Pats opponents 2006, Gino dissed again...

The Pats schedule for '06 is now available.

Home: Bills, Dolphins, Jets, Texans, Colts, Broncos, Bears and Lions.

Away: Bills, Dolphins, Jets, Jaguars, Titans, Bengals, Packers and Vikings.

Of course, The Pats still have some games left to play on this year's schedule don't they?

The Pats face a difficult challenge this weekend out in Denver. Let's face it, historically, The Pats have not done well against Denver, especially when playing them at home. However, in the last few years, The Pats have turned things around a bit and have split the last 6 meetings with The Broncos.

The Patriots team that the Broncos will face in the playoffs this week is vastly different and greatly improved over the team that they played during the regular season. As you've probably read in about 10 other Pats sites, the Pats will be playing with Seymour, Bruschi, Mankins, Dillon, and Faulk this time around; key players who were all missing from the lineup for the 1st Broncos match-up during the regular season. In addition to that, we have a defensive backfield who's play is markedly improved over the group that took the field in October.

If the Patriots defensive line can stop the run, and I am confident that they can, that puts pressure on Jake the Snake. I expect to see Colvin and McGinnist turned loose in this game and hopefully this will press The Snake into a mistake (I'm a poet and didn't know it!). Additionally, the consistency and improved play of the front seven helps take the pressure off our secondary. The big plays have been cut down.

What this all comes down to, is that although the Pats will certainly be in a difficult and hostile environment, they still have an excellent chance at taking this game and moving on to the next round.

Well, as you can see, I've done an excellent job of talking myself out of all my worries in this game Saturday. The problem is, I can try and talk myself into a guaranteed win all I want, but talk is cheap. I think The Pats have a very good shot, but they cannot make mistakes. This cliche is totally true: The Pats need to play their best game of the year Saturday.

In the other AFC match this weekend, I will be shocked if Pittsburgh beats Indy, but I am hoping they will at least smack the Colts around and beat them up a little. Indy has not faced a 'tough' opponent in many weeks and may not be used to the smack that Pittsburgh is sure to bring.

If the Pats can get past Denver, hopefully they will face up against a very sore Indianapolis squad. First things first though... It's still 3 Games to Glory. The Playoffs are stressful, but I expect the stress-o-meter to get jacked up to the max for this Denver game.

In other Pats news, Gino Cappilletti was once again dissed in the NFL Hall of Fame ballot.

(Patriots.com)

What the hell? Seriously. Who fucking votes for this thing anyway?? Gino should be in Canton. End of discussion.