I don't gamble, so predicting outcomes is sort of new to me. I enjoy figuring what I think will be the determining factors in a game's outcome, but you never really know in advance which of those factors will prove most important. And there's always a struggle between what you think and what you hope.
I hope they win of course, but I think it's gonna be difficult. I don't like the match between our faltering O-line and their end-to-end excellence across their defensive front. I don't like the noise thing, partly because the silent count imposes uncertainties, and partly because noise is just...debilitating. I don't like that thin air, given the other side is acclimated to it, and we are not.
On the plus side, they are starting a backup, though he is a pretty good backup, and they are not a team as dependent on QB play as many teams, us included. The main plusses, of course, are first Drake May and second the surprisingly comprehensive soundness of the team. We are not great anywhere (qb aside), but we are not woefully lacking in any area either.
There has been a lot of talk comparing Drake to Josh Allen, and for today's game, the comparison is relevant. Josh has to play hero-ball for his team to win. This week, I think Drake is in the same position. I'm afraid I can't quite convince myself he can do it, given the factors in play.
If it turns out he can, I'll be the happiest guy in the room, and if you damn me for an eggheaded fool, you will have a point.
Pats 17, Them 20
P.S, Just realized I left out the McDaniels factor. Maybe that tips it to a toss-up. I'll leave my prediction, though, since I'm kind of looking forward to being wrong, the wronger the better.
