cromartie is a veteran so he should be ready, but Milliner continues to learn so errors will happen. Big plays still need to be minimized if Gang Green is to pull off this upset.
Nick Mamary is a New York Jets writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @NickMamary1, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google
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