Ok, lets start speculating now.

How long do you expect Corey Dillon to keep the starting job with the Patriots now that they have Laurence Maroney on the team?

Can Maroney take the starting spot in 2006?

I expect they'll do a 1-2 punch like the Fins did last year. I think it's going to be a major trend when two of the best head coaches in the league advocate the system.

I am sure it will start off like that, but at some point, the starting spot will become Maroney's. You think he can take it this year?

Rather doubt it. Corey's still good and short of a season-ending injury Maroney won't be the #1 back. 'Course, I might just be a tad biased, he started playing college ball in Kansas.

I don't think Dillon is done yet. Maroney is going to be a great back, but if Dillon stays healthy, he will see the majority of the carries this season. I think the split could end up being 60/40 in favor of Dillon, but he will still carry the starting role. 07 and beyond, this could be Marroney's show, but my money would be on Dillon for 06.

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I think they still go with Corey Dillon for at least next season, but I dont think Belichick will default to Dillon a year later if Maroney starts outperforming him in camp.
I see him being Faulk's replacement and a versatile weapon that can be interchanged with the offense. He may be the face of the Patriots future running game, but he is a useful weapon in the meantime.

BY THE WAY what do people think about the Pats taking Maroney at #21? Did they reach a little for this one? Is Bill Belichick just smarter than all of us no matter what we think?

First, most of us had Maroney as a first round rb...and a great option. So no I don't think it a reach at #21.

Second, I agree, Maroney will replace Pass/Faulk this year, and replace Corey later on.

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Expert on nothing, opinionated on everything...

I think the Pats had one of the best drafts this year. Yes Belichick is smarter than us.

All local reports are that Dillion is "really' working out for the 1st time in the off-season.He [Dillion] said he is doing it 6 days a week and now knows how important it is. Bill B. called him before drafting LM and told him 'not' to read in to it, but that it will help the team.One thing to remember, LM has split time before with Barber and said on local sports radio today that he's happy to come in and learn from Dillion 'ETC'. He said all the right things and I was impressed by his overall exchange. Pats did a great job in the draft and "yes" Bill is smarter than 99.9% of us and 100% smarter than other NFL coaches.
Chad Jackson was also in and did likewise [excellant] in 1st impressions.

I do hope you're leaving Nick Saban out of that blanket statement. Those two practically have cloned brains when it comes to football.

Right cuz when I think of Nick Saban... I think of Bill Belichick.

LOL @ Birdman

I think Dillong really lost a step last year, and I dont think he is getting it back. I wouldnt be totally shocked if this season started off with the carries going 50/50 and leaning toward Maroney by mid season.