Patriots Playbook - 12/17/2008

[0:55] ..." and to release -- the broadcast team with fox. For the Arizona Cardinals game coming up this Sunday so why he's scheduled to join us here in about ten minutes or so and you want"...

[33:08] ..." three out of four. I still have a hard time believing that Tarvaris Jackson threw for four touchdowns against their secondary last week at that blows me away."...

[36:19] ..." you're there for basketball game yeah I was there -- playing the Miami Hurricanes now today aren't in so yeah so that was that was what the deal was about."...

[54:26] ..." people. And I don't see. I don't really know much about the Brian Waters guys but. The Kansas City garden made. So I don't I don't really want to say whether or not he deserves it"...

[0:00]" Let's go let's go let's go Tampa without golf I want to go pot pie. That they've won mirror excuse Patriots playbook got back up combat thought that they've -- here briefly when. Looking down last Sundays game -- Superman coverage. And these kids ready for the break. Right -- the rest of the 2008. NFL. And some of the one cup -- between. John -- fallen Patriots playbook and."

[0:41]" What besides the playbook for Wednesday here on Patriots dot com radio would be here and you know we are pretty good show light up for you today. Daryl Johnston. Former Dallas Cowboys all pro fullback and a member of the fox broadcasting crew you'll be in with the Kenny Albert and to release -- the broadcast team with fox. For the Arizona Cardinals game coming up this Sunday so why he's scheduled to join us here in about ten minutes or so and you want to stay tune for that in his perspective on. Well not only. Not only the Patriots at this stage of the game two weeks left in the season but we'll look at the whole. A hole playoff race in particular how the season is gone -- run over some things with the with the of the moose and just a little bit and Silva goes all -- later on the program here from -- course from Patriots football weekly you'll check in with a says he doesn't Wednesday's. And we'll also hear from -- just asking. Of course he was became one of the two Patriot players to reach the Pro Bowl. After we left you yesterday at 4 o'clock eastern time the pro bowls. Teams were announced officially and as taos ski and Welker were the two selections for the Patriots and I have to admit run off the bat. It doesn't come as a surprise at all. I thought there was a chance that a guy like Logan Mankins might get -- as we discussed -- Brian -- yesterday but doesn't really come as a surprise. Even though running game wise this -- line may have arguably had a better year this year than they had last year the fact is is that. That'll happen dominating rusher and this is on the unfortunate part. All of the Pro Bowl -- Most everybody looks at things only skin -- They really don't take the time to look at eighteen production. As opposed to an individual production. Happens all the time. And I realize that this is not an exact science at the very -- an exact science. There are a lot of snubs. But what I would want to ask you is take a look at the AFC in particular just for practical purposes let's stay with the AFC because this -- the conference of course. In which -- reside and I'm sure you have your own thoughts about the NFC as well and if you'd like to contribute those you surely can do it but. In the AFC. Looking at the roster. Of the Pro -- players based on what we talked about who we thought might make it who we thought. You don't really stood a good chance of making it yesterday. Who on that roster offense ND -- does not. Deserve to be either. Who does not. Deserve to be either one look at this just a little bit differently today rather than talk about Pro Bowl snubs. Because to me and it's easy it's really easy. To look at guys statistically who were snubbed in leapt off the Pro Bowl roster. How would you take a look at it from a little different perspective today and tell me who you believe. Does not deserve to be there. And I gotta tell you I got one. I want it stands up big time and I know why he's there. But I think that there were more. Qualified candidates for this game and that position. In my biggest doesn't deserve to be there is Brett Favre. Now before you think that I am you know committing some sort of vote us in here. Let me explain why I think the way I do maybe you can -- maybe you don't this is not. Anti Jets -- on the personal -- this is not anti Jets. I respect the rivalry with the Jets in the AFC very much every Patriots fan should. I think Patriots Jets can be the new Cowboys Redskins and I've long thought that. In the NFL is so much better when you have active vibrant rivalries. And to -- simply because of the in shall we say news has been traded back and forth by these organizations or last year too especially since Eric Mangini became coach. There's no reason why the objection BV chief rival for the Patriots are kind of look at it that -- All the fans feel the Miami still is with talk about this before. Now in Miami but Pittsburg. Would certainly be considered a rival. Indianapolis. There's certainly considered a rival but I'm talking about you know to me a rival or someone. That you see more than once that some bad blood is definitely spilled out on the field. And I think you have more chance to do that and develop that with a team within your own division because it's always two games against those guys. The last few years let's face it the rest of the AFC east has not been up to snuff. Not up to the Patriots level anyways it was really hard it to have a quote unquote rival. In the truest sense of the word. And we got that back now. So this is not anti jet. But I think you know of the quarterbacks that maybe if -- team Jay Cutler Peyton Manning as the starter and Brett Favre. I'm for I'm going to guess is they've apart got in because of the whole. MVP. Thing I mean let's face it would would would New York had been a playoff team if they still had Chad Pennington maybe. He can't say definitively. Favre could beat. The instigated the won the individual the players that kind of helped get them over the top we know we're not in the huddle we don't know we're not a practice we don't know what's going on internally and that organization. But it for my money even though his numbers. Might not be as good as Favre overall I think the fairly similar. I would have selected in this instance Ben Roethlisberger I'm not saying that Casale even though I think Matt Cassel certainly deserves a mention based on the Jiri head. I don't what was Morgan would would probably in the third spot probably deserved it I'd I'd agree with the the it thanks -- for for China generics -- obviously from Patriots football weekly. I just kind of felt. You know like why would they do this is this just -- sort of our biggest placating Favre here because Roethlisberger when you look at the schedule that Pittsburgh went through and they won some of these games and that's a --"

[6:53]" Yeah -- and it anybody who was in the other show knows that I'm no fan of Ben Roethlisberger in general but. I can you know be objective about what I see. And one I saw this year he was one of the best quarterbacks in the the Roethlisberger was and I thought for sure. He was a lot to get in the Pro Bowl I'd. Agree with you that Favre has had a better year than maybe some people. Would have expected and by some people including myself and yeah not a terrible you had a terrible year but by no means. Pro -- worthy and I didn't I wouldn't think at all. And I I just wonder. Now this inflate his ego even more. Makes him even more determined to want to come back and playing next year you know. You know I hope I hope it doesn't because I'm I'm sick of him to be honest with -- is enough enough. While I would think that Pennington even reserve deserves some drama from that aspect you're telling me that Favre was a big reason the jets' resurgence. What an even more so Pennington deserved it because of the Miami where they came from the -- is sure if -- he certainly deserves consideration but I you know. Based on what their teams have done as well I thank Roethlisberger. As -- on either of those two guys."

[8:10]" And I on the whole thing. You know I realized that you know they do this probably on purpose is to tweak or -- you know. I mean because we'll talk about it you know and on invariably. My guess would be. Favre or and certainly some other guys on this team that got named yesterday will probably say no thanks anyway because of you know increase or whatever the reason Kamal and maybe a guy like Roethlisberger whomever will get on the team ultimately which is fine. But."

[8:40]" Sometimes I just wonder what the heck people look at it. I think that's more of a reputation vote and anything else. You know far far skating and I think the more. You know. Sort of and up paying homage to what he's done in his career and he makes that big. Melodramatic movie in the offseason going to the Jets and leaving the Packers behind in. You know they've had a a decent year the Jets you know they -- they might win the AFC's they. You know it -- we knew what they do in the playoffs but they've done enough that so maybe they maybe they're giving him too much credit for that turnaround. By giving in the not in the Pro Bowl I agree with that though I think it's I think it's a little. Little far fetched to think that he had that kind of a season."

[9:32]" Let me ask -- the question that I pointed to -- everybody here at the top of the show rather than look at it from a Pro Bowl snub -- prospective. Who got put on this team that doesn't deserve to be there."

[9:46]" Well aren't to me well. And yeah that immediately and I mean I actually don't have it in front Owen and I went. The Internet and you got your credit know -- I think it was it was on a Paul's side of the that I have it here okay. -- give a quick proposal. -- and I am looking for an pretty much from an AFC perspective here but you is that obviously effects the Patriots the most yeah. I actually you know Jay Cutler I think you can argue didn't deserve to be there you know had -- good games but. I I'd been there I think he had a better first half of the season and second half beaten. Just from what I remember the top of my head. Although. It's tough because none of these guys a quarterback really really stood out on like like last year when you had Brady and Manning were clearly at the top of their games. And it was the no matter who that third one you want to throw in there. I don't think anybody really had an overwhelming season at quarterback. Which is why I think Cassell could've. Easily gotten consideration as a probable pick this year do you. Yeah I do."

[10:56]" I think he could have gotten it wouldn't be quite honest with you. You know I look at the stats. Was this morning and yesterday morning -- the other but he I think ranks sixth. In the league in terms of either percentage or rating or something like that within the conference should -- And so I guess I could see why a couple of guys were actually ahead of him but I think one of the quarterbacks and again I have to look at it somewhere much a word is. But one of those guys either color or far. Maybe it was even Manning I'm not sure one album is right behind him. It's on the well then that really should have affected his candidacy and you know I think you have to look at big picture here and say what kind of an effect did this quarterback -- on his team where would this team be if they didn't have him. And yeah I think you have to look at it in a sense. From an MVP perspective. And almost every position. You know who has been most valuable to their team is that really what we're talking about years from being all pro or you know All-Star. -- it was their team and -- and and standing out among your peers that at a certain position right. You know that's that's to me knew what really kind of stands out. But -- he certainly should have gotten some mention he may ultimately who knows who is on the pecking order I assume. But based on the vote that they it is going to go down a list until guys up saying either yes or no one way or the other terms of replacement players you know. I'm not sure how that works Nicklaus. But anyway that's why I'm kind of looking at from a from our perspective in terms of the roster concern. Rather than say who got snubbed. Who shouldn't be there. Who should not -- that actually somebody else what a little bit of a surprise. And sounds like I'm going to pick on the Jets. Darrell Revis made the team defense. And I guess maybe that's just you know an old school in the amateur about rookies rookies really have to be special. Did -- have a especially here in your estimation. I think he had. I think he had a better year than he had last year. Well that's right he's too he's looking at second sector guys that -- yet he certainly played a lot better than and he did a year ago. And I think he really made much of an impact last year unlike. You know a guy like Jerod Mayo via via where you could argue was. Even Pro Bowl worthy currently where they make you are ration I don't have a problem -- not being on the team. Now only because it's -- you know the fact that he is -- rookie and so we're joined now in sudden the playbook now by Gerald Jones."

[13:31]" For the fox -- a call on Sunday here at Gillette Stadium along with Kenny Albert and Tony Siragusa. Alex cricket talk to thinks there's been a couple of at a time was today. They're excellent doing well thanks -- I have to tell you that. One of our -- Patriots football weekly guys. Owns your moose Jersey from the Dallas cowboy days and he says he'll wear it proudly to the game on Sunday just for you. But the but how much do you still get that from from fans."

[14:04]" But at the stadium you know on the and so much around town here you know it -- didn't. To look forward bitten away from the game enough that it it doesn't happen too much here but don't get quite a bit of it so we needed to the stadium on Sunday."

[14:17]" Today even recognize it anymore and you looked like you slimmed down a bunch from when you were blocking for Emmitt Smith who --"

[14:24]" Even more so than war -- to -- looked like in of people couldn't place it in which -- You would certainly support dwindled from ten no idea -- you know the -- and go off in Omaha and -- on Sundays and it's easier for them to recognize you so actually I get a probably more now and it --"

[14:42]" Well that's -- it's always better to be you know. Hey aren't cute or hey -- you used to being fined and not be --"

[14:50]" Legal costs. That -- and -- moment to and so on duty yet those busy schedule a pleasure rushing if you that we elect of the championship but it really can't right now."

[15:01]" Yeah. -- the flight to -- all right. Look let's look at the game then because it's -- a -- a unique matchup the Patriots certainly need this game in order to stay alive in the playoff race Arizona is already there at division champions so. How much shown how much wind is taken out of Arizona's sales people coming into the yeah."

[15:21]" It's -- turn it on line. You know we won the division we we don't want any marquee guys if you get injured they got it to this point pod. You know we really haven't played all that well down the stretch in. You know we kind of need need to get a little winnable it's the momentum before -- to the playoffs the other thing. They had trouble at the Astros. You know -- lost at Washington that lost at New York. -- lost to -- at all you know you you're curious either have to go to your Republicans and -- and oh you have -- camp or eagle whatever they're doing you're gonna have to go east in the Super Bowls and can't this year too. So need any goals that they have. Inflation has started this season of one of the biggest problems that they've had all year. They're going to have to piece directly in the playoffs and in this would be another great opportunity to go east. Two win that game against all -- people that did it's tough fight for their playoff spot. Hey just get some momentum going into the White House."

[16:22]" We talked to -- one of their road these guys yesterday and the fact is that the they're not really expecting too much the fact is that their only thirteen players on the roster that a little bit in the playoffs before. And I should they know how to win at this stage of the game and simply. Think that this team could improve. I just playing well this week and to me that's a sound and surprising to be quite honest with."

[16:47]" So I picked up anymore well. I don't I don't think either you or a lesson from losing or some people would sit. You know maybe this is something the Giants needed to I don't think anything good comes from losing any peaking at east coast and play well loss that'll -- positive comes from that because there's still been out there. But he can experience in the house's -- that situation and media culture that you know that the Patriots would have before they started you know when it first came into the position to be seeing article but it that -- very -- obviously you're through that. Where you know or you're lost there's not all the playoff experience on by. Yeah we got it and now you know or some place -- in 1991 -- playoff experience. But you know media -- because of -- during the regular season you know we're capable skiing. But yeah creature experience and I just don't think the Middle East and being competitive it is something that they can."

[17:48]" Well here's the thing with the with the game obviously we've talked about all the playoff scenarios and -- the Patriots have to do they've obviously got a win they still need a little help. But they I don't know like kickoff on Sunday with a not that some of the help -- already arrived that is if Baltimore for can go on the road and lose -- Dallas in the Patriot."

[18:06]" I would get into the -- as a wild card. If you look at the Patriots team this year. What do you think is the most surprising aspect of this from a positive standpoint and then from the negative standpoint in your estimation is --"

[18:24]" As they welcome injury situation and we had last weekend and you know we announced war. You know security teams missed by starters in the work fit -- well. It would schemes this starters every team that was above the top five of the teams in the NFL teams despise starters were routine that would just that particular leader. Detroit it was in the -- you know was in the here it was Cincinnati. Integrity of people that there's the Patriots victory. So were the only team. In the that it got a shot into the play so losing your franchise quarterback week one. You know being able to overcome all. I think that the most positive thing is they show that they're still very very good team and this same thing people talked about the Giants this year and it is maybe not being the most Celtic group in the NFL with the team that plays the best. I think that was something that people thought about the Patriots during their group run you know I think that what they've done this year is demonstrated that again and it got great depth. They have this system that plays where guys are able to step in and -- a great job. You get a better example of that then having to face injury situation they had this year watching it -- that."

[19:36]" Yeah it's pretty clear to see that defensively. -- struggles the most right now -- a lot of that is because of due to injury does to a lot of the starters. But there a couple of guys that the Patriots just picked up again basically off of the street. In a familiar names in Junior Seau and Rosevelt Colvin come in and played. About half for a little over half each of the last two games since they stepped up. Com. How tough do you think that really is and I ask you for perspective having been a former player and having gone through you know. A lot of the that the physical nature of this game. As you've got a little bit older in the game as well. What do you think it's like for those guys right."

[20:16]" There's familiar with the system that the coming back into the are coming off the street but they're coming back to 218 typically poor -- this system. Ultimately it's shifting -- Indian companies -- yeah -- that -- they'll play the level he's playing right now. You know he plays -- physical position it's not easy to -- and you know for you to be packed up there again in the last month and a -- you know you're wondering if that was enough to just -- maybe it's attributed to slide off into the sunset and -- is back -- so. It is very aggressive very impressive -- Roosevelt in juniors but but really -- I'm very impressed and there's a few guys that -- around the league -- scene where. Where they are -- career still see the level they're playing. Regrets about the what was your."

[21:08]" you you'll so you know talked about Arizona having to come you so many times this year and they had. Much success doing that. There's the forecast calling person snow this week in and apparently don't and I could also. Prove to be yuck. Mitigating fact it was new England and Belichick goes undefeated. Actually both on their undefeated and those in the snow almost you can go all the things. Arizona's passing --"

[21:37]" We'll have to see obviously everybody talks about the weather east coast here talking about a team that they're really let the that it really want -- on the football that much so it would be a big shift in what their game -- would be. Why don't wear gloves mean he's gotten back into work -- he's been ordered them all season long you know he he warm when he was. I don't know the total at that particular play indoors and you know you would you know some nice element that you feel comfortable wearing the -- so you know maybe that helps -- in -- way but you know have to wait actually want to wait and see what kind of neglected because. You know winter is what you make of it that you go to a game -- and whether it's hot. -- worry about it it has an impact Q whether it's it's cold weather extolling. It's really what the players decide to let that impact that now they continue to read always quality you know if you guys are going to struggle you're on the ball. Then that it eventually could become an issue form but there are treated. The coach with an undetectable and company's going to make sure the guys. You know I was in Pittsburgh we played in inclement weather we virtually all the ball you know that worry about it it's excuse why it -- not be so -- culpable --"

[22:44]" That's a good on the brink of -- point in terms -- can wasn't and you bring up their -- Why do you think he has made the difference it would appear here in Arizona -- some others before him. Couldn't get the job done."

[22:57]" Good equipment helicopter right now I don't know that there's been held there for awhile. But I think you have to look at what what you can get this done with a deep -- the coordinator you know what Todd Haley has done. With the offense. 8 Warner it is kind of had a resurgence. There offered the wind it played a little bit better this year. Defensively they've played better up front so it it sort of put your finger on when things. But. I'd I just think they'd be you know is approaches a little bit different then than what industry some of the other coaches. He seems to be manipulative or disciplinarian. And in straight line back. -- so -- say exactly what it is but. It it is Columbia river different reasons and navigate their footsteps running."

[23:44]" As Eagles surprised that they don't put them. Five players on the pro --"

[23:50]" I think -- W. Your Olympic horrible war the unit it it it's pretty impressive. So. That -- relief supplies either."

[24:01]" As somebody who has faced them on the field and as you know covered a lot of their games recently as a broadcaster. Darrell do you think that this is maybe Arizona's best chance to make something happen in the post season. Here yet this year's team."

[24:15]" No no they didn't shoot they have been that -- instability they should have an opportunity. That make this. Com. A steppingstone in my opinion I don't think it's their best opportunity you know I think -- they're young team that got some talent you know it's just come together there's going to be a lot of positive. Momentum going into the offseason that they can build on so I think that this is hopefully the first step in a process that the kind of curious that the NFC west is down a little bit right now and I don't see it turning it around real quickly. So I -- to beat in the benefits from a division in transition -- also."

[24:49]" Is this a chemistry if you think what this Arizona team as to why they're. Not quite hear. Maybe at the level that they obviously aspired to be or do they still lack. In your estimation. A couple of pieces of the puzzle in terms of the the talent level on the on the of field."

[25:05]" Not only has anything to do chemistry. Obviously. You know I think it needs improvement on the offensive line in some areas there they need to articulate that. More balanced and what they're doing what I I think there's talk there I think is good chemistry there. You know it just a few kinks to work out but -- it's looking at moving in the right direction for the first time -- buried them in the a lot of people thought they're going to be. You know two -- three years. -- do it era this early but I I've got him out -- got no problem for record to."

[25:35]" You've got to appreciate that summer league -- The good thanks their. Johnson again will be part of the fox television broadcast. Come out of this Sunday as the fox folks have the national TV game will be with Kenny Albert and Tony's her groups. In the Booth in the goose down on the sideline for the Patriots. And the -- so 1 o'clock eastern time kickoff your -- so there ago gridlock and I as their title like a busy guy didn't. Yeah I was in an airport. South Atlantic season must must be catch and play him maybe he's on his -- at the new England and they get there early in the week yeah. Definitely was noisy wherever it was so let's argue what rarer than what the deal is sometimes you gotta go to got to go at that rare Fox Broadcast. For Patriots games with the well you know win the the the determination of that is somebody asked me that earlier today yet."

[26:28]" hits and two AFC teams playing CBS get the broadcasts if that. If it an NFC team who's there visiting team. Let him block by block at the -- team as you know it's in right. Right -- away fox gets it. Right CDS that's gets old if he related games. Fox at all. NFC related games and like two genders and that's where whoever the visiting conferences. Get that network which is why would the Patriots have been on the road recently outlet used in the games on CBS. Again NFC teams yeah like right San Fran and Seattle right."

[27:05]" Exactly and you know and it obviously last week ordinance -- anyway because it was an AFC team correct -- okay just that. Little clarification and you know try to explain that there were like. Hoop welcome Duke. Well let's just the rule but they do. So that's why you only see a book and maybe a couple of fox games a year. But the Patriots animal orange ball because they only have a couple instances where they would be road team playing at an NFC team being on the rotation is like so. -- so that's good stuff from. At least a little bit of inside their frankly here's the thing that bothers me the most about the game. And I think it's interesting hearing that you know the forecast does call -- looked like some inclement weather which is that your marcher. You know kind of you know quality -- quantity might be on Sunday but you know for Arizona I think they have a chance to beat the Patriots on Sunday. The go ahead they would have to rely almost exclusively -- think I'm Warner fining his two big physical. Mismatch receivers against the Patriots secondary would you agree with -- oh yeah I mean it you know them. Boldin and Fitzgerald are. There -- going to go matchup for those guys and a much it's it's pretty tough I mean Ellis Hobbs has been. No matchup for those guys well. I and that's what all the respect Ellis okay -- you know he's had a good years as a kick returner it's been so so I think at best as a defensive back it's got a little better I think he's I try to look at the big picture here he's had an -- rely on him this year."

[28:33]" Yeah he's he's had his moments I think he's I think he's this is definitely the best series had. One on one with with the other receivers and I think part of that is I think he's playing closer to the line. -- he has been in previous years of other than that infuriates me the most about Deltha O'Neal. When you wait too soft and receivers yeah he's just it's so soft it's like hello did you want to get in the game. Yeah -- and I wonder though sometimes it if that has anything to do with. With how healthy they are because in previous seasons especially last year Hobbs and playing -- a couple of different into Murton and like he had a lot of times he would play. About ten yards off the ball. And guys would take what they what he was giving them and -- a lot of short completions and I wonder if that's because in order to jam the guy. And play tight coverage. You need all that strength because your going up against guys as the receivers were typically bigger than quarterbacks are sure that's I think that's a logical reason for all and that's what teams have burned the Patriots like that because of they have gone up press coverage. Frankly they just can't handle some of those bigger receivers physically right and and and get beat deep and I and I would. I would argue I -- that this year Hobbs has done a better job at that and has played close at the line and I think that has to do with the fact that for the most part he's been healthier than he has. In previous seasons let's let's also --"

[29:49]" Say that it playing those two guys. You're gonna have to get some rollover coverage help okay going to post your safety all -- and the problem is here is that you know they've got two guys who were big and physical and fast right. And so somebody's going to be left in man coverage and so it's going to be up to Kurt Warner. To to find you know that the -- often find out which guys going to be the one that's going to get the least amount of coverage or is he can't double everybody -- of course you go with a dime package package the whole game and frankly I don't know -- that's practical right so you know in that regard if the weather is nasty on Sunday. That only helps the Patriots I don't know that the Cardinals would be equipped enough to be able to pound it out between the time."

[30:29]" I don't think so well that. That rookie has has run pretty well for them. His name's escaping me right now -- yes thank you liked -- So I think they they they might have a little bit of a threat there just on the limited amount that I seen from from him. What what concerns me a little bit more it is. On the O'Neal has come in after a few series in the sort of rotated in and now but. I wonder if the game plan is going to be if Wilhite start that they automatically are picking on him on that side because he's a rookie. And he's he's he's barely bigger than I am and and you know about the same size as Hobbs which is you know pretty short. In 5859. My -- and Boldin Fitzgerald are two really tall receivers really big physical guys so. Hobbs with a little bit of experience under his belt. And if will -- starts he's clearly you know just. Getting used to playing on the edge -- he came in and made the team as -- slot guy and that's kind of what his role as an Auburn to. This is sort of a new area for him you know it's the same. Technically the same position it's a different part of the field that is playing. And to get matched up against a guy like that you know and in the slot you're facing guys who -- more your size more your speed maybe. Now now he has the added pressure going up against one of the two best you know receivers. That they'll they'll face this season. So I wonder if that'll be the target right off the bat if he sees that if Warner sees that they throw the -- the rookie out there. Automatically start throwing that aside and you know I think well I played well. In his defense I think he's done very well actually coming in and playing a position like that he and Bill Belichick talked about today's press conference how much. -- has has has developed this year and in such a short period of time and especially over the course of the last month. Where he's been moved to the outside and it's got a lot more of his reps over there. I just -- will be interest in -- good -- going up against the veteran quarterback like Warner and a couple of really big targets like Arizona has. That'll be the matchup and I'm going to be looking -- is where will high it is and how well he holds up against the --"

[32:47]" Well I think it's certainly yeah. -- when you look at it on paper you have to think well there was probably it was a little bit of an advantage there but. How much does that actually carry over to you know control the football keeping it out of the Patriots offensive and because frankly Arizona's defense has been. Well let's just say it has been lackluster at best at least in this street street would have lost three out of four. I still have a hard time believing that Tarvaris Jackson threw for four touchdowns against their secondary last week at that blows me away."

[33:17]" I was amazed by that score what we were sitting there in the press box in Oakland and and obviously there are other other games on the television screens there were in there and we saw that when he won nothing flashed up when it was about the time when knowing it was a point one and nothing will -- that it totally with is are we seeing that correctly. You know Arizona at home getting getting blown now where it was. I was really shocked by that in. You know kind of brings back memories of that game earlier this year when they came to the meadowlands the plated jet yeah and neither team could stop the other offense. It was you know that back and forth game -- the Jets eventually won. But. Yeah you're right ending New England certainly has it can't put up points and it did so last week against a week Raiders defense and you know that's the case again with the Cardinals this week you know we could be in for another high scoring game again. The -- doesn't that equal things out depending on how much we get here. You know what's the latest on the terms of the weather -- of the earlier today yeah I I looked right before came on. The show it's about 1 o'clock or so -- I did a little weather dot com search try to get the F forecast for the weekend and -- initially there was there were saying. Friday would get snow showers and and Sunday and Monday now it's looking like. Friday Saturday Sunday money for the hole through the whole week and it looks like grinning at some sort of snowfall. The question is how much how much does that today stick accumulation all that though. And now also the timing of when it falls. Right now some of the models they could be later in the day on Sunday so by that point the game could be over who knows that. Still too early to tell what -- but the threat."

[34:58]" Is there you know well you know -- it is you know getting to be late December so anything is to be expected -- I love that I replied I hope there is no idea I was love watching games in -- now. And it's a lot more on the play it is it does kind of at a unique. Bit of -- spice to oldest and oh sure I mean down. I'll never forget that raiders' playoff game here for the division the divisional playoff the actual snowball off that was that was great football. I'd love that I love it and you know where I was for -- noble and."

[35:31]" You were. Probably covering. Prior game at at. Right middle middle of January it up on the road somewhere right yelled yeah I was actually on south beach and look and it really. And we role and was outdoor you know bars up -- all along the Ocean Avenue in on him would be great spot and that we had a huge. Big flat screen TVs at allow side. -- little bit ahead of their time as before -- became prevalent and it'll set up in in that we must -- a crowd of like 5200 people really you know around the -- watching it -- Obviously a couple of idiots recognized you know who I was and so every -- you know we'd -- you know. Patriots would do so that I have to get most stupid first down thing telepathy thing. You know what Britain where you're there for basketball game yeah I was there -- playing the Miami Hurricanes now today aren't in so yeah so that was that was what the deal was about."

[36:27]" I figured I was actually in the parking lot in the overflow press box because they were so many credentials for that game inevitably room in the -- box there was a makeshift. Tent. Out in the parking lot the -- when they had to do that for few of the games -- yeah -- I was there with my my another television producer that it worked with sports anchor. We're sitting up there in the parking lot. Working with of the time WP are right deviant from -- yeah. And so we were hitting out there in the lot watching the game on on television and then the last five minutes in earlier blogs ago. Back in the old city neurological downfield level. With the on the during the last five minutes of the game because -- are you got to the Patriots locker room so for the the game winning overtime field goal. I was right underneath the goal post when when Vinatieri kicked it through in -- Paxson came running up to. To all of us in the end zone -- are doing is snowing or in front of us pretty a pretty memorable time."

[37:27]" And well that was. That's one of the most enduring memories they think oh well that entire season. Well do on the snow Angel and then Tom Brady's look of incredulity. I guess if you pronounce it. After he put his hands to his head yeah and Vilma Randall confetti was all around him after the suitable a couple of long lasting moment from 2001. And frankly. You know we've made this analogy having several times during the course of this year but -- the Patriots were actually able to get that far. Which would be -- truly remarkable -- that would be I think the same feeling about this team. -- going to 2001 like you know what this is a gravy game nobody really expects anything. People. Outside of you know the actual football in the -- nobody really gave the Patriots shot against the Rams that your. And I can't imagine it would give them a shot against whomever it would be the issue whether the Giants or even the Panthers for that matter I don't you know because of you know what the Patriots have been in public the role that they travel this year but. Frankly you know as we've said several times and I gotta say it again now the -- the get this thing they haven't yet been eliminated it is still there for the taking. You have to like defected. This team. -- is full guys who have been here done that. They know what it tasted to get to the next level in the -- keep playing into the third season so to speak and I you know frankly there's just a little part of me. And and maybe this just some although you know I cute picture -- with America being spoiled. Because they are there were all spoiled my successor everybody hate. We we have a job here because the franchise is spoiled by success you know what I'm saying yeah. I mean I of this radio -- you have the writing -- PFW come we all of these jobs because of the success of the thing -- the team -- my guess would be we wouldn't be here right now. Well it would make things a lot of hard area that's well it was certainly make things harder. But I got to think in the other damn thing you want this is the first time since we started as in the as -- eight now. Your eight of doing web radio. You know the way that we've done in the in the eight years that we've done this program as well they actually started dopey of W -- one year prior. It actually started him in in coach Belichick's first year here. And then we came home with the playbook show in the in the 2001. And soul. I got to think of this the first time maybe. That we're looking at not making the playoffs. While -- play we had notion of the night and seven year audio too he had in 2 I mean but that went right down the very end of the season and the everybody anticipated we beat the journalists and that was an upset and in. He probably you know they've. They in the 97 they didn't get help and they obviously in the class but. I think in this is just -- than usual that we can actually be eliminated before. Before especially before the end of the season obviously element it's going to turn out is that the next week -- were going to decided all infect this week I citizen is that -- This week is really decide clips. This one we're going to know I don't think it's going to come down next -- before next game at Buffalo I think the Patriots will already know. Whether they're rendered in."

[40:37]" I think that's it. Probably likely scenario. I would just throw this. Out there John has for consideration Paul -- we were coming down to the press conference earlier today and Paul and Perillo are editor said. You know what just occurred to me so what would happen. If New England. The Jets and Miami all lost this weekend."

[41:01]" How would that affect the playoff -- And we started doing some math. And I think we came to the conclusion that it would actually. Beat the Patriots benefit if that happened you know if they're going to lose this if they were to lose this weekend it would be. Mitigated by the fact that those other two teams had lost because. That sets up the showdown for and -- the Jets and Miami in week seventeen. With that loser being completely out of it right. And depending on which of those teams wins. It could help and a New England might have the tiebreaker over the -- them. So that I I forget exactly -- but we were -- doing the map up in Paul's office before we came down a bullet that won it -- all because they got a better division record. Yeah we we we sit we seemed to come to the conclusion. -- we only does for about. Five minutes before went down at the drop and go downstairs but we seemed to come to the conclusion that it might actually help them if that happened. Now obviously it'll help more of New England beat Arizona and one of those other two teams are both of them lose. But but if if worst case if knowing what happens to lose to Arizona this week and those other two teams lose. That that it would set up -- even more interest in week seventeen. That's that's."

[42:22]" that and we seventeenth quality is I'm wondering why the that the dynamics would change if they lose the tiebreaker. Now with those two teams which they do because of them -- Jets is is divisional record. And I. Of the Dolphins division the conference record -- records I think it might be conference conference they lose -- cover -- that was -- and all but so. How that would change of all three teams lost is because the Patriots -- one less loss in the AFC again and again I I. I forgot exactly how the math worked out but I just remember Paul saying hey you know what this this could work to new England's favor. Optical -- and double check and now -- I'll try to do that before we come back on the here tomorrow trying to clarify that but yeah that the interest you know I mean not I think that would be the farthest of them for a reaches. I don't think all three teams lose although I -- you know I think the Jets are going to have a hard time with Seattle there really do. Is Mike Holmgren last home game. In August I think it's going to be difficult and plus the Jets have not yet won Al west this season. I just think it'll kind of stacks up against him to be quite honestly and I think the scenario is first of all here's what I think will happen. I think the Jets on Saturday first bought in Baltimore loses in Dallas. Yeah and so that opens the wildcard why don't open for the Patriots to -- you know. Slam the door open because of the Baltimore loses the Patriots can win two -- the wild -- Baltimore can't doing about it yeah. And I think that's I think that's very likely to happen but admittedly it's possible that it doesn't. But on top of that I think the Jets lose -- Seattle I think. Probably Miami wins so what that means that is that you would need Miami to beat the Jets and and we don't and all the way around. He beat the Jets to beat Miami in the last week for the -- division game out here for the division right yeah for the division point although the Patriots by a win. At Buffalo they'd clinched the wild card anyway. With Baltimore losing this Margaret would lose via correct so weigh in that regard and Jets lose this week -- if they beat Miami Patriots are division champs. I think it's very very. Believable in terms of the scenario. There there's certainly more scenario then. And you like at this point. Well you know got to get back your original point a year of in and let you gonna help bring it falls or you know I would love to get off on tangent. As with time to kill you know we awful -- that's it it felt like. But the thing here is that this team this team is -- to be in this position. And and -- Johnson even said that a little while ago you know he's at the overwhelming thing that really last Whitney and sticks with me about this team is the fact that their third and he mentioned it was I'm glad you brought up the number because that was about -- up earlier today and I didn't finish the research by apologist for that but. Patriots -- third in in total number of starter games lost in the NFL. Yeah I believe that I believe that there but they're the only team in the top five that right now contending for the playoffs."

[45:19]" That's a testament I think to the coaching and to do the level of talent of the players who that the fill in for those guys that that -- been law sure mean look at I. I'm I'm pleasantly surprised and happy for Matt Cassel the way he's played in the way he's. He's. Attack this season I guess is the waited to look at -- he had a great opportunity. Personally. When when Brady went down obviously does Macias for an get hurt but for him was a great opportunity and took great advantage of he's gotten better every week. He's you know the games they've lost haven't really been. Lost that you can put on his shoulders completely. You know I mean he's done his part in in in pretty much every game and you know he's he's sort of the face of that whole injury situation this year given who yet to -- but you're right with all the other guys though I mean. Meriwether had to step up when when Harrison went down and I think he's done that. Fairly well. You know that after that San Diego game when they gave up -- those big plays in the in and the passing game -- for the Chargers. You know it was looking like that. The bottom is going to fall out of that that that secondary but I think they've done a decent job of keeping the ball keep in the play in front and haven't really surrendered any big plays like that. As as as much they did in that game I think that's that's a testament. To. You know to them the play of meriwether and and even guys like will hide and and O'Neal had the -- in order plug plug the holes there. Not saying that their perfect because they've they've certainly had their share. You know giving up plays whether over the middle or you know just. On third down as -- that's another area where they where they struggled a bit at times but. The deal veterans you mentioned with that when Darryl is on sale and Colvin coming in in. You know I think it really helps that there are guys who've been in the system and you know steep learning curve for him when they got here -- getting in the game and actually playing. You know now they have the situation where an inning give your practice of that today I just -- I was just comes out of it. The they did practice they didn't practice that they practice that outside in the stadium. On the infield yes and I'm not surprised by that because. Of what I'm seeing in this weather forecast I think they're trying to get. Accustomed to what the field with conditions are going to be like on Sunday because they."

[47:49]" Brilliantly today yet for those that are not in the area today it is windy it is cold it was raining yeah best way to describe it were all exactly and a very. Raw today we even had the -- and light snow this morning that's right and I and I -- at a minimum of that on Sunday. At least from you know what's left over if not new stuff that that we get on Sunday right so they were practicing outside on the on the field that to sort of I guess start getting conditioned to that field. And three guys or -- James Sanders. Free safety who's been out. The last couple weeks. That that -- to become a little bit of a troubling thing. I thought maybe we'd we'd see him back by this point but he was out today. After they won't be back before in the week but not a good sign at least having him in the locker room with another bat and usually the guy who's been hurt in the locker room. That's a pretty good indication that he's probably. You know getting ready ago. If not that week. Maybe the next week. And -- in the locker room during the media portion of our locker -- And haven't seen him haven't seen now -- airmen and while Lyle he had the -- mean obviously he's probably not but and his. I didn't realize that he might mean could he be seeking treatment outside India outside the of the premises I doubt that. Nam I really doubt that the extent -- facilities they have here for that thing. And I don't think his injury is anything that would Warren and out side but in it to. I was a little surprised that I in in at all either in the locker room or or on the field but. Again it's only Wednesday made it back -- next couple days but he remains out. Tedy Bruschi remains out. With his with his situation but he will not. And I are -- now. And Matt Light who left the Raiders game with a shoulder injury never came back. Mark of war. Filled in for him at left tackle. There that game he was also so those three guys. I guess two of them weren't really too surprising. And light. You know -- hard expressed some little bit of the president that. That light was and other -- kind of expecting with a shoulder he didn't think it was anything that you know. Because they're the Patriots were so big in that game against the Raiders maybe he thought located as a precaution -- flight out of that game and maybe he'd be back today by."

[50:25]" Well let's I would -- meanwhile -- first of all the lobbying if he and of course. To have Bill Belichick commencing -- in the specifically but an injury like either with the cheers totally out of character for him. So you're literally that everything's okay with that he's not on the field. I can only surmise from that is that -- has given an extra time so he can play on Sunday."

[50:45]" Elect that could be to Mecca that -- a lot of times on Wednesday's. Guys who were. Recovering from a from not that previous Sunday's game. Or coming back from an injury Wednesday is -- Always that -- they come back sometime Thursday and -- You know and it if it's not Wednesday or Thursday he he hero your chances are pretty enough of being there on Sunday because if you just come in on a Friday. And in the walker on Saturday that's really not. Typically enough time to get prepared to play you know it's been done before but. At least starkly with the team the likelihood is severely diminished if you don't you -- you -- on either one of those days. Oh. Tomorrow will be interest in the -- if anything develops there but. And again he was one of those guys that was not seen in the locker room today. I also -- didn't get you know in particular your your thoughts individually on. Both though Welker and discussed in with a nine you you felt like Logan Mankins is someone along those lines money Donald but it was not well I think that's that's funny that you mention. That name Logan Mankins because as I was looking over the list earlier you'd asked me is -- when the on here who made it who probably shouldn't have. And one of the ones attempt out of me was that the AFC starting guards who are Alan Faneca of the Jets. Okay this is -- for the year right. He made at the Pro Bowl last year third year and you know ever since I was drafted guys you know you'd you'd hear broadcaster thing. About how great they -- Mankins was and how each year he sort of was building more that reputation and and finally last year he got the call that Hawaii yeah not typically with. All lineman when I've. Over the years once a guy makes it. The Pro Bowl it's usually kind of hard not to keep including him year after year sort of they sort of developed a reputation as being. The guy like Alan Faneca and has develop that reputation and that's probably the position interior linemen like that is that the that the most unfair because. People don't really know a lot of ways Eric what makes what constitute. An all pro year for offensive guard let's face it that's true and one of the things that you can. View if you want to try to. Analyze an offensive guard they're the ones typically -- to do a lot of appalling. And running downfield and based on draws on on on right receiver screens or or or even you know running -- greens. Mankins is out there a lot base. As a Stephen Neal the other Patriots guard and that's that's an area where if you see. -- position guy with the ball. In that situation his lead blockers general going to going to be. A guard or tackle or or a bigger guy down field that's a great way to that. -- determine if if that if the guard. Is worthy of of Pro Bowl consideration how well he does out there is the athletic but he does he. You know make his block that he -- guys Mankins is always out there and he's always killing people. And if you watch that if you watch a Patriot game it's hard not to see him doing that at least a couple of times a game. And I think once he made it last year I kind of felt like -- make it has gotten that point where now he's going to be one of those guys that develop a reputation. In addition to play he's definitely a solid player or not I'm not things that he's just reputation but that one of those areas where if you watch. Him -- He dominant it doesn't matter who -- goes up against he crushes people. And I don't see. I don't really know much about the Brian Waters guys but. The Kansas City garden made. So I don't I don't really want to say whether or not he deserves it means you know person being and a horrible team but I think. You can make -- case that Faneca got it with the Jets simply because of like like far. They were free agents who went to a new team and the team is doing well in oh okay in my it must have been president let's open and -- Mankins I think it was clearly shown. And he's at that level. Deserve to be on the team and maybe also and that getting it might -- one of these guys will will bow. You know depending on what happens in the -- injury wise or whatever maybe make one up going as an alternate but I think he should a guy and then as the first Velika."

[55:12]" I think the one thing that a lot of fans a look at what you when you when you look at the facts of the AFC roster in some of the Patriots cut two. Andy and also look at and you kind of brought that kind of alluded to already. Kansas City has two players in the Kansas -- two and twelve the Patriots are 9 and 5 what am I missing here. Especially when you add the fact that the Patriots are third in the league in terms of you know started games missed. And this team on his overcome adversity that other teams clearly have not in yet. This team is not rewarded for that."

[55:46]" Yeah on. It's it's. The Pro Bowl as is often there's only one way to put it. It's people love to hate on the Patriots -- You know and especially after the they had last year they had do you guys go to -- they were you know eighteen and one should have been nineteen and now but. Maybe there's elements of that but. I think you also have to consider that. You know the fans do get to vote but the the coaches and and players of the ones who ultimately I think the -- this -- because if you know like last week. Based on the fan balloting. How Ian walker when -- in the top five at their position for as far as votes cast. Which is fine what's what's I was shocked by yemen's -- them and you think well numbers alone. Would have him at least up there -- basket gave it a little bit Moore has. He's usually in the -- Well okay understood but I I don't think you know Joe fan honestly it was outside of New England fans are probably realist when movement smartly follow but. You know Steve -- Pascual who the heck is that. You know he's only been around for three years here's a kid that the he even always up -- topic going to go with somebody whose name is more familiar or they're going to vote for their guy. Regardless of who their guy is maybe maybe -- it I just think in today's age of -- football. People are more knowledgeable players on other teams because they and having them and their own -- their -- guys could also be true. So I I was really surprised that a guy like a husky who has such great numbers. Wasn't in the fans. The top of their minds when it when they came -- like you that maybe they just decided. When it came out of that position it was more of although with my guy and maybe more than people voted work. Redskins fans -- where Shaun Suisham was leading the league in -- I think was was leading the vote and at one point but. But it it all balanced out and I think the right player got. Voted in that position and certainly I think Welker deserved it. This year and you can argue that it deserved it last year too and -- is probably going to break his own record this year so it's probably fitting that it -- this year and you know he's actually had the best. Probably the best. The best year of you know even with Moss and."

[58:03]" On this team he's had a he's he's had a he's been the most visible player other than Cassel. On the offense so. And you know he was asked about the job today in. His credit he said you know I didn't really think there was much of a -- last year because you know look at the guys who didn't make it you can't really argue that the none of those guys. And it -- I shouldn't have so it's like you know there was a lot of us and you know someone had to be the odd man out and this year is getting us props so he's he's happy he's not complaining. And get out yeah I think it."

[58:36]" You know very rarely when you draft a player. To replace somebody as. Accomplished as Adam Vinatieri. Not to that at a kicker at any position when you draft a guy is adequate to take over for somebody else who had its amazing that that. Very rarely I think. And that is just anecdotal but very rarely do you have. The player that you replace. Meet or exceed what the previous burst ended and Eric yeah I would agree I think it's amazing -- to three seasons. How -- gotten to the level. Where and pretty -- he got here he's been mister mister can. He's he's been very record's been an 89 percentile. On field goals by the end of the season. All three seasons ninety's yeah yeah he's been he's been. Better than you couldn't ask for I mean. He's got the point already where it took Vinatieri may be. Two or three times as long to get to that level. The are making the pro ball consistently and you know making a clutch kicks. You -- got the guy that you wanted to replace him and and they hit a home run with that pick I gotta you gotta give it to the Patriots personnel department got a great. And they got the right guy to replace him. So I think you know this his third year kind of like last year with make is in his third year. He got his deal at the."