Pats outsoar Eagles, 24 - 12

In what was probably one of the most busiest weeks of the Pats preseason this year we saw certain players come and go, but I have never seen a player come in and make an impact as NT Ted Washington(1T) did on such a short notice.

This week he will get to stick it to his old team along with LB Ro Colvin as the Chicago Bears come to town this Wednesday night.

As for those who left us, it was obvious with CB Otis Smith and P Daniel Pope.

Otis was injured late last season, and never really saw much playing or practice time so far, which led me to believe he was still lame with an injury. This helped my guy CB Asante Samuel's chances to making the team.

P Daniel Pope's writing was on the wall when he missed one field goal during the Redskins game last week, but I don't think that had anything to do with it, or his punting.

As I said last week, K Adam Vinatieri missed two FG's and a PAT. Pope was holding on all three, so it seems P Ken Walter buys Adam lunch for this week.

For the third week straight I'm going to get right into the play of the defense, and mention that earlier this year a lot of analyst and writers had the Patriots acquisition of LB Ro Colvin, the best move of the off-season.

Now I don't know if preseason counts as off-season still, but the addition of NT Ted Washington has changed this already dangerous defense into a squad that could set a s**tload of records if they can remain healthy and stay away from the bug that has stricken all three centers.

The four time Pro bowler drew immediate double coverage from the Eagles offensive line and allowed some serious pressure from the outside.

The pass rush at times harassed QB Donovan McNabb (19/12 for 111 yds), and forced him to fumble.

LB's Roman Phifer (5T and 1FF), Ro Colvin (2T) and DL Ty Warren racked up single sacks while Asante Samuel (3T) and Willie McGinest (2T) picked up sack assists.

Another change in the defense was with the problem I had mentioned for the past two games. It seemed they were giving up crucial plays to the middle of the field.

NT Ted Washington brought what they needed to the table, and it showed as the Pats D held the Eagles running game to 51 yards on 14 carries.

Last night the secondary proved how dangerous it's going to be for opposing WR's when CB Ty Law upended WR James Thrash, who landed hard on his helmet and was motionless for almost 10 minutes.

Players, staff and fans watched with prayers and thoughts as Thrash was placed on the board, and taken from the field. By game's end it was reported Thrash had sprained his neck, suffered a concussion and was later seen walking around in the locker room after the game.

Last night QB Tom Brady (24/14 for 148 yds, 3TD's) started out sloppy. Brady also took a 10-yard sack and fumbled while trying to escape the pocket.

The WR's also struggled with some missed opportunities due to poor timing, after five minutes into the game things began to come together as the Pats just made mincemeat out of Eagles CB Troy Vincent.

With the WR corps finishing the game with 201 yards total.

WR David Patten (5/81 yds. and 2 TD's) led the pack showing why he is probably the best end zone receiver on this team.

Troy Brown (4/34 yds), Dedric Ward (1/37 yds.), Deion Branch (1/10 yds).

TE Daniel Graham (3/21 yds) had some touches with one TD reception.

Brady also spread the ball around to the RB's and FB's, but the impressive moment for the FB's came when Fred McCrary dove over the pile for a first down conversion.

The RB situation wasn't any clearer last night with Kevin Faulk (10/39 yds) atop of the chart, but fumbling twice. Antowain Smith (14/26 yds) was quiet and Patrick Pass (7/16 yds) continued to climb the depth chart.

By week four, this could be a mess with Mike Cloud returning. QB Damon Huard (4/8 58 yds) got the look and then got the hook after throwing two interceptions bringing in Rohan Davey (1/4)to finish the game.

The o-line looked iffy, but it was understandable as the Pats lost their number two and three centers last night.

I don't foresee them spending big money on a replacement because whoever comes in will be short term at best.

Special teams saw some action when the Eagles returner dropped the ball, and LB Don Davis recovered it.

Then seeing some time returning punts WR Troy Brown got the look along with Kevin Faulk who fumbled one away.

With one game to go, I will be able to make my predictions on the final roster spots and upcoming season.

Right now I can tell you that if the Pats defense can remain healthy look for them to lead the league in sacks.

Comments? Email me at Sinista1@msn.com