To play or not to play? Not even a question!

It was no surprise during Bill Belichick’s Thursday press conference, held prior to practice, that he would not address the issue of Brady’s health. "I don't have any comment on it." When asked if Brady would have a full workload in practice, Belichick did comment, "We'll go out there and I don't know. The injury report will be out next Wednesday, and we're excited to give that to you.” It is a safe bet that the only injury for Brady will be his usual shoulder problem listed as probable. Do not expect too much out of the Patriots camp concerning Brady’s injury.

After the press conference though, the absence of Tom Brady during the Patriots practice naturally became the biggest news of the week. Although initial reports of his high ankle sprain was that the injury was minor, it seems significant enough to sideline Brady from practice today (or at least from practice viewed by the media). During the media-access portion of practice, only Matt Cassel and Matt Gutierrez were taking reps on the field.

So should Patriot fans start worry about there team with regards to their number one offensive weapon? Sorry sports fans, this is Tom Brady we are talking about! Let try to keep it in perspective here:

Tom Brady has never missed a game since stepping in as the Patriots quarterback in the third game of the 2001 season. Even after Brady suffered an ankle injury in the 2001 AFC Championship Game in Pittsburgh, he still played in Super Bowl XXXVI (and won it). He is not going to sit on the sidelines when he could win his fourth Super Bowl in seven years.

In addition, if Chargers QB Philip Rivers can have arthroscopic surgery on his knee just so he could play in the AFC Championship Game, you know Tom Brady will do everything required and more to play in the Super Bowl.

Finally, what is the option if Brady cannot play? Brady’s backup, Matt Cassel, has not started a game since he was in high school in 1999. Cassel also has only played in six games this season, completing only 4 of 7 passes for 38 yards and an interception that was returned for a touchdown. I just do not see Bill Belichick rolling with Cassel, even if Brady is not 100%. Knowing Belichick, he will just redesign the offensive schemes to work around Brady’s ankle.

Remember, In Brady We Trust!