10 reasons why the Patriots are the best in the NFL

10. The Patriots were undefeated in 2007 The Patriots aren't returning too many defensive players from their 2007 season, but defense didn't win them 18 games their explosive offense did. This year with a completely re-hauled defense they just might have the team to win it all. The Patriots have four key things they had in 2007, Randy Moss, Tom Brady, Wes Welker and Richard Seymour, Vince Wilfork . 9. The Patriots defense is young and quick. Sure Tedy Bruschi was the heart and soul of the Patriots' defense but he wasn't as athletic or as quick as the guys who have replaced him. It'll be a new look defense with Wilfork, Meriweather, Thomas and Mayo, but we're much quicker and we'll fair better against the opponents who were able to beat us with speed last season. 8. The Patriots 2009 schedule is one of the toughest I always see writers writing about a teams strength of schedule etc. For a guy like Bill Belichick who has more Superbowl rings than he knows what to do with, he'll accept this schedule as a challenge. This means the Patriots will be primed for the playoffs having already defeated the best teams in the NFL. 7. Wes Welker is hurt This is another situation where most teams would view this as a serious problem. Well ask Tom Brady about being on the injury report in years past (before 2008). It actually makes you better. Belichick listed Brady on the injury report for years, and look at the success he's had. Wes Welker's injury will spark doubt in those who do not believe in Belichick and everyone knows Belichick eats doubt for a pregame snack. 6. Nobody is talking much about Fred Taylor Fred Taylor wasn't bursting threw holes and scoring TDs in the preseason but I think he's saving it for when it counts. He's 33 years old and coming off one of his worst seasons ever. The Patriots and Fred Taylor are a perfect fit. Taylor has something to prove, and the Patriots desperately need a force in the backfield to keep their opponent honest. 5. Doc Rivers spoke the Patriots this preseason When champions start talking to champions, we start lining up the duckboats. 4. The Patriots have a monster in Jerod Mayo Jerod Mayo is a rising star in the NFL, he's been named team captain in only his second season of work. If Belichick sees greatness in Jerod, I too see greatness. I'm expecting big things from Jerod after being named AP Defensive Rookie of the year and racking up 128 tackles last season. Most importantly he's only 23 years old. 3. The Patriots are still angry about 2007 If you have any doubt that Bill Belichick will have the 2009 Patriots up for every game, know that they still have 2007 in their heads on every play this season. With Tom Brady behind center, he'll be hungry for the endzone. 2. Bill Belichick Enough said 1. Tom Brady is baaaaacckkkkkk! Tom Brady is back, and he's eager to light up every team in the NFL. Drew Brees threw for 6 TDs, Tom Brady will throw for 7. By the way Gisele is pregnant, if that doesn't motivate Brady I don't know what will. Brady is a stunning 101-29 as the Patriots quarterback, the best record by any QB since 1966. The Patriots have given Brady more ammunition with the additions of Fred Taylor and Joey Galloway. Oh by the way, he has two decent receivers in Wes Welker and Randy Moss.