It was a surprise when the Patriots cut QB Kevin McConnell last week; the former third round pick, whom the Lions claimed on waivers, had looked like a shoo-in to back up Tom Brady. The cut was also good news for the other quarterbacks trying to make New England's roster, including 2008 MSU starter Brian Hoyer.

And now, Hoyer looks poised to become Brady's top backup. Last night, Brian played QB for all of New England's preseason win over the Giants, and he went 18-25 with a touchdown and no interceptions. Bill Belichick even offered this effusive (by his standards) praise for Hoyer, according to the AP: "Not bad," coach Bill Belichick said. "He handled the ball fairly well, threw it accurately." That's code for: He's in!

Here's the full game recap.