Well, football is finally back.  After all the draft preparations, OTA’s, mini-camps, trades, free agent signings, and grueling training camp practices, the Patriots are finally ready to shake off the rust and play their first pre-season game, this one on the road at Philly.

There’s no question what the number one story is: the return of Tom Brady.  Brady will definitely playin his first live-game action since September 2008 tonight, that’s not a question.  But there are questions.  How much will Brady play?  A series?  Two?  A quarter?  Also, how is Brady going to play?  Will he show confidence in the pocket?  How will he react to taking his first hit (I think every person in New England will be holding their breath the first time that happens).

Ultimately, I believe Tom will play two or three series, depending on how he performs out of the gate.  And based on the confidence and ability he has shown thus far in camp, Patriots fans will get to see the Tom Brady of old.

While most eyes will likely be on Tom Brady tonight, there are many other positions that Patriots fans should keep their eyes on.  At quarterback, Brian Hoyer, Andrew Walter, and Kevin O’Connell are likely fighting for one or two spots.  At cornerback, the up and coming Jonathan Wilhite will try to hold off veteran Shawn Springs, with youngsters Terrence Wheatley and Darius Butler also in the mix.  At tight end, the Patriots have Ben Watson, David Thomas, Alex Smith, and Chris Baker; all looking to secure roster spots.  Running back; who will emerge as the primary back on first and second downs?  And at outside linebacker, Shawn Crable, Pierre Woods, and Tully Banta-Cain will all be looking to earn playing time/roster spots, while newcomer Derrick Burgess will don his number 49 Patriots jersey for the first time.

Players to Watch

1. Tom Brady, QB, #12

2. Terrence Nunn, WR, #10

3. Gary Guyton, ILB, #59

4. Jonathan Wilhite, CB, #24

5. Pat Chung, SS, #25

6. Sebastian Vollmer, T, #76

7. Derrick Burgess, OLB, #49

8. Jerod Mayo, ILB, #51

9. Brian Hoyer, QB, #8

10. Shawn Crable, OLB, #98

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