2014 Season Preview: 5 Questions with Musket Fire
By Mike Praser
Dec 1, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) spikes the football after a touchdown reception in the first quarter against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
What do you feel the Patriots weakest link is going into Training Camp?
"The Patriots weakest link would have to be either the tight end position, or the depth (or lack thereof) at the linebacker spot. If Rob Gronkowski can return healthy, then we will have no worries in that area. However if he struggles with injury again, Brady’s bunch will not look elite in 2014. As for the linebackers, New England has a terrific starting trio in Jamie Collins, Jerod Mayo, and Dont’a Hightower, but there is not much talent after that. Steve Beauharnais is a guy that will have to step in case of an emergency this coming year."
Can you tell us about a player on the roster who hasn’t reached the spotlight but you feel will be a difference maker in 2014?
"I’m going to go out on a limb here, and say undrafted free agent Justin Jones. This kid is an athletic freak, and I think if developed properly, he could become a solid contributor on this offense. Jones is a tight end, but he stands at 6’8, and he has some decent speed, and a quality set of hands. Based on all of the reports coming out of minicamp, he has played well, and could possibly get some quality starting time come September. I have high hopes for this kid. (Of course now that I say that, he’ll be cut next week)."
Jan 11, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) celebrates with center Ryan Wendell (62) after a touchdown during the fourth quarter of the 2013 AFC divisional playoff football game against the Indianapolis Colts at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
I know it’s ridiculously early, but I know everyone looks at the schedule in the offseason trying to predict wins and losses. How do you feel about the matchup against the Bears?
"I’m going to be honest here, I think the Patriots will have no trouble with Chicago. They got lucky by having this tilt in Foxboro, where Tom Brady and company are nearly unbeatable, and I just like how they match up with the Bears. Chicago brings a talented (and huge) group of receivers to the table, but the Pats can counter with Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner, who I think can handle Jay Cutler’s bunch just fine. Offensively for the Pats, their ability to both run and pass the ball will come in handy, especially when faced with the aggressive Chicago secondary. As of right now, I think New England comes away with a double-digit win come game-time."
What do you think Bears fans? Will the Patriots plow through the Bears in this 8th matchup of the season? Or will the Bears surprise the Patriots with an upset win in Foxboro? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.
I want to thank Cyrus Geller from Musket Fire for taking the time out to answer our 5 Questions about the matchup between the Chicago Bears and the New England Patriots. Make sure you check out Musket Fire for all your news and info about the New England Patriots.