Quote:
Originally Posted by RhodyPatriot
This veteran team has suffered two crushing defeats over the last two playoff years. I'm really concerned about an emotional hangover with this team next year. No doubt roster wise and organization wise this team will be contenders for years to come.
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Also my concern for a few reasons:
1)Clearly, attempting to go 19-0 negatively affected this team, physically and emotionally. Every team brought its A+ game for the past 7-8 games. The Pats had a bullseye on their chest for the better part of the year. In many of those games, the Pats got a little beat up, but still managed a win. I hope the short offseason is enough time to recover.
2)What will the further investigation into SpyGate bring? If further evidence is found, I have to believe it will have a negative effect on the team. In the beginning of the year, the SpyGate seemed to fuel the team, however, a long offseason of investigation/speculation can't be good for the team and Belichick. Will Kraft become fed up with Belichick if further evidence is found (Rams superbowl)?
3)I don't know that it's a given that the Pats will be "contenders for years to come." I hope I am wrong, but at some point, this streak of dominance has to slow down. Sustained dominance is so difficult and it is incredible that they've dominted for seven years. The loss is all the more frustrating because it was a golden opportunity that may never come around again.
I think we all need to realize how lucky we were to see three super bowl wins over the past seven years. I hope I am wrong and the Pats are back in the big game next year, this time winning it!