New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) looks into the crowd after giving his team a 27-7 lead with a touchdown pass to Shane Vereen (34) against the Denver Broncos during the second quarter of action at Gillette Stadium. (AAron Ontiveroz, The Denver Post)
WATCH:
THREE UP
1. Patriots: Biggest victory came off the field when Tom Brady’s suspension was vacated. Not even Ernie Adams could watch grainy film and diagram a better courtroom defense.2. Seahawks: Young, talented, brash. The window is wide open to win another Super Bowl, though Kam Chancellor’s holdout has become a huge concern. Legion of Boom loses thump without him.
3. Packers: Aaron Rodgers can turn a scarecrow into a Pro Bowl receiver. At least that’s the thinking with Jordy Nelson lost for the season.
THREE DOWN
1. Buccaneers: Jameis Winston looks like player he was last year in college: big arm, too many forced throws into coverage.2. Redskins: As football teams go, the Redskins make a great reality show. Too much drama, too many holes on defense, particularly on the edges.
3. Jaguars: Finished last in scoring the past two seasons. Overpaid for tight end Julius Thomas, who will miss the first few weeks with a broken bone in his hand. Sounds about right.
