mitchejw wrote:

faldor wrote:

Obviously we're biased, but I think the Patriots are clearly the better team on paper and by what you observe on the field. But as is always the case, Any Given Sunday. If the Pats come out flat and Atlanta wins the turnover battle they will probably win the game. That's the only way I see it though. Of course the Pats have been prone to some flukey plays in these games too, so that's always a possibility.

I actually disagree with the fact that the patriots are better on paper.

If the pats win, it'll be because of their experience and poise. And of course superior coaching, strategies and preparation.

But as far as raw talent...Atlanta has two starting RBs, a a well seasoned Matt Ryan and Julio who is probably the best WR in football.

So with all that said, my heart says Atlanta, but my head says New England. New England should win this game. He plays to their strengths. Disciplined and intelligent football.

You kind of called it there, well nailed it pretty much for 3+ quarters. Atlanta was definitely the more athletic team, I wouldn't say they were better though. Despite building a 25 point lead, New England was driving the ball down the field and controlling time of possession. They just weren't putting points up. And that pick 6 was obviously a killer, not to mention the Blount fumble as they were headed for some points that completely changed momentum. Ultimately though, they made the proper in game adjustments and completely shut down the Falcons running game in the 2nd half. They also held Julio in check the entire game really. I mean the guy had four catches which were all otherworldly. You couldn't ask for better coverage on him.

And while Atlanta's defense played fast and harassed Brady all night, they were on the field way too much and were completely gassed which allowed for the epic comeback. Brady picked them apart and could do pretty much whatever he wanted down the stretch. I never gave up on them, I've learned not to over the years. But I'd be lying if I said I felt good being down 28-3 midway through the 3rd. They got rolling though and they weren't going to be denied. Looking back though, it's just amazing how it all unfolded. They needed just about everything to go right to complete the comeback and it pretty much did. And as if the two scoring drives to tie the game weren't enough, the two 2 point conversions were even more impressive. All or nothing on those plays, and they got it all.

I'm not sure if that'll go down as a great game per se, the greatest comeback for sure. A tale of two halves. But I certainly will never forget it. Oh, and Brady's not retiring even though Gisele wants him to. And why would he? He's still at the top of his game amazingly. Had 35 TD's and 5 INT's this season. He said he wants to play another 5 years. I'm not sure about that, but I wouldn't bet against him. I'd say at least another 2-3. And Garappolo will probably be traded this off season as long as they get a haul for him. They supposedly really like the kid they drafted last year, Jacoby Brissett. He could be the heir apparent to Brady when he decides to hang it up. Jimmy G is a free agent after next season, so if they plan on having Brady for longer than that he would probably bolt for more money at that point. Might as well get something (a lot) for him while you can.

FlashFlood, did you survive the game? Congrats my man! You too Neemo. Patriots fans unite! Crazy thing is, they're already early favorites to win it all again next year. 3 out of 4 again like when they started this run in 01, 03, and 04? Sounds good to me. But for now, I'll continue to enjoy this one awhile longer. Peace!