Two Big Hits

They might be pre-season games, but the hitting is real. We saw that last night throughout the Pats and Eagles game. Ryan Mallet and Julien Edeleman both took big hits.

Mallet was knocked out of the game late in the second quarter with a hit to his upper chest. It was a huge blow that rocked his body. He never played another snap. It was Tebow the rest of the way. The dialogue between Mallet and the medical staff on the sideline must have been interesting.

Edeleman was trying to get another yard on his play. His head was down, but he was not leading with the crown of his helmet. He took a tremendous shot right below his neck. He got up a bit dazed, but stayed in the game.

Players don't want to take themselves out of the game because they know it will give someone else the opportunity to win the job. Edelman has missed a huge amount of time already this year because of his broken foot from last season. To take himself out of the game would give the coaches a reason to release him at some point.

Mallet only had 24 regular season snaps last year. He was trying to make the most of his time last night. It all changed on one play and he was out for the game.

Tom Brady has been very resilient during his career. He has a great offensive line, but anything can happen on one play. He knows that more than anyone.