ESPN gives Patriots defense a C- grade

ESPN writer James Walker has posted these grades for the Patriots offense, defense, coaching, intangibles, and overall.

He gives the offense an A-, defense a C-, coaching and intagibles an A. The Patriots received an overall grade of A.

James Walker, ESPN

New England enters the year as one of the Super Bowl favorites -- and deservedly so. There are not many holes on the team outside of the defense. But the offense should be so good that the Patriots should only need marginal improvement defensively. No team in the AFC East can match New England in coaching or personnel. It was be a major upset if the Patriots do not repeat as division champs, which should pave the way for another postseason run. The only thing I can see derailing the Patriots from being a contender is significant injuries.

I believe these grades are fair. The offense being at "A-" is just about right. Tom Brady is still fantastic, and the Patriots have arguably the two best tight-ends in the league. Brandon Lloyd finally gives Tom an elite downfield threat, and the O-line depth is very deep. The big question mark are the running backs. If the Patriots were solid at that position, the grade would be an "A" or "A+".

The Patriots made great moves in the draft on the defensive side of the ball, and I think without these moves, the grade for the defense would be a "D-" at best.

What do YOU think?