As is the norm, the afternoon practice on Tuesday concentrated mostly on the passing game. The team wore shoulder pads and helmets, but the contact was limited.
Quarterbacks Drew Bledsoe, Michael Bishop and Tom Brady all ran the offense through goal line, hurry-up and 7-on-7 situations. John Friesz, Bledsoe's first backup last season, did not get any reps in the situation drills once again.
Bledsoe was sharp in the hurry-up drill, as he hit all five of his pass attempts. He completed a short pass to Kevin Faulk to start his drive, then hit Terry Glenn on an out pattern. After a Faulk draw, Bledsoe found Troy Brown on a short pass, followed by another run by Faulk. Bledsoe and Faulk connected again on a screen pass before the drive ended on a long pass to Vincent Brisby.
Bishop was 2-of-3 on his drive with a screen to Patrick Pass and a completion over the middle to Rod Rutledge. Bishop also threw low and behind Rutledge for an incomplete short route, and he was given a gift interference call on an overthrown ball to Tony Gaiter that appeared to be well covered by Antonio Langham.
The special teams worked on field goals, and Adam Vinatieri made 3-of-4 attempts. His miss was the result of a fumbled snap by holder Lee Johnson. Johnson tried to get the ball down despite his muff, but the kick by Vinatieri never had a chance. Kicker Chad Holleman made all three of his attempts.
The team will have two practices tomorrow, the final double session of the week. There will be a morning practice on Thursday and an afternoon workout on Saturday.
