Top things to keep an eye on for the Patriots Chiefs matchups today.

I’m not much of a prognosticator despite making pickem’s and Season previews.  With that in mind, a look at the teams today gives us a chance to do some more analytical work, something that is more up my alley.

The Patriots Secondary: This is well worth keeping an eye on after the patriots released starting cornerback Fernando Bryant as part of the final roster cuts and Jason Webster the week before.  New England will start either rookie Terrence Wheatley or veterans Lewis Sanders or even recent pickup Deltha O’Neal.  My money is on Sanders.  I think he was one of the better corners in camp, at least on a consistent basis.  Is he starter material?  Houston thought so when they signed him away from the Browns, and Cleveland thought so but didn’t wan to pay him for it.  On the opposite side, Ellis Hobbs returns looking to rebound from a game he’d rather forget and injuries, which held him back in that game.

The Patriots Linebackers:  If you want one thing to keep an eye on which could spell trouble for the Patriots is the linebacker against the run.  Kansas City brings one of the best running backs in the league with Larry Johnson.  Though KC’s offensive line may have trouble opening holes, Johnson has the ability to make his own.  It will be up to Tedy Bruschi and Jerod Mayo to slow down Johnson when he does hit those holes in the middle.

Brady’s Timing:  Tom Brady missed the entire preseason reportedly due to a foot injury. With no live action to shake the rust off, Brady will need to shake the rust off quickly if the passing game is to have a chance.  Matt Cassel and Kevin O’Connell didn’t fare well in Brady’s stead.  Is the timing there?  Is Welker back from his injury; is Moss ready to go; can the Patriots shake off the Super Bowl hangover? 

Offensive Line:  The o-line has had to fight through injuries, some off field troubles, questions about their performance from last season and more.  How they respond is the question.  OT Ryan O’Callaghan is out for the season on I/R.   Starting OG Stephen Neal is on PUP until at least week 7.  Backup OL Russ Hochstein is ailing with a groin injury.  OT Matt Light missed a significant amount of time with an undisclosed injury. Those are just some of the storylines.  The Chiefs have one of the best group of young defensive linemen in the league.  If the line can’t protect Brady this could be a real problem with Brady’s foot concerns.

Running Backs: Laurence Maroney is expected to carry the load in the backfield. New England picked up LaMont Jordan to add depth after concerns about Sammy Morris’ recovery. Morris still ahs some fire left and should provide veteran stability between Maroney and Jordan.  If Maroney can’t get on track, expect the Patriots to have on hesitation moving to the other backs to get things rolling.