Elementary, My Dear Watson

"Deion who?" The New England Patriots could not have asked this question more emphatically had they emblazoned it on their helmets (which, by the way, would STILL be better than "Flying Elvis") in their 40-0 win in Game 3 of the "exhibition" season.

In a frighteningly precise dismantling of the Washington (originally, Boston) Redskins, the 3-time Super Bowl Champions showed how diverse their offensive juggernaut can be in 2006-7. On this night, it was the "air strike" mode, with Brady firing 17-30 for 231 yards. The most prolific target of the two-time Super Bowl MVP was the amazing Benjamin Watson, who netted 97 yards and a TD on 8 receptions. Watson has the potential, in our view, to be the next world-class tight end in the NFL--if he isn't already. He can do it short, long, medium range, any way you need it.

Continuing on the diversity theme, rookie running back Laurence Moroney didn't carry the ball much (given the emphasis on the air game), but when he did, it was again impressive. We continue to believe that this team will show more offensive balance than at any time in the recent past. What do you look for as a defense? Even without Branch, the options are almost limitless. Of course, add Branch back, and you have to feel that this team is well-positioned to be right back at the big dance.

PUP Tent-Ative Good News On Rodney

It's always dangerous to put too much emphasis on the health of one player when assessing the fortunes of a professional football team. There are just too many moving and interchangeable parts that have to mesh perfectly to produce a winner. God knows, we've all learned this lesson from Coach B in the wake of 3 Super Bowl Championships.

But, I don't care. Toss it all to the wind. It says here that a healthy Rodney Harrison is disproportionately more important to the attainment of another ring than almost any other person in the Greater Foxboro area. Here's why: Harrison brings an intensity, leadership and confidence that was sorely lacking on last year's defense. Perhaps as importantly, his style of play allows for the more proper use of other key defensive components. Basically, he allows for the right people to play in the right spots. He makes the whole squad better by his presence.

Even if I couldn't marshall these reasons, I still say Harrison is important. You know it. You can feel it. You can see it in the buzz at Training Camp. Rodney is back. By the way, where is the Super Bowl this year?