The Boston Globe's Bob Duffy reports that Ryan O'Callaghan is a fast learner. Asked if he'll be starting at right tackle Sunday when the Patriots host the Buffalo Bills in the season opener, the 6-foot-7-inch, 330-pound breathing mountain looked like the kid hiding in the back of the class lest he be called on to answer a question.
*The Boston Globe's *Ron Borges explains that disputes have broken out between the sides in the Deion Branch-Patriots grievance case even before the arguments have been heard.
Also, according to the *Herald* it seems that the NFL wants to combine Branch's two grievances. That combined grievance would be heard on Sept. 14 and 15.
Howard Ulman of the Associated Press has a story in The Boston Globe that details adversities the Patriots face in the 2006 NFL season.
Boston Herald writer Michael Felger has a piece in a similar vein, explaining that the Patriots have more questions to answer entering the season than they have in recent years.
The Herald's Michael Felger points out the slow decline of the Patriots defensive coverage crew's performance over the last three years.
Jesse Noyes of the* Boston Herald* reports that Tedy Bruschi will be the spokesman for Dedham-based Papa Gino's. The job was Vinatieri's, but he bounced to the Colts.
Hartford Courant writer Alan Greenberg has a feature on linebacker Junior Seau. He's been selected to 12 Pro Bowls. Seau, entering his 17th season, turns 38 in January.
Greenberg also has a Q&A with safety Rodney Harrison. Harrison says his biggest concerns for the team are Branch's return and the injury bug, which the team caught the last three years.
Eric McHugh of The Patriot Ledger reports that rookie Laurence Maroney looks good for the season opener against the Bills on Sunday. Apparently he was running around on the practice field, taking handoffs and moving well in drills.
McHugh also offers a feature on newly acquired wideout Doug Gabriel.
The Sun Chronicle's Mark Farinella reports that the Patriots signed a new quarterback to the practice squad. His name is J.T. O'Sullivan.
Michael Parente of the Woonsocket Call reports that the Bills will be arriving at Gillette Stadium with a whole new look. Apparently Buffalo replaced much of its personnel as well as a number of front office members. "There's some carryover with some of the offensive coaches, but there's a lot of newness -- a lot of new players," Belichick said. "I'm sure that they've held some things back. I'm sure that we'll get some looks different than what they've shown.
Albert Breer of the MetroWest Daily News points out a small change to the roster - Garrett Mills' label has been changed from fullback to tight end. Breer features Mills in this piece.
Don't forget to check out The Globe's blog, Reiss' Pieces.
