Changing Whether

Only in New England can the average temperature go from the 30’s one week up to 60 the next. And as unpredictable as the weather is, the Patriots can keep up with Mother Nature, and in some respects trump her spontaneity.

This week gives us numerous examples of how the Pats do the unexpected. However they conduct business, the question isn’t the decision, but what it means for the team. And to think: It’s only Tuesday.

Whether Adalius Thomas was benched or it really was a tactical move, the expectations for the veteran LB were higher than his production thus far. The injury to LB Jerod Mayo briefly affected Thomas’ role on the team as New England flip-flopped between 3-4 to 4-3 and back. But to have just one sack after six games when he was the star of training camp is very disappointing. Thomas will be back in the lineup maybe as soon as Sunday. Will we see a different Thomas for the rest of the year? The proof will be in his play.

Whether the Patriots released Joey Galloway or kept him, New England still is in search for a productive third receiver. Denver wasted little time signing WR Jabar Gaffney early in free agency. Gaffney averaged 37 receptions for 458 yards. But his real contribution was moving the chains. Of his 38 receptions last year, 26 were for first downs. It was the same story in2007 as 25 of 36 receptions were for first downs.

Galloway couldn’t do it and Julian Edelman gets the first shot to replace Gaffney. The converted quarterback from Kent State appears to be growing into the role as he doubled his receptions and almost tripled his yards from one the Denver loss to the Tennessee win.

It’s no guarantee that Edelman will keep the job, as third round draft pick Brandon Tate is eligible to be activated from the physically unable to perform list. The former North Carolina Tar Heel has been recovering from an ACL tear suffered during his senior year. He has the edge in experience over Edelman so Tate could quickly get a feel for the offense. Whoever loses the competition possibly becomes the kick/punt returner by default.