The Patriots lost more than just Bruschi, they also lost Ty Law, Roman Phifer and Keith Traylor from their defense. Now not all of these guys are key starters but they all are solid contributors that will be missed. Couple that with the loss of both coordinators and I think you have yourself the an opening for problems.
Yeah, they added Chad Brown and Dana Stubblefield but both guys are over 34. The secondary has a couple two year players and a couple of guys beyond their prime in Harrison and Poole.
I like Brady and Dillon so I won't say anything yet, but they don't seem to be the same dominant team they used to be. The keys to that team are getting on in age or leaving.
It's just a matter of time.
9-7 this year, IMHO.