On offense

Buried under the news of the week was one reception that went for three yards. Isolated, it's not a big deal. It's a short reception during a second quarter drive. But that catch was on 2nd and 1 and resulted in a first down. It extended a drive that resulted in the 10-yard touchdown pass from Matt Cassel to Randy Moss. Even more relevant, the receiver on the play was Kelley Washington.

I have to admit I was scratching my head over who caught that ball. But when I saw the name on the back of the jersey, it hit me. "Oh yeah! Kelley Washington! Wait a minute...Washington's playing offense?"

Washington, in his second year with the Patriots, had his first catch since joining New England in 2007. He was a productive third receiver with Cincinnati his first two years, but his numbers tumbled in the last two seasons as he totaled just 19 receptions in '05 and '06.

The Pats probably had big plans in mind when they signed him as part of the receivers renovation last year. Washington, with Wes Welker and Donte Stallworth, were going to be the explosive targets Tom Brady was in dire need of.

But a little trade for WR Randy Moss on day two of the NFL Draft changed Kelley's role from competing for playing time to playing for a roster spot.

Washington found a niche on special teams and made his share of plays. I know he downed punts deep in enemy territory and, I if I remember correctly, he even blocked a punt.

That hard work is paying off now that it looks like Washington will be a part of the offense, and not a moment too soon. Defenses will turn most of their attention towards Moss, and Welker will see his share coverages. Cassel will have to depend on Jabar Gaffney and Washington when his first two options are covered.

I also like that Washington is 6-3. We've seen what an advantage Moss' height is. Having another big target capable of snatching passes over the heads of smaller defenders would be valuable in the red zone. As the fourth wide out, Washington should draw favorable match-ups against weak links in the secondary.

So one catch for three yards isn't much, but Washington has to start somewhere. I expect Kelley will add to those numbers quickly.