Talib makes immediate impact, Gronk injured

Cornerback Aqib Talib, whom the Patriots acquired from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for a measly fourth round pick, was very impressive in his debut yesterday against the Indianapolis Colts. The fifth year player out of Kansas recorded seven tackles, one pass break up, and an interception which he returned 59 yards for a touchdown. And when Colts quarterback Andrew Luck did complete passes to his receivers being covered by the newest Patriot, Talib, was always right there to contest it. Talib really provided a spark for the secondary and that spark ignited into a flame as fellow defensive backs Alfonzo Dennard and Tavon Wilson picked off number one overall pick Andrew Luck; Dennard took his pick all the way. And I think this is just the beginning.

Rob Gronkowski suffered a broken forearm in yesterdays 59-24 rout over the Colts. Reports say that Gronk will miss 4-6 weeks. Fellow Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez, who missed his sixth game yesterday, was already expected to play in their Thanksgiving clash with their division rival New York Jets and with Gronk out I fully expect Hernandez to play. There's depth at tight end on this roster but Hernandez and Gronkowski are both one of a kind. Gronkowski has freakish size, strength, and athletic ability while Hernandez has phenomenal hands, versatility, athleticism, and the ability to make plays after he catches the ball. Since drafting Hernandez and Gronkowski in 2010 I can't recall a game where they were both inactive; one of them, yes, but not both. Backup tight ends Michael Hoomanawanui, Visanthe Shiancoe, and Daniel fells haven't been used much in the passing game this season making the health of Gronkowski and Hernandez that much more vital. Still, I don't expect this Patriot offense to miss a beat.