FoxboroNation

R.I.P. Myra Kraft

2011-07-20T10:54:00.002-04:00

Addition By Subtraction

2010-09-15T17:25:00.002-04:00

It was never going to happen here in New England. So, it's all for the best that Laurence Maroney is now a Bronco. Too many high expectations, too little performance—a bad mix.

Brady Inks 4-Year Extension

2010-09-10T09:37:00.002-04:00

Tom Brady agreed to a 4-year extension that will pay him an average of $18 million per year through 2014. The deal was finalized on the same day as his car accident in the Back Bay. Talk about your Yin-Yang kind of day!

Brady Involved In Car Accident

2010-09-09T08:43:00.002-04:00

Sources told the Dennis & Callahan Morning Show on WEEI that Patriots QB Tom Brady was involved in a two-car accident on Thursday morning in the Back Bay. Brady's Audi apparently broadsided a Ford van, and someone in the Ford was rescued with the "Jaws Of Life". Reportedly, Brady was not hurt seriously and is on the way to Foxboro.

Brady Deal Close

2010-09-07T09:56:00.003-04:00

According to WEEI, sources report that the Patriots and Tom Brady are very close to a new contract agreement. Obviously, this was going to get done sooner or later if the team was serious about staying a relevant player in the NFL.

FN To Review Patriots Book Soon

2010-08-26T11:53:00.003-04:00

FoxboroNation will soon be reviewing New England Patriots: The Complete Illustrated History. Be sure to check-in to catch our take on this new work published by MVP Books.

Brady Agonistes

2010-08-03T09:31:00.008-04:00

It's becoming increasingly clear that Tom Brady is not happy. Reading the transcript of his "State Of The Brady" session in Foxboro the other day is a chilling undertaking. You don't need to read between any of the lines—the message comes through loud and clear.

Are the Patriots playing games with their boy wonder (who, by the way, turns 33 today)? Well, as has been pointed out by Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.com, if the Rams can fork out $78 million for Sam Bradford, why can't the Pats sign Tom Brady—even with the so-called 2011 cap uncertainty?

Look out Pats fans, the controversy will only grow until the ink is dry.

"Team of Decade" Chokes On Gumbo

2010-02-08T11:07:00.002-05:00

Casserly: Brady Has 3 Broken Ribs

2010-01-03T12:22:00.002-05:00

Charlie Casserly stated today on the CBS pre-game show that Patriots QB To Brady has 3 broken ribs.

Step One

2009-12-29T13:09:00.002-05:00

Belichick Interview

2009-11-24T14:04:00.002-05:00

(Courtesy Zucker Media Group):

Stiffing The Opposition

2009-11-09T16:50:00.002-05:00

If one play characterized the Patriot's win over the fish yesterday, it was Randy Moss's stiff-arm touchdown run just after Miami strutted its stuff via the over-hyped "Wildcat" offense.

With one forearm push, Moss sent a message to Joey Porter and the rest of the Dolphins that New England was not going to be denied victory—ultimately 27 to 17.

While Tom Brady is not yet the perfect quarterback machine we have come to expect, hurling for 300 plus yard and a touchdown is a close enough approximation.

Now things get a little dicey—with undefeated Indy, the Jets and the Saints upcoming. The current 6-2 record could look quite different unless we emerge from this gauntlet.

Charity Raffle For Pats-Jets Tickets

2009-11-02T16:48:00.002-05:00

Go here for details on how to enter and win!

Colonial Uprising

2009-10-25T23:46:00.002-04:00

Your New England Patriots had an exhibition game in London after all. In a messy dispatching of the the barely professional Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Pats scrimmaged their way to a 35-7 win they probably could have achieved without pads.

Not that the boys from Foxboro looked all that sharp. Brady three 3 TDs, but 2 interceptions. And the defense, when they decided to show up, stopped the AAA Bucs at will. When they slacked off, Tampa actually looked like they might belong on the same pitch (did you catch the Wembley reference?).

Anyway, an unsatisfying rout if ever there was one. We'll take it. And the jet lag and the 5-2 record into the bye week.

Start Out Early For This Game

2009-10-24T09:27:00.004-04:00

The Patriots are safely ensconced in London and ready to take on the 'Bucs in a game that makes Foxboro traffic look trivial.

Banter On Banta-Cain

2009-10-20T11:47:00.002-04:00

The Patriots may have thought they could reel back Tully Banta-Cain quickly, but apparrently Eric Mangini has other thoughts.

Patriots Release Galloway

2009-10-20T11:19:00.004-04:00

According to a report in the Boston Herald, the Patriots have released wide receiver Joey Galloway.

Tennessee Sweet Mash

2009-10-18T19:49:00.007-04:00

On this given Sunday, there was more historic going on than a Nor'easter in mid-October.

Your New England Patriots tied the all-time NFL record for margin of victory with a 59-0 pummeling of the hapless (now 0-6) Tennessee Titans. But wait, Tom Brady also passed for 5—count 'em—5 touchdown passes in one quarter, setting a new NFL mark.

Add to this over 600 yards of offense, another touchdown pass by Brady, a decent performance by back-up QB Brad Hoyer (undrafted), and a 100-plus yard performance by suddenly stupendous Laurence Moroney, and this one is enough to make any Pats fan giddy!

So, they're off across the pond to face another winless team next Sunday at Wembley, and the 6-hour flight to Merry Olde England could not possibly be sweeter.

Fred Taylor To Have Ankle Surgery

2009-10-08T16:18:00.002-04:00

Patriots running back Fred Taylor is to undergo ankle surgery.

See The Pats In London!

2009-09-25T14:32:00.003-04:00

Enter the Celebrities For Charity raffle to see the Pats in London on October 25th against the Bucs.

Flying Elvis Causes Loss

2009-09-24T14:15:00.003-04:00

The reason for Sunday's loss seems elemental to us here at FoxboroNation. Analyze the "X's" and "O's" all you want, the defining difference between Week 1 and Week 2 was simple. Week1: Pat Patriot. Week 2: Flying Elvis. Case Closed.

A Look Inside Gilette

2009-09-24T08:46:00.007-04:00

Crews uploading flooring from the U2 concert.; The Visitor's Locker Room At Gillette.

Seems Like Old Times

2009-09-14T22:52:00.004-04:00

Randy Moss, in his post-game interview, said Tom Brady came into the huddle with 5:32 left in the game, down 11, and said, "We're going to win this game". The difference between simple bravado and Tom Brady is 3 Super Bowl rings.

The Patriots, who outplayed the Bills most of the game, were behind and in serious danger of losing to an energetic but inferior Buffalo squad.

Brandon Merriwether stripped the ball from a Buffalo return man to get the offense and Brady back on the field for the winning score.

Twice, Brady delivered lasers to Ben Watson (on the exact same plays) for TDs to put the game on ice, 25-24. All Tom did was 39 of 53, 2 touchdonws.

Mercy. Welcome back, Tom.

Baby Brady II On The Way

2009-09-12T13:14:00.002-04:00

Tom Brady confirmed that he and model Gisele Bundchen are expecting a baby.

USA Today Experts See Pats As Champs

2009-09-11T10:12:00.003-04:00

The Patriots are the consensus pick by a USA Today panel of football experts to win the Super Bowl. Three of the eight pick the Pats to win it all.

Richard Seymour Traded To Raiders

2009-09-06T10:45:00.003-04:00

Richard Seymour has been traded to the Oakland Raiders for a first-round pick in 2011.

"Ultimate Patriot" Retires

2009-08-31T11:57:00.003-04:00

After 13 seasons in which he typified the essence of "PatriotIsm", Tedy Bruschi hung up his shoulder pads today in an emotional press conference at Gillette Stadium.

His grit and leadership will be sorely missed on this team. One wonders who will pick up the slack on the defensive side? Honestly, there aren't many names that jump to mind—certainly none of Bruschi's caliber.

Pats Break Rigorous Camp

2009-08-18T11:14:00.003-04:00

The Patriots break camp with high expectations. Anything short of avenging the last Super Bowl loss, however, will be hollow indeed.

Wang Chung Today

2009-07-28T13:37:00.002-04:00

The Patriots signed their final second-round pick, Safety Patrick Chung. Antwain Spann was released.

Pats Sign Ex-Cornhusker WR

2009-05-12T10:07:00.002-04:00

The Patriots signed un-drafted rookie free agent Terrence Nunn to a contract.

Football Fans and Sports Betting

2009-01-20T09:58:00.008-05:00

How well do think you know football? How about testing your knowledge with some football betting? Online betting is a good way to add even more excitement to any ordinary mid table match, and, unlike your average fantasy league, you’ll have a chance to win some money if you make the right call.

Succeeding with football betting doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to be an expert, although a decent knowledge of teams does help. You can still enjoy major success if you use a good football handicapper to provide you with a list of picks. The best handicapping services today offer a money back guarantee if at the end of the season you don’t come out well by following their picks.

Another way to learn a lot is by reading information on sports betting web sites, score tables and fixtures. 888 sport, the professional online bookmakers, can provide you with some very good information, including live results, inside their sport betting section.

Forbes: Pats More Valuable Than Evil Empire

2009-01-18T09:32:00.001-05:00

Top 10 Most Valuable Teams in Sports

Manchester United- $1.8 Billion
Dallas Cowboys- $1.6 Billion
Washington Red Skins- $1.5 Billion
New England Patriots- $1.32 Billion
New York Yankees- $1.3 Billion
Real Madrid- $1.29 Billion
Arsenal- $1.2 Billion
New York Giants- $1.18 Billion
New York Jets- $1.17 Billion
Houston Texans- $1.17 Billion

Snow Cassel

2008-12-22T11:38:00.003-05:00

After demolishing the "in the playoffs, but not ready for the playoffs" Arizona Cardinals (47-7), your New England Patriots (thanks to the utter ineptitude of Eric Mangini) are now back in the post-season hunt.

Once again, QB Matt Cassel was more than comfortable with his 3 TD passes and generally cool game management. This really wasn't a fair fight, though. And, as the congenitally anti-Belichick commentator Ron Borges points out, we just beat Oakland and Arizona. Let's not get too full of ourselves.

(Editor's note: Those of you who are "Pulp Fiction" fans can think--to yourselves please--about the appropriate scene here).

So, even if the Pats take down the Bills next week and even if Mangini tries to—and actually beats—the Dolphins, are we really going anywhere in the playoffs? That's the real un-answered question of 2008.

Feel Free To Book February Vacation

2008-12-01T10:03:00.004-05:00

Football fans all over New England got good news Sunday—they can start making their Winter Vacation plans for February without the hassle of coordinating them with the Super Bowl.

The Patriots offense (pathetic third-down "efficiency") and defense (No Red Zone efficiency at all) combined to ease the minds of millions. A random selection of fans leaving Foxboro were undecided as to whether the mistake-prone Pats look more like a squad coached by Bill Belichick or Rod Rust.

No matter, get Jet Blue on the horn!

Historic Cassel

2008-11-25T13:51:00.005-05:00

No, this is not a post about some low-budget excursion across the pond to ogle Hogwarts. It's about your new Patriot star—you know the historic Matt Cassel. That's right, the guy that became the first QB in franchise history to pass for back-to-back 400-yard games was (no, not Tom Brady; no, not Drew Beldsoe; no, not even Babe Parilli), but (wait for it) Matt Cassel!

After disposing of the Phrenetic Phish on Sunday, 48-28, Cassel began to look less like the perennial bench-warming back-up and more like the MVP of the league. Well, maybe not yet. However, if he can take out the vaunted Pittsburgh defense this week, we may be looking at discussions of a Super Bowl re-match with the Joisey Jiants.

"Cassel-Ing" To A Playoff Berth

2008-11-10T08:54:00.006-05:00

Your humble scribe is no Chess Master. But that fact doesn't prevent me from using a cheap reference like in the above title to advance the notion that Matt Cassell may yet be enough to get this team to the playoffs.

When Tom Brady went down early in Game 1, the angst level in New England rose to a level just a notch above that achieved by the 3-0 ALCS deficit in 2004. Things looked wicked bleak.

Now, with his latest workmanlike 20-10 win over the Bills, Cassel is looking more and more like a guy who belongs. He's only been sacked twice in the last two games (I can't even speculate how many times he was dumped in the first seven tilts).

"Matt The Pat" (as in patting the ball way too much before a throw) is gone, replaced by a far steadier and confident QB. Heck, he's even throwing long to Randy Moss! Matt was 23 for 34 with no TDs, but importantly, no interceptions either.

Oh, and by the way, BenJarvus Green-Ellis stays--forever! The rookie sensation doesn't run side-to-side much. Why? He tells us with crystal clarity: "Every end zone in America runs north and south." Oh, yeah. He's a keeper.

Cassel Named NFL Offensive Player Of Week

2008-10-23T14:55:00.003-04:00

Full Story Here.

Fish Food

2008-09-22T11:56:00.004-04:00

Since beginning this blog, I have never had to use the word "embarrassment" to describe an effort by your AFC Champ New England Patriots. There's a first time for everything.

In the most un-watchable game in memory, the lowly Miami Dolphins flat-out embarrassed the Pats—using trick plays and intensity to squash New England 38-13. 38-13! Are you kidding?

Matt "My Home Is Apparently NOT My" Cassell looked helpless and hopeless, raising the question of whether Jeff "Really, I'm Not" Garcia should be shipped in ASAP.

It says here, "YES!"

Post-Brady Depression?

2008-09-18T10:35:00.003-04:00

The over-bearing sense of doom that descended on "The Nation" after "The Hit" on Brady's knee has been somewhat transformed into a "hey, what the heck" attitude among fans. This, as the AFC Champs have "cruised" to a 2-0 mark under Matt "My Home Field Is My" Cassell.

After handling the Pop Warner like Chiefs with relative ease, the Pats headed into Sodom on the Hudson with a considerable swagger. This is how it would have been anyway this year, after the Super Bowl embarrassment in the wake of a perfect 16-0 run. You could tell by the fact that everyone showed up at voluntary workouts over the Summer. It was going to be a "chip on the shoulder pads" kind of year—Brady or no Brady.

Time will tell whether this "us against the world" schtick is going to continue to work—it did after all help us get our first 3 SB rings. Attitude can take you only so far, talent carries the big load. From here, they still look like one of the most talented rosters in the NFL. That fact, plus the puff schedule should still result in 10-11 wins. You read it here first. Of course, we had pretty much altered the masthead last February with an additional silver chalice. Oh well.

Go Bruins!

2008-09-08T15:15:00.003-04:00

Statement From The New England Patriots:
"After extensive tests this morning, it was revealed that New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady's left knee, which was injured in the first quarter of yesterday's
game, will require surgery. He will be placed on injured reserve and will miss the remainder of the 2008 season."

Brady Says He Should Be Ready For Opener

2008-08-25T10:39:00.002-04:00

Tom Brady told the Dennis and Callahan Show on WEEI (AM 850) that his foot is feeling better and that he should be ready to start the season opener a week from Sunday.

Ben Watson To Raffle Off Season Tix!

2008-08-20T12:18:00.002-04:00

(Boston, MA) – August 20, 2008 – Benjamin Watson’s foundation, One More, and Celebrities for Charity offer fans the chance to win a once in a lifetime opportunity. Benjamin and Kirsten Watson invite fans to enter to win season tickets to every regular season Patriots game at Gillette Stadium. One grand prize winner will receive the following:

Winner will receive 2 (Section 201) 2008 Season Tickets to the New England Patriots 8 Home Games at Gillette Stadium.
Winner and guest will enjoy a meet and greet with Benjamin Watson
Winner will receive an autographed Benjamin Watson New England Patriots Jersey
Winner will also receive a cash prize in the amount of $855.00 to mitigate the
Winner's tax liability that results from winning the raffle. This prize is withheld and paid, on behalf of the Winner, directly to the IRS ($707.00) and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts ($148.00)

The online raffle will take place at www.netraffle.org with tickets costing $2.00 each and a minimum purchase of 5 tickets. This gives every fan a chance to win this amazing opportunity. The raffle closes on Friday, September 5at 3:00 p.m. EDT.

About One More
Established in January 2008, One More is a 501(c) 3 public charity dedicated to impacting lives by spreading the love and hope of Christ to One More soul by meeting real needs, promoting education and providing enrichment opportunities through charitable initiatives and partnerships. One More serves as an extension of Kirsten and Benjamin as they reach out to the community with faith in God as their foundation. It also allows them to support and partner with those who share their desire to make a positive difference in the world.

About Celebrities for Charity Foundation:
The Celebrities for Charity Foundation was established in 1997 to assist charities in obtaining celebrity support for their organizations fund raising and charitable purposes. It was also established to support celebrities in fulfilling their philanthropic aspirations. CFC is professionally managed by volunteers and provides celebrities with advice, fulfillment services, state of the art technology and a 501 (c) (3) public charity vehicle from which they can conduct their charitable work. Over the past 11 years Celebrities for Charity has donated over $2 million of memorabilia and funds to over 1,000 different causes. www.celebritiesforcharity.org

Spy Vs. Spy—Please Make It Over!

2008-05-15T11:14:00.007-04:00

Will someone please step forward from somewhere and put an end to this idiotic charade that has come to be known as "SpyGate"?

Honestly, I thought Commissioner Goodell's talk would have nailed the coffin shut on this silliness, but he (or actually his lawyers) kept the Pandora's Box open with cryptic comments about Matt Walsh "being there" (make your own Peter Sellers references at your own risk) during the Rams walk-through prior to Super Bowl Win I. Moreover, Walsh supposedly communicated what he saw to the Pats coaching staff. What????

"No tape, but his mouth agape", as the late Johnnie Cochran might say.

Then, Walsh traipses down to D.C. to meet up with Arlen "Pristine Magic Bullet" Specter to further muddy the water on "BeingThereGate". Add to all of this the atrocious reporting gaffe by the Herald's John Tomase, who perpetuated the myth that a tape existed. Shame on him. We await his explanation on Friday.

This is all coming down to a stand-off between those in the media who adore Belichick and those who have a hatred of the coach that borders on the liberal political media's "Bush Derangement Syndrome". Once again, the "mainstream media" thinks it is the real story. How sad.

From where this non-mainstream commentator sits the Patriots were guilty of taping opposition coach's signals for years—in violation of the NFL's explicit policy. They were wrong for that. Belichick's explanation that he "misinterpreted" the rule (he claims he thought the ban was only for use on that week's game) is plausible but not wholly convincing. It depends which side of the "Bill Derangement Syndrome" fence you're sitting on.

The Pats and the coach were fined heavily for their misdeeds. They don't do it anymore. And, it appears that they never taped the Super Bowl walk-through. Speculation about whether any intelligence was passed on orally assumes Walsh has any intelligence—which this whole incident calls into serious question. So, basically, it's a non-story now. Can we please get on with our lives?

Please, someone, END IT!

Pats Take TN LB With 10th Pick

2008-04-26T18:37:00.004-04:00

After trading away the 7th pick, the Pats picked Tennessee linebacker Jerod Mayo with the 10th overall pic.

2008 Pats Schedule

2008-04-15T15:14:00.002-04:00

New England Patriots

1 Sept. 7 Kansas City Chiefs 1 p.m.
2 Sep. 14 at New York Jets 4:15 p.m.
3 Sep. 21 Miami Dolphins 1 p.m.
4 Sep. 28 Bye
5 Oct. 5 at San Francisco 49ers 4:15 p.m.
6 Oct. 12 at San Diego Chargers 8:15 p.m.
7 Oct. 20 (Mon.) Denver Broncos 8:30 p.m.
8 Oct. 26 St. Louis Rams 1 p.m.
9 Nov. 2 at Indianapolis Colts 8:15 p.m.
10 Nov. 9 Buffalo Bills 1 p.m.
11 Nov. 13 (Thurs.)New York Jets 8:15 p.m.
12 Nov. 23 at Miami Dolphins 1 p.m.
13 Nov. 30 Pittsburgh Steelers 4:15 p.m.
14 Dec. 7 at Seattle Seahawks* 8:15 p.m.
15 Dec. 14 at Oakland Raiders 4:15 p.m.
16 Dec. 21 Arizona Cardinals 1 p.m.
17 Dec. 28 at Buffalo Bills 1 p.m.

Please Re-Wind And Put In The Right DVD

2008-03-24T16:01:00.005-04:00

OK, it's been a little over a month now. It should be fading—this feeling of utter doom whenever Manning The Lesser makes another speech or gets another endorsement or just opens his trap.

I can't honestly say I hate the guy, or the Giants for that matter. I'm old enough to remember rooting for Jim Katcavich and Andy Robustelli and Frank Gifford—before the Pats were a glimmer in Billy Sullivan's eye. But it still irks the hell out of me to think that the "perfect season" was lost so unimaginably on the world stage. It didn't really happen, right?

So, cut me a break, why don't you? Wake me up from this nightmare. Re-wind the tape, sack the little twerp on 3rd down like you should have, and hoist that 4th trophy aloft.

Damn!

Moss To Sign 3-Year Deal

2008-03-03T15:13:00.003-05:00

Reports are that Randy Moss and the Patriots have agreed to a 3-year deal worth $27 million.

The Commercial That Never Was

2008-02-08T13:12:00.001-05:00

Coach B Settles On 2009 Super Bowl Motto

2008-02-06T09:55:00.000-05:00

Stunned And Dismayed

2008-02-03T23:22:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to the new Super Bowl Champion New York Giants. They outplayed the Patriots in nearly every aspect of the game and deserved the win.

PREDICTION: Pats XXXIV, Giants XIII

2008-02-02T10:27:00.000-05:00

I've had two weeks to mull over my initial SB XLII prediction (Pats 34, Giants 13) right after the AFC Championship Game. Nothing I have seen in the 25/8 coverage of this event has changed my mind one iota.

The 18-0 New England Patriots are superior to the New York Football Giants in every category but one—the running game. And, given Laurence Maroney's performance in the past few games, the Patriots are not that far behind.

So, what the heck does New York have in their arsenal that even remotely matches New England? A seasoned, mistake-free QB? No. A multiple weapon passing game? No. A shutdown Red Zone defense? No. An impenetrable secondary? No. A dominant defensive line? Maybe. One legitimate receiver, two good running backs, and a good pass rush does not trump the most complete, prepared and relentless team in NFL history.

Sorry, New Yorkers. You are coming out on the short-end of a Boston match-up yet again. Get used to it.

The Bling Dynasty

2008-02-01T09:37:00.000-05:00

From Boston radio station JAMN 94.5—via Matt's Pats Blog

"Magic Bullet Man" Hogs SB Limelight

2008-02-01T09:06:00.000-05:00

Ah, yes. Arlen Specter. The man who brought us the "magic bullet" theory of the Kennedy Assassination. You remember, the bullet that somehow passed through President Kennedy then made various right angle turns in mid-air, then struck Governor Connally (only to fall into the limo as pristine as when it left the bullet factory)? You know, something Oilver Stone might make a paranoid movie about. Oh, wait a minute, he did that already.

Anyway, this "Senator" from Pennsylvania (a lifelong Eagles fan, by the way) has decided to interject that old reliable anti-Patriot saw, "SpyGate", back into the mix. And oddly enough, right on the eve of Super Bowl XLII week-end. What a coincidence that this pressing public policy initiative would coincide with the Patriots attempt to be the first perfect 19-0 team!

The good Senator, the ranking Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee, wants NFL Commissioner Goodell to tell Congress why the league "destroyed" the Patriots "SpyGate" videotapes. He may even call some Patriot officials to testify. For what? This is an internal league "rule", not some Watergate-style cover-up. The Pats were caught and severely punished. They have then gone on to punish the rest of the NFL and all the haters and "neutral" pundits who still won't admit the truth. Namely, that this is the best team EVER. Period.

Exclusive: Who's Goin' To DisneyWorld?

2008-01-30T17:25:00.000-05:00

PerfectoMania!

2008-01-30T16:05:00.000-05:00

Get all the pre-game hype you can possibly stand at the Pats' official Super Bowl XLII site here.

FoxboroNation In The News—Again!

2008-01-29T13:27:00.000-05:00

The Editor-In-Chief nails his second story in two days—this time on the resurgence of Pat Patriot in the Lowell Sun. Check out this story here.

Devil May Care...We Don't

2008-01-29T13:07:00.000-05:00

FoxboroNation In The News!

2008-01-28T11:13:00.000-05:00

The Editor-In-Chief of FoxboroNation answers a host of Super Bowl XLII questions from Scranton, Pennsylvania Times-Tribune reporter Ron Davis.

Catch it by clicking here.

Ex-Pats Coach Holovak Dies At 88

2008-01-28T09:19:00.000-05:00

One of the great gentleman of the game and the coach who first made the Boston Patriots a credible organization, Mike Holovak passed away over the weekend.

For those of us in the Nation old enough to remember Patriot games played at Fenway Park, or Harvard Stadium, Mike Holovak was a classy, sideline presence—and in those days young AFL fans could actually be on the sidelines. Rest in peace, Mike. May the descendants of your players make you proud on Sunday.

Win A Trip To Super Bowl XLII!

2008-01-23T15:31:00.000-05:00

Benjamin and Kirsten Watson announce their new foundation “One More” and kick off the foundation by raffling off a trip to Super Bowl XLII in Glendale, Arizona. Tickets are available here.

“One More” is a foundation set up by Benjamin and Kirsten Watson to support their desire to help the community and give back to those people and organizations in need. Benjamin and Kirsten have created this foundation to help tackle the immediate concerns and issues in society. “One More” was established to meet the real needs of individuals by promoting educational and enrichment opportunities through charitable initiatives and partnerships.

Here's your chance to watch Benjamin Watson and the NE Patriots in Glendale, Arizona as they pursue Super Bowl XLII and history! Tickets are on sale now for $2.00 / ticket (minimum purchase of 5 tickets). The drawing will take place on Tuesday, January 29, 2008. The entry deadline is 3:00 PM EST January 29, 2008. For more information and to order tickets, visit this web address.

Hello, Ankle Sprain (YIKES!)

2008-01-23T11:36:00.000-05:00

Sources indicate that Tom Brady is suffering from a "high ankle sprain", according to the Boston Herald.

Brady Spotted In Right Foot Walking Cast

2008-01-22T10:40:00.001-05:00

AP Story on injury here.

One Pretender (NYG) Standing

2008-01-21T09:33:00.001-05:00

After all the faux outrage at "CameraGate", after all the talking heads and their bad-mouthing, after all the other coaches have fallen by the wayside—one obstacle stands in the way of your New England Patriots becoming the greatest team in NFL history. No questions, no caveats, no asterisks, no more nonsense.

As one of the privileged 60,000 or so who witnessed the crowning of the AFC champs last night in the Foxboro chill (21-12 over the Chargers), your humble scribe was impressed (once again) with how resilient this team is. It was clear that even on a bad night for St. Thomas, this squad can beat anybody. Need to run? Maroney can give you 100 plus yards in the second half. Need a new "Third Down Troy Brown" to make the game-sealing catches with stunning ease? Enter the "Un-Sung Uber Alles", Kevin Faulk.

On a night when Brady was picked three times (and for the first time in the Red Zone in the Deval Patrick Era), the game had a surreal air to it. The Chargers could move the ball seemingly at will, but they simply could not penetrate paydirt. Otherworldly plays by Junior Seau, Tedy Bruschi and Ellis Hobbs denied the hobbling but courageous Philip Rivers from making a game of it. Four field goals will not beat perfection.

And so, it's on to Glendale, Arizona to face the New York Football Giants, who many of us over 50 once called our own. It will probably not be as close as the final regular season match-up. When Bill Belichick is given two shots at you, watch out. More importantly, when Tom Brady has (what is for him) a mediocre day—he usually lays down vengeance on his next unlucky opponent.

So, before all the hype and misplaced hope from New York, here is our prediction for Super Bowl XLII: The Perfect Patriots of 2007-8 34, NYG 13.

"Complete" Ticket To AFC Title Tilt

2008-01-13T11:34:00.000-05:00

Now, Tom Brady is breaking records we didn't even know existed. He shattered the playoff completion mark of Phil Sims to set a better one (92.9) in the Pats' weirdly convincing 31-20 win over the resilient Jags of Jacksonville. If WBOS-FM knows what's good for them, they will sign Tom Terrific to do promos for the "92.9 Over Easy Cafe".

It was, in the end, pretty easy—although David Garrad almost single-handedly was a thorn in the New England side. He squirmed out of sacks, flung side-armed completions, and generally made the game closer than it should have been.

However, as with the relative quality of Sunday Brunches, turnovers were the key. An early fumble led to a Pats' score, and Rodney Harrison turned in his quota of late-game playoff interceptions in Foxboro in the 4th Quarter to seal the deal.

Add to this, a spectacular performance by Laurence Maroney (122 yards and a TD), who became one of the best receivers on the field as well, as the Jags defense keyed on Randy Moss all night. Ben Watson also shone, with Donte Stallworth making the most dramatic reception of the night—failing to hit paydirt by watching his fleeting image on the Gillette Jumbo-Tron.

What can you say about Brady? He saw the Jags plan, took the 26-for-28 "dink and dunk" route, and set a new record. Amazing. His Lady Liberty fake on a TD pass to Welker will be on NFL highlight reels for eternity.

Now, it's one game (Indy or San Diego) to advance to where they have wanted to be since July-the Super Bowl.

It's A Brady Kind Of MVP

2008-01-07T14:05:00.000-05:00

Tom Brady, almost unanimous, NFL MVP.

Coach Of The Year-'Nuf Ced

2008-01-04T12:22:00.000-05:00

Bill Belichick was named NFL Coach of the Year today.

EXIT 16W = 16W

2007-12-30T12:23:00.000-05:00

Perfection. Ice in the veins. Records galore. Undefeated. The Best Regular Season Team Ever. This is the story of your perfectly maaaah-velous 2007-8 New England Patriots.

After falling behind by 12 points in the 3rd Quarter to a surprisingly feisty crew of New York Football Giants, the Championship breeding came to the fore. With crystalline precision Tom Brady led the charge back hitting receivers like they were video game icons—Welker, Faulk, Stallworth, and, of course, Randy Moss. Hooking up on a dual-record 65-yard TD pass, they eclipsed the other Manning and Jerry Rice in one fell swoop. Fifty touchdowns, twenty-three touchdown receptions. Even Laurence Maroney scored two rushing touchdowns (although at times he couldn't get out of his own way) and Stephen Gostkowski looked as cool as Vinatieri ever did.

The ultimate 38-35 victory solidified the historic pedigree of this great team and put aside all the "SpyGate" silliness once and for all. Three more wins to the ultimate title: Greatest Team in NFL History. Period.

One Left For Perfection

2007-12-25T11:13:00.000-05:00

It wasn't a satisfying win at all on Sunday—a tedious, sluggish 28-7 victory over the completely clueless Miami Dolphins. After a white-hot first quarter or so, including two more TDs from Brady to Moss, both squads sleepwalked through the remainder of the contest.

So, we are 15-0. We are on the verge of smashing 35 years of NFL history. No team has ever gotten this far in the regular season. We are poised to eviscerate the Exit 16W Giants. This Manning won't be in the game at any point. No let up on the pedal. This is the final regular-season exclamation point on SpyGate. Take your dumb rule and do you know what with it. Metro New York--close your eyes. This is not going to be pretty.

Revenge Bowl Fizzles

2007-12-18T11:52:00.000-05:00

Wind, rain, cold, dank. Sounds like the setting for Act I, Scene I of Macbeth. And, come to think of it, there were some overtones of the Shakespearean type in SpyGateII. They just never materialized. At all.

This had to be one of the most boring Patriots contests in memory—and not the way the early season romps were boring. Oh, no, this was a whole new level of ennui. I mean we actually ran the ball!

Any game in which neither Tom Brady not Randy Moss touch pay dirt is unthinkable in this juggernaut year. Well, it happened. And they still won, 20-10 over the Garden State Jets. All the "offense" came from an interception TD run back, a short run after a blocked punt, and a field goal after a stalled drive. Yikes.

So, it was forgettable. They're still 14-0, only the second team in NFL history to reach that mark. And, given the "opponents" down the road, it's looking more and more like 16-0.

The Best Defense?

2007-12-10T09:29:00.001-05:00

This is the best the NFL can muster? The Steelers' "#1 defense"? Well, so much for parity.

The New England Patriots remained undefeated (13-0), turning in a dominant second half to drub Pittsburgh 34-13--holding "Ben and the Big Mouths" to exactly "0" points over the last 30 minutes.

The "guarantee" by some low-life safety on the Steelers (I wouldn't give him the benefit of a mention), seemed pathetically irrelevant at game's end as Brady threw for 399 yards and 4 touchdowns—leaving him just 5 shy of breaking the all-tile mark of 49.

Randy Moss was again superb, snaring two more TD passes (numbers 18 and 19), putting him on pace to break Jerry Rice's all-time mark of 22.

The Patriots refused to yield to the Steeler blitz and continued throwing the ball (only 9 runs all day), and, when Moss was covered, let Wes Welker (1 TD) and Jabbar Gaffney (1 TD) do the honors. Benjamin Watson was also big on key plays.

All in all, the offense was in gear all day, while the defense found it's way in the second half. Bottom line: the NFL better find something better than the "#1 Defense" to beat this historic Patriots team.

DOZEN That Feel Good?

2007-12-04T00:36:00.000-05:00

Winning the game itself is almost as rewarding as shutting up the national media that is salivating for a Patriots' loss. And win it they did, in spectacular fashion, in championship team fashion.

Trailing 24-20 with under a minute to play, The Pats laid it on the trash-yakking Ravens (who lest we forget are really the Cleveland Browns) with a Brady to Gaffney laser in the corner of the end zone that won it 27-24. It was supposed to be an in-route, Gaffney turned it out, Brady saw it. Bingo.

So many other key moments in this one. The missed 4th and 1 that was reprieved with the stupidest timeout in NFL history—as the Ravens D-Coordinator took the T just as Brady failed on the sneak. Wow. How about Mr. Un-Sung, Kevin Faulk, stripping Ed Reed of his interception and preventing a Baltimore score. Wow. Tom Brady scrambling for the first down on 4th and 6 in the last minute leading to the ultimate scoring play. Wow. Ben Watson stretching out to catch a B-B from Brady at mid-field on the final drive.

Not to mention the contribution of the running game—Moroney and Faulk running and catching, even Heath Evans running for a 1-yard TD.

So, Randy caught another TD as well, Tom got two more, and the so-called "blueprint" got smudged again. Truth be told, getting physical on the Pats and running down their old defense (literally) does make them seem somewhat vulnerable. But you have to have talent to execute a smart game plan. So far, no team has had enough. Bring on the Steelers.

Schilling Opines On Pats

2007-11-27T09:13:00.000-05:00

From Curt Schilling's Blog, "38 Ptiches":

"When anyone talks greatest team ever my first defense is the mid to late 70s Steelers who, it seems, has their entire rosters in the HOF. This team trumps that and any other team I’ve ever seen. In a day and age of TOTAL parity in the NFL, where everyone has to play by the same rules, the Pats have done the unthinkable.

Take ‘camera gate’ and place it where the sun doesn’t shine, using that as a basis for any discussion on why this team is what it is means you’re nothing more than a Bellicheck/Pats/Kraft hater with minimal football knowledge."

Wake-Up Win

2007-11-26T10:07:00.000-05:00

Finally. A challenge. Maybe a little too much of a challenge!

Coach Andy Reid and the Eagles devised a brilliant game plan last night that all but de-railed the Patriots' "Greatest Team In The History of The Universe Express." By exploiting the Pats tendency to cover out-bound pass patterns, Philadelphia used inelegantly termed "in-cuts" to pick apart the New England secondary with laser-like accuracy across the middle of the field.

On the other side of the ball, they went with a 3-man front and still managed to get pressure on Brady and coverage on Moss to effectively neutralize that tandem. The beauty of the Pat's multiple option pass attack is that Wes Welker could then catch 13 balls and be the difference in the game. Two Assante Samuel interceptions (one for a TD) didn't hurt either.

Basically, the offense was OK, just kept off the field a lot and denied its hottest weapon. It is a testament to how good this team is that they weathered this adversity and still came out on top, 31-28 and went to 11-0.

Nevertheless, every upcoming opposition coach will now mimic the Eagles approach (if they can) and try to make the Gillette Juggernaut a little shaky.

A Modest Proposal To The NFL

2007-11-19T08:39:00.000-05:00

So, how's this for an idea? We allow every other team in the NFL to photograph and/or video-tape every Patriots coach, ball-boy, cheerleader and mascot. Also, Bob Kraft pays for the video equipment out of his Revolution Championship Party Fund (which is way over-funded). No, wait. How about if we just give every opponent the Pats playbook 2 days before a game? Nah, I still think they'd go undefeated. Oh, well.

By the way, the Pats had another scrimmage on Sunday night, defeating the "surging" Bills 56-10 in Mistake II By The Lake. This wasn't even interesting on a "rout" level, as Al Michaels and John Madden started vamping in the second quarter.

What can you say? Brady passed for 5 TDs and 373 yards; Randy Moss caught 4 of those scoring passes from Brady; and they are now 10-0.

Come on, someone offer these guys a challenge!

Non-Boring Win #1

2007-11-05T09:54:00.001-05:00

Your New England Patriots are undefeated all right—now a stellar 1-0 in non-boring wins. Finally, a team has challenged the Foxboro Express, pushing them to recapture the old Fourth Quarter Comeback mojo. The Pats stared a 20-10 deficit straight in the eyes with less than 10 minutes to play and reeled off a patented 2 TD blitz (the final one in only 3 plays) to snare a 24-20 win over previously un-beaten Indy.

Peyton Manning sealed the victory as he coughed up the ball via a Jarvis Green/Rossevelt Colvin strip/recovery late. The win was iced with a clutch third-down pass to Wes Welker (the Pat's un-sung MVP of the season so far), which led to a rare three-knee ending to it all.

The only downsides were the inability of the offensive line to protect Brady well enough from the quick Colts pass rush and the poor tackling that led to a end-of-half 70-yard plus romp by Joesph Addai.

Randy Moss was again huge, along with other newcomers Stallworth and Welker, as the Pats moved to 9-0 on the Magical Dolphin De-Throwning Tour. Oh yeah, and Brady had 3 more TD passes (33) to add to his legendary year. Next up, the bye week and the surprisingly mediocre (meaning better than we all thought) Bills.

Rare Belichick Interview

2007-11-01T12:41:00.000-04:00

The typical DEFCON 5 media lock-down we're used to in New England was somehow broken by Chicago Tribune columnist Dan Pompei, as he offers up an in-depth interview with Coach B. You can read the entire interview here.

"Run-Up" To Super Bowl Lite

2007-11-01T08:43:00.000-04:00

Just a warning to the reader: I may plan on running-up the word total on this article above the normal 350 or so. You want to stop me? Log off!

The New England Patriots once again exposed the inferiority of the NFC by walloping the Washington (formerly Boston) Redskins 52-7. The unbeaten Pats (8-0) now prepare for Sunday's regular season Super Bowl against the mighty Colts in the Air Bubble in Indy. The Pats are actually favored in this game, which could determine the site of the AFC Championship game.

Tom Brady ran his touchdown pass total to an astounding 30, and, for good measure, ran for two more to make this a laugher almost from the opening gun. And, this is from the 5th best defense in the NFL!

Again, we need some real opponents here to get interested! OK, Peyton, think you can deliver an interesting challenge? We'll see.

Slaughter On I-95

2007-10-22T09:22:00.000-04:00

Anyone who has ever been to a sporting event in the squalor that is "Dolphin Stadium" knows the joys of exiting I-95 into the spacious confines of the stadium parking lot. The place is barely in Dade County—just over the border with the slightly less violent Broward County. Well, enough Florida-bashing.

But wait, going to a Marlins game is the most ludicrous of all—since you can make casual conversation with the other fan in your section without disturbing the ballplayers.

In any event, the Patriots traveled to the "Land of Aqua And Orange" and absolutely eviscerated the lowly fish (were you really surprised?) in a 49-28 rout that was over before half-time.

Tom Brady pitched 6 TD passes (a career best), bringing his season total to 27. Two of these were absolute schoolyard "jump balls" to Randy Moss, who might as well be quardruple-covered for all that it matters.

Bob Ryan, we told you this was tedious. Not that the team is boring, but the competition makes the games boring. Don't you think? So, now they're 7-0. Bring on Indy. Please!

Best Pats-Related Quote Of The Week

2007-10-21T12:05:00.000-04:00

From the kinetic keyboard of Mike Lupica of the New York Daily News: "Just so we don't have to go over this every Sunday the rest of the pro football season: Randy Moss is open."

Cast Your Pro Bowl Vote!

2007-10-18T15:20:00.000-04:00

It's that time again! Time to cast your Pro Bowl votes for deserving players throughout the league (and a few choice Pats, of course).

Go here to cast your vote.

Get Andre To Canton

2007-10-16T12:50:00.000-04:00

It's just the right thing to do. Go here to sign a petition to get Andre Tippett into the Hall Of Fame. Here are some facts and figures from the website, andre4hof.com :

Andre Tippett, has had seven plus years of eligibility for the NFL Hall of Fame. The 11 year veteran linebacker deserves better. Black Belt Martial Artist Andre Tippett was feared by many NFL quarterbacks and running backs in his career. Electors please consider the following before voting:

* 100 career sacks 21st on the all time list.
* Five consecutive Pro Bowls.
* 1985 AFC Defensive Player of the Year.
* Three Linebacker of Year awards voted on by the NFL Players and Alumni.
* An entire career with one franchise a rarity in The Era of Free Agency.
* One AFC Championship.
* Part of effort to win three straight road playoff games in 1985-6.
* 18.5 sacks in 1985.

Dallas—North Of Forty

2007-10-15T01:43:00.000-04:00

So much for parity between "elite" teams in the NFC and the only really good teams (two in the AFC). The Patriots served notice on the best team in the NFC by punishing them on their own turf in a 48-27 Texas trouncing.

Tom Brady passed for a career-high 5 TDs, and despite actually trailing in the second half, the Pats turned on the after-burners to lay waste to the 'Boys in the 4th Quarter. Wes Welker caught an astounding 11 passes, Stallworth 7 and Moss 6 in an offensive onslaught that saw the Pats score the most points in 23 years. Sorry, Bob Ryan. Yawn.

Troy Brown Celebrity Bingo

2007-10-10T09:16:00.000-04:00

Information about an upcoming event by Troy Brown—the quintessential Patriot:

Tickets are currently on sale for Troy Brown Celebrity Bingo being held at Gillette Stadium on October 29, 2007 beginning at 6:30pm. Join Troy Brown, Wes Welker, Kevin Faulk, Benjamin Watson, and more of his Patriots teammates and Boston athletes for a night of bingo, auctions, food and fun to benefit Celebrities for Charity Foundation and the Inner City Scholarship Fund. Celebrities for Charity Foundation was granted a one day bingo license allowing Troy Brown Celebrity Bingo to give away $10,000 in prize money.

“We are very excited to be having Bingo again this year,” says Brown. “We are appreciative to the Treasurer for giving us this great opportunity for the third time and I am really looking forward to raising money for two worthy causes. It is sure to be an evening to remember.”

Celebrities for Charity Foundation was set up to provide many local charities a way to have celebrities involved in their fundraising efforts. The foundation does this by providing celebrity visits to charitable events and by providing autographed memorabilia for charities to use as a fundraising tool. We ask different local celebrities to autograph the memorabilia and then distribute it to charities all over New England. Charities that are requesting donations must go though an application process and provide us with their mission and goals. This year Celebrities for Charity proudly reached the $1,000,000.00 donation mark and we look forward to growing this number.

The Inner City Scholarship Fund was started in 1991 and exists through the Catholic Schools Foundation, Inc. The Inner City Scholarship Fund grants inner-city students the financial support to attend primary or secondary parochial schools in the Archdiocese of Boston. Scholarship assistance is given out annually and awarded to students no matter his/her race, color, gender or creed and has helped over 61,000 students and given over $52 million in scholarship money.

Troy Brown will be joined by many of his New England Patriots teammates and many other local celebrities for 9 games of Bingo with the chance to win up to $10,000 in prize money. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.troybrownbingo.com or call (978) 749-6700

You Call That A "Victory"?

2007-10-08T14:33:00.000-04:00

It is symptomatic of the essentially spoiled nature of Pats fans that we are upset with the 34-17 win over the hapless Browns at Foxboro. Why? Well, for one thing, there were too many darn punts! And, as a direct relation to that, way too many "three and outs". There were also way too many times when I said to myself, "Hey, these bozos are within only three scores!". That's spoiled. Rotten.

Anyway, the Pats moved on to a 5-0 record with the win.

Brady passed for three more touchdowns (two to Benjamin Watson) and Junior Seau intercepted two passes as the Pats, basically, rolled over the Team From The Mistake By The Lake. I know the great Bob Ryan has castigated those of us who dare to state that this team is almost (and I stress almost) boring to watch—but, come on, aren't they?

Maybe this unsatisfying win against a poor Browns team will force Coach B to get them a little more prepared for the decidedly not boring match-up next Sunday against the 'Boys. But, I still think we'll win—and easily.

Bengal Lancers

2007-10-02T16:09:00.000-04:00

I have to say, the relative angst of running a Pats site versus a Red Sox site is not even in the same galaxy. The Red Sox are a 162-day study in theatrical agony; the Pats are (at least so far this year) bordering on being so good they're boring. There's not much more to say about this team—aside from wallowing in VideoGate—which I refuse to do.

OK, I'll try to act like this is interesting. The New England Patriots embarrassed yet another poser of an "opponent" this week by eviscerating the Cincinnati Bengals, 34-13. Brady passed for three more TDs (two more to Randy Moss) and Sammy Morris ran all over northern Kentucky to turn in one of the best games of his career. The Pats are now 4-0. They have no films now. They're doing this the same way they won 3 Super Bowls. It's called talent and great coaching. 'Nuf Ced.

Look Out For That Ambulance!

2007-10-01T14:26:00.000-04:00

Two New York Jets season ticket-holders have filed a "class-action" suit in U.S. District Court in Newark against Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots. The suit charges that the fans were "defrauded" by the Pats over the VideoGate flap because "New York Jets ticket-holders...fully anticipated and contracted for a ticket to observe an honest match played in compliance with all laws and regulations." Uh-huh. Oh, and they're looking for $184 million. That sounds reasonable, don't you think?

You know, I have to admit, we don't have quite enough of a litigious society--we need more frivolous actions like this. Not. Could this whole joke be any more typically New York, or what?

38 Ski-Doo

2007-09-23T17:20:00.000-04:00

Your New England Patriots are now 3-0 on the season, and have scored exactly 38 points in all three games. So, they are on pace to score 608 points. OK, that's unlikely. They'll probably only score 30 some week.

In the second Post-Video-Gate contest, the Pats undressed the NFL entry from New York Lite, pummelling the Bills 38-7.

Tom Brady hooked up with Randy Moss twice for TDs, and tossed two others (Watson, Gaffney) in one of his most efficient performances in a while. You get the sense that he really loves this panoply of recievers--checking off at will, hitting Moss in spots only he can get to. Moss became the first player ever with 100 receiving yards in the first three games with a new club. It's all really good.

We don't need no stinking video.

Camera Obscura

2007-09-17T01:30:00.000-04:00

Film THIS! The New England Patriots showed the world that the silly NFL policy of prohibiting signal-filming has nothing to do with dominating on Sunday. The Pats undressed the hapless, trash-talking Chargers 38-14.

Tom Brady and Randy Moss played catch, the defense made "LT" look like "Lame-Time" and Coach B just scowled under his cowl. Moss caught 2 TDS in another 100-yard performance, and newcomer Adalius Thomas brought back an interception for another TD.

The details are almost superfluous. The Pats flat out scorched the posers from the Left Coast. Maybe Norv Turner can cook up some other egregious act by some hot dog vendors spying on his troops. Yawn.

New Pats Logo?

2007-09-14T11:44:00.001-04:00

Goodell Smack-Down

2007-09-14T09:51:00.000-04:00

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has imposed the most disproportionate penalty ever levied by the league—a total of $750,000 in fines and the forfeiture of the team's first-round draft pick.

All this for video-taping readily open and viewable defensive signals from the Jets sideline? Is he serious?

There is no denying that Coach Belichick violated the clear proscription against use of video equipment during a game—and he should pay some penalty. But this?

Now, the Patriots will just have to show the league that the past was not a "fluke" and they can win it all without subterfuge.

MovieGate

2007-09-11T17:25:00.000-04:00

Your New England Patriots—guardians of all that is right and good—have been charged with cheating by the NFL (actually for the 4th time in the past 12 months). What's the horrendous offense? Steroid use? NOOOOOO. Helmet-to-helmet maiming drills? NOOOOOOOO. Guess again. Don't know? Well, it seems they've been "illegally" filming the signals of defensive coordinators on the sidelines. OK. And this is outrageous HOW?

Last time I checked, the rest of the known Universe can look across the field and see the signals being given by one team's coaches or another. So, why is filming this illegal? Still, the thought that Coach B (graduate of prestigious Phillips Academy in Andover) could ever be considered a cheat, is ....how can we put it?....unthinkable.

Hey Commish, try concentrating on the thugs, criminals and reprobates who still slither through NFL camps on a daily basis. Just a thought.

Cakewalk At EXIT 16W

2007-09-09T15:34:00.000-04:00

J-E-T-S, Just Easy To Score. OK, maybe that's too harsh on our Border War Buddies from the swamps of New Jersey. NAH! The Patriots began their mission to the Super Bowl by dominating Mangini's Minions with a 38-14 rout.

Newcomer Randy Moss caught 9 Brady throws for 183 yards and a TD, and Wes Welker got 6 passes for 61 yards and another TD. To top it all off, Ellis "The Rim Man" Hobbs set an NFL record with a 108-yard kick-off return to open the second half. So, the new, improved Uber-Team that is your New England Patriots has come to play. And they have made their opening statement.

This Turkey Needs "Pre"- Seasoning

2007-08-10T11:54:00.000-04:00

As the Herald's Steve Buckley rightly implies, tonight's Patriots "kick-off" pre-season "game" should be watched with as much seriousness as Bobby Keilty's at-bats at Pawtucket.

In other words, instead of watching the telecast, do something really important—like cleaning out your sock drawer.

God knows there will be multiple occasions for us all to cheer on the consensus Super Bowl Champions (no pressure, right?), so kick back this evening, throw a shrimp on the barbie, catch the Sox as they eviscerate the O's and leave football for the real football season. OK, now, is Assante on board yet? Where's Randy? Is that a new whistle around Coach B's neck?

The Final Piece Of The Super Bowl Puzzle?

2007-07-15T21:58:00.000-04:00

If the Patriot Ledger's EricMcHugh is right, Monday may bring the culmination of the Pats' aggressive off-season Super Bowl statement with the long-term signing of Assante Samuel.

When added to Thomas, Seau, Moss, Stallworth, Welker and Washington the Patriots are not just the "cool" pick to emerge as champions, they are the clear consensus pick. This isn't just bravado, it's cold reality. So, as the Red Sox' lead in the AL East dwindles back to single digits over the Evil Ones, take heart that Coach B is plotting another path to glory come February. Hey, Peyton, get in your place.

The Horror!

2007-05-03T13:24:00.000-04:00

Coach B. Enters "Moss" Pit

2007-04-29T11:28:00.000-04:00

We knew he was smart. Hell, he went to Phillips Andover. But, how many of us expected Coach B. to anticipate the fact that the Raiders could not afford the #1 pick and Randy Moss? We should have. We now have Randy Moss.

As galling as the thought of Moss in Patriot colors is, I have to admit it is intriguing. With the other WR acquisitions made in the off-season, the Pats go from one of the worst wide receive corps in the NFL to the best. Small wonder that Tom Brady is giddier than if he was dating another supermodel.

Frankly, this move is going to take a while to get used to. Moss is a cretin of the first order. No two ways about it. This move will really test the faith of the Nation in the "Word According To Belichik." But, I have a feeling I may be adding a fourth Lombardi to the FoxboroNation masthead in February 2008.

Felger Has It Right

2007-04-27T11:14:00.000-04:00

The Boston Herald's Michael Felger (who we don't always agree with) has done the best job summing up the Patriots strategy this weekend. By doing a thorough historical review of past draft activity, Felger makes it clear the the patient approach taken by Coach B and Piloli has worked out very well for this franchise.

They have traded down, they have stayed put and they have even traded out of drafts—living to make better choices another day. Despite the temptation to trade one or both of their first-round picks (24 and 28), here's hoping they stick to their tried and true tactics.

By most accounts this is a draft class that is somewhat thin at the very top and quite deep through the rest of the field in areas the Pats have needs. So, resist the urge to make a splash and look instead for the ripple that may turn into a wave.

OUR PREDICTIONS: 2 Linebackers

24. Paul Posluszny, OLB, Penn State
28. David Harris, ILB, Michigan

RB Chris Henry Headed To Foxboro?

2007-04-20T11:56:00.000-04:00

Kirk Reynolds Of Yardbarker.com gave us this "heads-up" about University Of Arizona's running back Chris Henry. From Chris' blog:

I can barely keep my head on straight I have been so many places. I visited Chicago today and am now jumping on a plane to head home. This whole experience has been great. I have been excited at every place. I was in New England Wednesday and New Orleans and Baltimore before that. Even though the visits are all very similar, each place is unique. We spend time with the coaches watching film and answering questions. There is definitely a buzz in New England. The people and fans are just really proud and passionate about their team. I'm sure every city has passionate fans, but with all the Super Bowls in the last five or six years, there is just an added sense of pride in New England. That visit was a little more personal. It was the third time we have met with each other. We have visited at the Combine, in Arizona and now in New England. They gave me a tour of the facility. That stadium was amazing. From the outside it looked nice, but when you get on the inside it's unbelievable. Everybody has watched the Patriots play. I'm sure playing in that stadium is an amazing. It's so big and with those fans going crazy, the players must love it. I know I would.

Rest In Peace, Darryl Stingley

2007-04-05T09:34:00.000-04:00

Former Patriots wide receiver Darryl Stingley died today in his Chicago home. He was only 55 years old. Stingley, who was viciously hit by Oakland Raider goon Jack Tatum in a 1978 exhibition game, was a quadriplegic for the past 29 years. Reportedly, Tatum never visited Stingley in the hospital.

The cheap shot has come to symbolize the gutter culture that was—and continues to be—the Oakland Raiders. One can only speculate that Darryl must have quietly smiled when the Pats vanquished the Brutes By The Bay in the famous "tuck rule" playoff game that started the current New England dynasty.

Rest is peace, Darryl.

Super Blown

2007-01-27T12:12:00.000-05:00

Let's get this story in perspective right off the top. Despite the admission by the NFL that they completely blew an interference call on Ellis Hobbs leading to a third quarter Colts TD, there is no guarantee that Manning would not have punctured our porous defense on third down for a another score. Also, if the Patriots defense had played beyond Pop Warner level on the final Colts' scoring drive, we would all be finalizing our chili recipes right now.

So, having said all of this, it still raises serious questions about the state of defensive interference rules and (most importantly) the ability of officials to immediately reverse a blown call on the field—while the teams themselves can still decide the outcome.

This missed call will go down in Pats history next to many other unlucky quirks that kept us from victory in the past. In the last five years, we have become used to playing with a horseshoe in our collective pockets. In the AFC Championship game we received the horseshoe (fittingly by the Colts) in the same general spot on our anatomy.

Bottom line: the zebras screwed us out of a victory—but none of us is certain that the Pats (on that day) were up to the challenge of pulling off a victory anyway.