Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Patriots OC downplays Ochocinco's woes

Chad Ochocinco hasn’t been underwhelming this season.

He’s been awful.

Through three games, the New England Patriots' wideout has five receptions for 87 yards. But more importantly, he’s barely ever targeted by quarterback Tom Brady. And apparently with good reason.

Ochocinco dropped a sure touchdown pass Sunday in the Patriots’ loss to the Buffalo Bills, and he is partially responsible for one of Brady’s four interceptions because of a poor route.

“Chad, just like everybody else in that game -- me included -- would probably wished to have a couple of plays back,” Patriots offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien told the media Tuesday. “And at the same time, here is a guy and a bunch of guys -- coaches included again -- that are working hard to correct those mistakes and really focusing on Oakland and trying to get better at the things we all need to get better at, because every week is a challenge.”

Ochocinco was acquired to bolster an already-potent passing game, but it seems like he's more of a decoy than anything. He's sixth on the team in receptions behind two tight ends, two wide receivers and a running back.

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