End of a Dynasty?

By David Wedge  |   Tuesday, January 17, 2006  |  Comments( 0 )

New England Patriots
Got something to say?

Sign Up and be the first to comment on this article!
Since the turn of the millennium, the New England Patriots have been the benchmark team in the NFL, reaching pinnacles unheard of in modern day football and overcoming every hurdle thrown in their way. However, this year one hurdle proved too tough to overcome, a playoff road trip to face Denver in the fortress that is Mile High Stadium.

The Patriots turbulent season has been littered with injuries to key players, yet as champions do, they came together battling and stumbling their way into the playoffs. As players began returning from injury, the depleted defense grew as a force and every team in the NFL suddenly began to fear a draw against New England.

The post-season record of the Patriots over the last four years is astonishing and one can only admire all they have achieved. Admiration however can't win Super Bowls and defeat in Denver highlighted two things; that this year's Patriots aren't the team of last season and that playing playoff games away from an icy, hostile Gillette Stadium makes them less of a force.

New England's playoff copybook has finally been blotted, but come January 2007 should the Patriots reach the playoffs, every team in the NFL will still hope they avoid drawing them, especially at Gillette Stadium. Tom Brady and his men have been knocked to the canvas, but they will be up fighting as strong as ever next year.
Got something to say?

Sign Up and be the first to comment on this article! (0)

Article Tools Share!   |  RSS  |  Bleacher Report About Bleacher Report