Everyone is expecting a 2007 performance--the Patriots clobbering the Steelers.
Yet here we are with the OL and the receiver core questionable, and a D-Backfield going against a seriously potent passing attack.
Plus, outside of 2007 and 2012, the Patriots really always start slow. Even in the earlier SB years, they clawed to nip the Colts. The Bills were a McKelvin brainfart away from handing them a big loss.
Face it: the Patriots are closer to a .600 team in September than they are a .800 team (as they are the rest of the season).
I can't see why the Patriots are so highly favored. That Steelers D is taking a lot of heat for sucking. Do those guys have any pride?