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by Digger

One hit midway thru Sunday's opening quarter at Gillette Stadium dramatically diminished New England's 2008 playoff chances. NFL MVP Tom Brady's season ended quicker than it began after absorbing a knee jarring hit by Kansas City Safety Bernard Pollard.

Suddenly, AFC East football is up for grabs for the first time since Brady took over as Patriots signal caller. New England has a decision to make. Go out and find an established QB to guide their ship or rely on untested backup Matt Cassell? Decisions, decisions. All East division rivals bulked up this off-season. New York Jets playoff pursuit received a much needed jolt by signing legendary QB Brett Favre. Buffalo continues to mature and opened up with a convincing 34-10 romp over Seattle. Even last years 1-15 losers Miami has reason to believe.

It's hard to feel bad for New England as a team. Especially on the heels of a 2007 Spygate scandal. Injuries happen every year on every level from Pee Wee's thru NFL, it's part of the game. It's a safe bet not many players enjoy watching gridiron greats get sidelined. Brady has ammassed a tremendous career resume highlighted by 2007 perfect 16-0 regular season (threw 50 touchdown passes).

Spygate left many questioning exactly how much it factored into Super Bowl Championship seasons. This is something we'll never know. Don't forget, much evidence handed over to the NFL was burned leaving many to wonder just how deep their video taping/spying ventured (why did NFL destroy tapes?).

Injuries sometimes open up doors for players trying to earn their stripes. Some bomb, some shine. Backup Cassell struggled during the pre-season. He basked in sunlight yesterday leading the Patriots to an opening day victory. He's blessed with a very gifted supporting crew of Maroney, Welker & Moss. He'll be coached by some of the games better sideline walkers. Every opportunity will be given to Cassell to lead this team. Does he have the tools to be a bonified starting NFL QB?

Brady's injury extends well beyond New England. Thousands of fantasy football players targeted Brady as their big time point setting QB. Oops! The impact of losing Brady from fantasy teams is probably much greater than in New England. Coach Belichick has a reputation of being one of the best game planners. Now comes his true test... compensating for his downed field general. Now, how will fantasy owners fill their new team void?