Thursday Night Football

a blog by La Kifo

The Patriots will host the Houston Texans tonight, for some prime time football. 

So, without Garoppolo starting tonight, there are a few things on the line for the Patriots. The first of which is an affirmation of reaching for Brisset on draft day. Jacoby was the fifth QB taken in 2016, behind Christian Hackenberg and in front of Cody Kessler. We should all know my opinion of the former NC State quarterback, the day after the draft and as of right now I'm sticking behind that. He played well in relief of Garoppolo on Sunday, and had a good preseason against guys who work at Taco Stands now. But the real insight towards the kids talent will be tonight, prime time start at home. He should play well in this game. 

The second proving point for the Patriots is mainly Bill Belichicks. This has been somewhat of a talking point all over the radio this short football week. We know that Brady and Belichicks success have coincided, we also know what happened in 2008 with Matt Cassel. But that season is more grey than black or white. You could make an argument either praising Belichick for his work without Brady or you could chastise the man for taking a team that just a season before was undefeated in the regular season and missing the playoffs. This four game stretch without Brady, and now without Garoppolo for at least one game is a large indicator of which came first the chicken or the egg.  

The final might be seen as a stretch but it should be considered in the realm of possibility. The overall play of the team and the play of Brisset could be a factor in the teams decision between Garoppolo and Brady. If Brisset comes out and performs at an above average level, and the team plays enough to earn a win, then I think it's fair to say this would be an indication that the Patriots will stick with Brady until he rides off into the sunset. With Brisset playing well on a short week, limited time to prepare, I think it gives the Patriots and Belichick a lot more confidence in their quarterback development and scouting/evaluation department. Brisset playing well means that both of those engines are running at peak efficiency. It means they knew who to take from watching him, talking with him, and collecting references of him. Then it also means that they have  the ability to coach guys up, get them to play at their talents ceiling. So the Patriots, in this scenario, wouldn't be scared of losing a potential top 10 quarterback because they made Jimmy Garoppolo a top ten quarterback. On the other hand, if things do not turn out the way of sunshine's and rainbows, then they might be inclined to do the opposite. Get rid of Brady and keep Garoppolo. 

I love Tom, we all should as fans. So that's why I'm hoping I have to eat the shit I spoke about Brisset, and of course I never want the Patriots to lose. I got the Patriots winning by 6 tonight, Sportsbook.ag has got the line at -1. Obviously if you're looking for some action, take that to the bank. Special teams should be a big factor in this game for the Patriots, as well as the secondary play and the running attack. I expect to see Brisset running around the field and a lot of LeGarrette Blount.