5 things to watch: Patriots

[Raji]

There really isn’t a whole lot that should be drawn from the Patriots first two preseason games, given how little the regulars play. That should change a bit tonight.

Traditionally, the third game is deemed the most significant as the first units on offense and defense generally play the bulk of the time. While the Pats have yet to generate much in the way of enthusiasm with their play in the opening two games, that could change with a stronger showing tonight against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Keep in mind, however, that Bill Belichick is operating on a short week, which may alter the usual plan for enhanced playing time for the starters.

Of note, this will mark Asante Samuel return to Gillette Stadium. It will be the first time that Pats fans get to see their former shutdown corner, who signed a six-year, $57 million free-agent contract with the Eagles.

Here are five things to keep an eye on:

1. Will the franchise suit up?

Pats quarterback Tom Brady returned to practice on Wednesday but it’s no sure bet he’ll play tonight. Thus far, the Pats have erred on the side of caution with Brady’s right foot injury. It’s yet to be seen whether the foot has healed enough for the quarterback to see his first action of the preseason.

Brady’s appearance Wednesday would suggest the foot is getting better and should calm some fears. If he does play, which now appears a possibility, all eyes will be on his foot and whether he’s hampered at all. If he doesn’t play, and goes on to miss the preseason finale against the Giants next week in the Meadowlands, the debate will rage on just how hurt he is and how that might affect the team’s early-season play.

2. Backup plan, part III.

Thus far, Matt Cassel, Matt Gutierrez and Kevin O’Connell haven’t made many feel confident that the offense would be in good hands without Brady. Cassel has taken the brunt of criticism, given he has failed to put the team in the end zone in roughly three-plus quarters of action over two games. While he looked a bit better against the Bucs, he still hasn’t instilled much confidence. Time is running out. Gutierrez wasn’t particularly good in the preseason opener, and while rookie O’Connell has looked good in spurts, he still has a long way to go.

3. Getting in the running

With the exception of LaMont Jordan’s strong performance against Baltimore’s second and third units in the preseason opener, the running game hasn’t looked particularly good. Laurence Maroney has had a few decent runs, but more of his carries have either gone for no gain or negative yardage. Same for Sammy Morris. Granted, the offensive line has been depleted with injuries, but more is going to be expected from this unit going forward.

4. A safety net

This could be our first, and perhaps only look at Rodney Harrison this preseason. The veteran, who was initially on the physically unable to perform list, has been at practice this week. And, given he’s had a little more time to digest the playbook, this might be a better indicator of how John Lynch might be employed. Will he play side-by-side with Rodney, or in sub packages?

5. Cornerback play

With Asante Samuel making his return to Gillette Stadium, it’s natural for Patriots fans to keep en even more watchful eye on cornerbacks Ellis Hobbs and Fernando Bryant.
Hobbs is still rounding into form after coming off the physically unable to perform list, while Bryant is trying to nail down a spot in the starting lineup.

Rookie Terrence Wheatley will likely get more time, as will Jonathan Wilhite, who figures to see his first action since returning from injury.
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Raji