The debate started immediately: Did Randy Moss “quit” on his team Sunday against the Panthers?
In one corner, Panthers cornerback Chris Gamble says Moss gave up. In another corner, NBC analysts Tony Dungy and Rodney Harrison gave more nuanced answers.
What’s clear is that Moss suffered through one of his worst Sundays as a pro, and certainly his worst in New England. And the Patriots need him as a factor for any hope of a long playoff run.
With that in mind, Tom Brady took to the airwaves Monday morning on WEEI with a clear goal of defending his teammate. Brady’s defense in bullet points, with a huge assist from Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston:
- The interception Brady threw in Moss’ direction wasn’t the receiver’s fault: Moss went to the spot he thought the ball would be. “I don’t think you can blame Randy on that one,” Brady said.
- “Randy is one of the best players in the history of the NFL,” Brady said. “When it doesn’t go perfect out there, everyone wants to jump on Randy.”
- Brady even went after Gamble: “I’ve seen plenty of plays made on Chris Gamble too over the course of the season.
- Brady said the Patriots have got plenty from Moss all year, citing his top statistics. “Every game-plan that the defense comes up with is trying to stop Randy Moss. They all say ‘OK, we have to stop Randy Moss.’”
- On his relationship with Moss: “He is one of the favorite guys I’ve ever played with. He’s one of my good friends on the team. I’m always trying to keep everyone motivated, whether it’s the receivers or the offensive linemen.”
And there you have it. If Moss was in the tank Sunday, Brady will do what he can to pull Moss out before its too late.