The Patriots Hangover Effect
 

With the Steelers losing today to the Jags, the Pats opponents W-L record in the week following their game against the Pats is now a dismal 4-9. Far below .500. For comparison's sake, if you take out the losses to the Pats, our opponents cumulative record in non-Pats games is 83-70. Far above 500.

It seems to me that we've been getting nearly every team's best game for most of the season and it's difficult for those teams to gear up for the following week's opponent. That, and the Pats are still a very physical team which causes other teams to take an extra week to fully recover from their games with us.

Thoughts?

Re: The Patriots Hangover Effect
 

I think there is something to it. I'd say notables are San Diego, Pittsburgh, Baltimore (who was flatter than week old soda), and Indy.

Re: The Patriots Hangover Effect
 

I think the toll on other teams is emotional and psychological, not just physical. The Ravens haven't been the same, in fact they've totally lost it.

As for getting every teams' best game, it's good practice for "One and Done" season. So far, the Pats have passed every test. Win Big or Win Ugly, but just WIN!

Re: The Patriots Hangover Effect
 

you could say the colts were a bit damaged. they lost to the chargers the week after and KC gave them a run for their money.

not to mention the pats seem to beat up the other team physically and the other team loses players. today it was clemens. didn't they beat up chad in the first matchup? losman was taken out of the first bills matchup. jamal lewis was injured? renaldo hill? ronnie brown to the IR. i'm sure there are a bunch more i can't think of. ben had a beat up should from the pats game?

Re: The Patriots Hangover Effect
 

People think we're not a physical team for some reason. I remember listening to WFAN last year before the Jets playoff game. And some of them didn't think Pats were physical at all. I worry about our lack of team speed on defense. But, definately not it's toughness.

Re: The Patriots Hangover Effect
 

Mark Scherleth from ESPNnews Blitz mentioned that today.

Re: The Patriots Hangover Effect
 

mentionned what?

Re: The Patriots Hangover Effect
 

This is the only reasoning I can see when people say that going 16-0, and playing every game full tilt will take it's toll on them.
We truly are getting most teams BEST effort of their respective season. Despite the talent advantage, the Pats have to match every team's emotional approach to the game in order to win. It's the byproduct of being undefeated.

The Pats can't mail it in, and get an easy 'w' this late in the season like some teams. Even Miami will be playing for something.
Pats might get a little break against the NYG, since they should have the #5 slot locked up.

Re: The Patriots Hangover Effect
 

And 3 of those wins were against the Jets and Fins. Only Dallas beating the Vikings was worth anything.

Re: The Patriots Hangover Effect
 

Sorry i thought it was obvious, After the top teams get beat by the Patriots their seems to be a Hangover effect. I don't want to put too many words in his mouth but when you think your in their league and you have to leave with your tail between your legs it has a demoralizing effect.