Belichick was also incredibly conservative with his play calling, punting on a 4th and 2 in Chiefs territory down 14 when he always would have gone for that in the past. Maybe it's a reflection of a lack of faith in his skill players, but there are dudes from the patchwork set of wide receivers last year that are absolutely useless this year (Dobson, Thompkins, Amendola). I think it's a function of shifts on the offensive line, which can't protect him for shit. Cameron Wake and Khalil Mack (who looks like a beast) completely destroyed the line, and Tamba Hali and Justin Houston got to Brady with regularity as well. Brady basically has enough time to make his first read before getting obliterated.
Also, let me point out that it is weird as a Lions fan to see their defense play up to potential. Jim Schwartz was married to the Wide 9 and teams knew exactly what to expect every play, but Teryl Austin (from the Ravens) is using a lot of hybrid fronts and moving Suh and Fairley around the lines a lot (including some plays where they are both overloaded on one side with Suh as a DE, which is ridiculous). The interior pressure is aiding a somewhat questionable secondary, but players like Darius Slay (he did great shadowing Jordy Nelson) and Glover Quin have also taken big strides in coverage. Deandre Levy also looks All-Pro worthy after a few weeks. If only Tulloch didn't celebrate that sack!
The offense has actually played less to their potential, although a lot of points were left off the board because our old kicker missed four very reasonable field goals. However, Golden Tate was an excellent pickup who has great hands, and there is now a plan on third down that isn't "throw some bullshit to Calvin."
The NFC North is still very open and competitive, and even the AP-less Vikings may do okay with Bridgewater instead of Cassel. It will be interesting.
