Tom Brady Remains Biggest Key to Making Sure Patriots Offense Remains Well-Oiled Machine

Tom Brady threw for over 300 yards on Sunday, and he also threw a touchdown pass.

Those numbers aren't especially horrible, but given the lofty expectations for Brady and the rest of the Patriots offense, it certainly wasn't a great day. More importantly, the offense as a whole struggled, scoring only one touchdown in a 20-18 upset loss at the hands of the Cardinals.

It's far too early to panic about anything when it comes to the New England offense, but players will have to step up moving forward. The Pats are expected to be without tight end Aaron Hernandez for at least a month (maybe more, according to reports), and it may be on Brady to put the offense on his back.

Improving on Sunday's relatively pedestrian performance would make for a good start.