Patriots Starters Won't Warm Bench

Usually, NFL coaches use the final game of the pre-season to make final decisions on who to cut and who to keep on the final roster. This means that the starters, those who are already assured a spot on the team, don't play. This not only keeps them healthy for the regular season opener, but also gives the second and third-string players plenty of time on the field.

This plan works if the coaches are happy with the first team's performance so far. No such luck for Tom Brady and the rest of the Pats' starters. They are expected to play against the Giants on Thursday night.

Bill Belichick and company were disappointed with the Patriots loss to the Rams last week. Though Brady threw for 273 yards, the rest of the team didn't play so well. It's amazing that Brady was able to complete 18 of 22 passes when you consider that the Patriots only had the ball for 16:14 of the game. The defense was picked apart by rookie QB Sam Bradford, and the ground game was terrible, with just 28 yards gained.

Not all the starters are upset about having to start. In fact, lineman Matt Light is looking forward to shaking off last week's loss, and making sure the team is ready for the Bengals on September 12.

“The last thing you want to do is perform in front of your home crowd, who every now and then can get a little upset when you don’t make big plays. You don’t want to do that and go into the regular season with question marks about your offense, your defense, your special teams, and all that stuff.”

The first team won't likely play too long, but don't expect for them to leave the field until Belichick is satisfied.