Bro, I'd be disappointed as hell if my team was not on edge after that loss. How they direct it is he more important facet to keep an eye on.
This season has tested this teams integrity at all seams. Rife with injuries that demolished our run game potential, a depleted WR core where Jules is producing 1,000 yds - in pain, an apparent "not in the same page" moment between owner and GM (how true this is, I have no idea, I did not pay much attention to the AB saga after he got cut), o-line veterans having a down year, absolutely no production from our TE group, having a rough stretch of games that we're used to the Patriots squeaking out with a winning record where we did not, and more.
Brady's talent has been questioned. He's been tugged around by reporters monitoring his every facial expression and every word said. Meanwhile, Bill has fashioned an absolutely INSANE defense that has taken a sort of faux-hit. Their stat-line dominance would have continued, no question, if our offense could have stayed on the field longer in many games (regardless, I think they're still the best in the league by a long shot. Field any other strong defenses for as many snaps as ours have had to play, following up 3-and-outs from the O so often, and they would've been burnt to toast by the end of the season).
I'm not holding my breath. I'm not estatic with confidence. But if this team takes the W in the post-season, this will be by far one of the most incredible feats of will I've witnessed from a team.
If we move into the post-season with the bye, and are looking at playing the Chiefs, then Ravens? By God, it will be amazing if we beat them. I would seriously love nothing more (other than an SB win, of course).
One step at a time, working with hand you're dealt. That's all they can do at this point. And if there is any singular team that can do it? It's the goddamn New England Patriots.
