To what extent does too much desire factor in?

[DarrylStingley]

Bob Ryan wrote a column in yesterday's Globe about the Pats needing a post-SpyGate Lombardi to cement things for Bill (and Tom).

When I watch some of Bill's play calling in playoff losses, and I see Tom look just a bit off, I wonder if they get a little yippy or tight when everything is on the line.

They seem to play great in the first playoff game and then less good in the AFC Champ game and the SB.

Now there are other reasons. The Giants Front 4 was a huge factor in the last two SBs.

But maybe part of it is wanting to win too much and putting too much pressure on themselves.

Is there something to this?

 

[reflexblue]

But maybe part of it is wanting to win too much and putting too much pressure on themselves.

Is there something to this?

Ive post the same thing in the past. I think they are pressing, like you said they're putting to much pressure on themselves, especially brady.

 

[Gronkandez]

I agree. I think the Pats would play much better as a semi underdog on the road, especially in Denver. They would play with a chip on the their shoulder and go for it on 4th down instead of punting from the 35 yardline. I didn't really have a problem with the punt at the time but I think it's important to play like you're the underdog, instead they play like they're protecting a lead. It's a fine line.

 

[Uncle Rico]

I agree. I think the Pats would play much better as a semi underdog on the road, especially in Denver. They would play with a chip on the their shoulder and go for it on 4th down instead of punting from the 35 yardline. I didn't really have a problem with the punt at the time but I think it's important to play like you're the underdog, instead they play like they're protecting a lead. It's a fine line.

For all the cheering I (and others) did when the Ravens won, can't help thinking a matchup in Denver would have been more favorable. Oh well. At least we can't blame the way the season ended on that loss to Arizona.

 

[PatriotDynasty_12]

I agree. I think the Pats would play much better as a semi underdog on the road, especially in Denver. They would play with a chip on the their shoulder and go for it on 4th down instead of punting from the 35 yardline. I didn't really have a problem with the punt at the time but I think it's important to play like you're the underdog, instead they play like they're protecting a lead. It's a fine line.

I know wind was a factor yesterday, but was it just me or did it seem like BB was playing awfully conservative? He's got the most balls in the NFL and I was very surprised to not see us go for it a couple times. BB is all about "Playing to win", so it definitely was a little dissapointing to see BB get away from that approach (His aggressive play-calling)

 

[BadMoFo]

They want it so bad that they don't play the way they've been playing all season. It's like they get dumber the closer they get.