Pats-Ravens Thoughts

• I like the Deion Branch move, and it paid dividends.  But the success of this duo will depend heavily on one thing: offensive balance.  As good as he was, Branch is no Moss.  He'll need help from the running game to get him in one on one match-ups, which he has excels at.  The fact that the Patriots were able to run the ball with such effectiveness against the Ravens shows that they have the ability to move the ball on the ground against anyone.  A more consistent effort from their tight ends (what was Aaron Hernandez's problem?), and Branch should be able to put up some very solid numbers. 
• Devin McCourty is the real deal.  He's small, but has the ability to take away one side of the field.  His closing speed is impressive, and he's more than willing to come up in run support.  His progression is key.  If he can continue to develop into a shut down-type corner, it will give the Patriots added flexibility in their scheming, which as we all know was the key to their Super Bowl seasons.
• Brandon Meriweather needs to be benched.  No way was that hit called for.  The ball had cleared Heap, and it was blatant that his intentions were malicious.  He's a big part of their defense, but that kind of play benefits no one.