McDaniels' Patriots Impact: 9 Winners and Losers
Hey football fans! So, Bill O'Brien's gone, and Josh McDaniels is back in New England as the offensive coordinator. Big change, right? It's got everyone buzzing, and honestly, I'm still trying to wrap my head around it all. This whole situation reminds me of that time I tried to coach my son's little league team – total disaster, but I learned a ton. Anyway, let's dive into who's winning and losing with McDaniels back in the mix.
This article will cover the impact of Josh McDaniels' return to the New England Patriots, analyzing who benefits and who suffers from this significant coaching change. We'll examine the implications for key players, the team's offensive strategy, and the overall dynamics of the organization.
The Big Winners
1. Mac Jones: This one's a no-brainer, right? Mac needs a strong offensive coordinator to help him develop. McDaniels' experience and reputation for developing quarterbacks could be huge for Jones. It's a gamble, for sure, but the potential payoff is massive for both Mac and the team. I'm cautiously optimistic, to say the least.
2. The Running Backs: With McDaniels back, expect a strong emphasis on the run game. That's good news for Damien Harris and Rhamondre Stevenson. They should see a lot more carries, especially if the passing game isn't clicking. More carries usually mean more chances to shine, especially in a system known for smart play-calling.
3. The Tight Ends: Historically, McDaniels loves using tight ends. Hunter Henry and Jonnu Smith suddenly have a much bigger chance to make a real impact. We might even see more two-tight end sets which opens up more possibilities on the field. This could be a game changer for them, if they can perform under the pressure.
4. The Offensive Line: A successful run game relies heavily on a strong offensive line. So, this is a win for them. They'll get more chances to prove their worth, potentially improving their overall performance and solidifying their roles. Stronger performance there leads to stronger offensive success.
5. Bill Belichick: Okay, hear me out. While it might seem odd, Belichick might benefit the most. He gets his trusted offensive coordinator back, which frees him up to focus on other areas of the team. Remember, this is the same coach that won multiple Super Bowls. His ability to adapt and strategize means he always seems to find a way to be successful.
The Potential Losers
6. The Wide Receivers: This one's tricky. In the past, McDaniels' offenses haven't always featured explosive wide receivers, focusing more on the running game and shorter passes. Jakobi Meyers and Kendrick Bourne might find their roles diminished, depending on how the offense shapes up. It's hard to say for sure, but it's a potential pitfall for them.
7. The Offensive Scheme (Initially): Look, anytime you have a big coaching change, there's going to be a period of adjustment. Expect some growing pains as the players learn the new system. We could see some inconsistency early in the season. It's not a complete loss, but it's definitely something to keep in mind.
8. The Fantasy Football Owners of Patriots WRs: I know, I know – harsh. But if the Patriots lean heavily on the run, the wide receivers' fantasy value could take a hit. If you drafted Patriots wide receivers, you might be sweating a little.
9. The Defensive Play Calling: One of the best defensive coordinators is the play caller and head coach. With Belichick focusing on offense, there might be a reduction in defensive complexity or a missed opportunity in some games. This is just a thought, but there's a possibility of this.
The Bottom Line: It's impossible to predict the future with 100% certainty. This is just my take, and remember, I'm no NFL expert. That time I tried coaching little league taught me one thing: be flexible and adapt. This is going to be a fascinating season to watch unfold. Let's see how it all plays out! What do you think? Who are your winners and losers? Let me know in the comments below!