Is Tom Brady Falling off That "Cliff"

Sep. 08, 2017

Yesterday was the start of the 2017-2018 NFL season and it did not disappoint. The Kansas City Chiefs were able to beat the New England Patriots in Foxborough 42-27. Now before we talk about Brady, I must point out that the defense didn't look like the caliber defense we were accustomed to seeing last season and with all the added addition to the secondary we all assumed the Patriots would have been undefeated this season but losing a season opener is not a great start. The defense allowed over 500+ offensive yards to a Chiefs offense that has a very lackluster offensive talent but was able to expose a top 10 ranked defense last season.

Now Brady came out the game strong marching down the Chiefs defense all of the first half's of the game. Not only was Brady able to stand in the pocket, he was unbothered with a clean pocket to step into and make great throws. But something changed in the second half the Chiefs fierce pass rush started connecting and Brady started to get rattled. Brady finished the game with a completion rating of 44.4% (16-36 passing) and QBR of 35.1. I know this is the first game of the season and its 15 games left but can a FORTY YEAR-OLD quarterback lead you an entire NFL season and witnessing last night game I don't believe so. Brady was overthrowing/underthrowing receivers, He couldn't connect with Gronk or Hogan. The One touchdown he did throw was overturned and he looked like a 40-year-old quarterback playing football.

Lastly, understand with Julian Edelman gone for the season Tom Brady messes he's favorite go to target. Gronk did not look like himself either and the offense doesn't have chemistry yet. The only saving grace for the Patriots is every time they lose a season opener they win the Super Bowl (2001, 2003, 2014).

Of course the Patriots are the Patriots, anything is possible...