mgteich

There are four AFC teams better than anyone in the NFC, although New Orleans seems to be for real.

The patriots have been playing one game at a time, yet focusing on the playoffs, for the entire season. We are now at our best. Sure, it would be great to have a healthy Harrison and/or Jackson, or a couple not have gone to IR. However, in the end, the injuries are not hurting us now, with the possible exception of Seau. But without Seau's injury, Banta-Cain would not have had the opportunity to step up.

The offense is operating on all cylinders. As many said all season, two starters would emerge at WR for the playoffs, and Troy would be the #3 with a few key clutch catches, helped out by the TE's. The OL is indeed the best since Hannah played, as long as we include Graham as part of the OL.

The defense has been awesome all year. Wright played well at NT, but it is great to have Wilfork back. We again have the best front seven in the game. Our secondary has done all that has been asked of them.

The various special teams have greatly improved over last year.

Red zone efficiency on both sides of the ball is unbelievable!

Are we better than San Diego and Baltimore? We'll see! They also have great teams!

It is awesome to be able to believe that this team can actually get better next year!

patsfaninpa

I'm not writing this season off yet. I think next Sunday's game will be quite a challenge for our defense. Would be much more comfortable with Rodney back and a healthier C.Scott for our nickel. Hard to believe we had Vrabel on Cotchery in a 3rd and long. Great stage for front 3 to show good they really are. We know it. Whole league will find out next week.

You're right about offense. Clicking at right time. Sure hope we keep
Grahambo. Him and Watson will be key next week. Have to keep Merriman off of Brady. Because if we do. I think we can pass on them.

mgteich

I am on record as recommending that we franchise Graham, if necessary; or at least make him a transition player. He is a very valuable offensive lineman.

patsfaninpa

Who can catch the odd go-ahead TD pass!! I'd like to see a couple te screens to him and Watson next week. Especially, if they are coming after the qb hard.

mgteich

Agreed. Vrabel can also catch the odd TD pass.

stinkypete

Graham will be instrumental in keeping Brady on his feet, but I don't fear Merriman more that I would Dwight Freeney. The Pats generally perform well against defenses built around a single speed rusher (the only exception being of course Jason Taylor who eats out line alive). It's defenses who creatively blitz on every play (Jets, Denver, Pittsburgh) that are far more dangerous.

khayos

Graham is much more important to this offense than Watson.