surprises disappoints and points of pride

[Patfandango]

There were lots to think about in this game now that the kick in the cajones feeling has dissipated. I’m very proud of this team and am honored to be a fan. Thanks to everyone on this site for insightful analysis.

Surprises
We don’t blow leads never mind the largest in playoff history. We don’t lose AFC championships. We don’t lose in domes. The team looked exhausted and undermanned in the second half.

I was expecting the secondary to be abused but they played well. Manning had success exploiting the LBs with midrange passes.

The Alexander move was brilliant in the first half but the Colts exploited him and Bruschi in the second. We adjusted a little (Tully back and Vrabel to the inside) but too little too late.

We usually win the battle of the backups. Fletcher vs. Alexander on a key play went the Colts’ way. Much has been said about how the Colts are so top heavy that we will beat their JAGs every time. Well, not last night.


Disappointments
Coming this close to NFL history and just missing hurts a lot.

Abandoning the running game in the second half

Maroney disappeared in the playoffs.

Bruschi seemed a step late all night and throughout the playoffs.

Points of Pride
This is a great team that clearly overachieved. We matched two great teams in the playoffs blow for blow. In what is effectively a rebuilding year, came a minute and a play from going to the Super Bowl.

We are loaded with young talent that will learn from this. The coaches will use this loss for all it’s worth.

Hobbs and Samuel were terrific. Ellis’ kickoff returns were a major plus.

Gostkowski outplayed Adam (both perfect but two touchbacks in kickoffs for Gost).

 

[Mainefan]

I agree with everything here...I'm proud of the Patriots and proud of the way they played yesterday as well. We were beaten fair and square, but we played very well.

 

[milwaukeebeers44]

Good post, but. . .Geez, everyone has such short memories.

It wasn't the biggest blown lead in the playoffs. That belongs to the former Oilers

Of course, the Pats don't ususally blow leads. Never mind double diget leads.

Is it next year yet??

 

[PromisedLand]

Good post, but. . .Geez, everyone has such short memories.

It wasn't the biggest blown lead in the playoffs. That belongs to the former Oilers

Of course, the Pats don't ususally blow leads. Never mind double diget leads.

Is it next year yet??

Reason for the confusion: the talking heads were saying it was the biggest lead blown in a Conference Championship game.

 

[PromisedLand]

There were lots to think about in this game now that the kick in the cajones feeling has dissipated.

Good post, but I gotta say about this part, speak for yourself!