The New England Patriots might have gone an entire game without scoring a touchdown if quarterback Tom Brady hadn't scrambled for a first down on a 3rd-and-three situation in the second quarter.
It was Brady's third and final series of Thursday night's preseason matchup against the Panthers at Gillette Stadium. The 42-year-old quarterback picked up the first down using his legs, and eight plays later fullback James Develin ended the drive with a 1-yard touchdown run that led to a 10-3 victory.
"I think those plays are important," Brady said when asked about keeping plays alive with his feet. "To get a first-down conversion on me scrambling, I'm sure the defensive coordinator is like, 'What the heck? This is not -- you know, we've got to stop (Julian) Edelman, we've got to stop (James White), we've got to stop the run game, we've got to stop these great players.'
"And all of a sudden, Brady for a scramble. That's got to piss him off pretty good. So, I revel in that. Hopefully, I can do that once a game -- I think I'd be good with that -- and if they give me an opportunity, I'll take it. It's just, I don't think it would be much more than four of five yards."
You can tell Brady takes great pride in his ability to extend plays with his footwork. He's never been a mobile quarterback, but few players at his position are more effective at moving around in the pocket to evade pressure and deliver an accurate pass.
The Patriots have a great rushing attack led by Sony Michel and a deep group of running backs. Brady probably won't need to pick up yards with his legs too often this season, but he's clearly going to take advantage of any opportunities that arise.
New England Patriots
After all, he's got to keep his status a 1,000-yard rusher intact.
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