As the Patriots prepare to face the Jets in this weekend's game, I have been amused by how much some people are doubting the Patriots and giving the Jets so much credit.
Most of the hype is from people watching too much of HBO's "Hard Knocks," and not looking at the big picture. Yes, the Jets made the AFC Championship last year, but only by a miracle. They had a 9-7 record during regular season.
Obviously Tom Brady and the Patriots did not play over the weekend like they did in the 2007-2008 season, when they went undefeated in the regular season and playoffs until they faced the New York Giants in the Superbowl and finished 18-1. During that season, Tom Brady threw 50 Touchdowns, Randy Moss set a NFL record with 23 touchdowns and Wes Welker led the league in receptions.
Last year, Brady was coming off an injury to his knee and a majority of the defense was in its first year. Don't forget: Wes Welker blew out his knee right before the playoffs. The Patriots were not at full strength.
Yes, it's been two years since the Pats dominated, but now Tom Brady is two years removed from his injury and a lot stronger and comfortable with his knee. He is on a mission this year. He will make a point of proving the Patriots are still one of the greats next time the Patriots face the over-hyped New York Jets.
This year, the Patriots are all more prepared. They're a lot stronger, wiser and comfortable in their roles. The team also added some strong players. The message they're all hearing from Head Coach Bill Bellichik is how important it is to win and show everyone who doubts the team how good they truly are.
The Patriots are champions. The Jets on the other hand had no business being in the playoffs last year. If the Patriots were fully healthy last year and the year before, we all know what would have happened. So turn of your HBO, get yourself pumped up and get ready for the next big game.
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