We are in New England for the Patriots and Chiefs game. It's not that we're trying to jinx the Broncos but thought it would be a good idea to check out the potential opponent in the AFC Championship game. Of course the Broncos need to take care of business on Sunday against the Steelers, but this game is on Saturday! So why not look ahead? With that being said here are 9 observations from New England before kick off.
1. The fake Andy Reid is not only here but has pregame field access which is awesome.
2. Rob Gronkowski is active for the Patriots as is Julian Edelman. Those are two of Tom Brady's favorite targets and if they're not terribly limited is a big positive for New England.
3. They of course serve clam chowder at Gillette Stadium and it's quite good. I also had clam chowder last night for dinner at a place called Joe's. They served it in a bread bowl. I also enjoyed the soggy bread bowl once the chowder (or chowdah as they say here) was gone.
4. Patriots fans and the local media seem to think New England is in trouble. Many people picking the Chiefs to win this game which is why I think the Patriots will win by 20.
5. Jeremy Maclin is active for the Chiefs but could be pretty limited. He wasn't going to miss this opportunity but we'll see how much he adds to a Chiefs offense that needs him.
6. They grill muffins here. Ever heard of that? I hadn't. The server at breakfast this morning couldn't believe we had never heard of a grilled muffin. I ordered one. It was terrific. I need someone, somewhere in Denver to start grilling muffins.
7. People here think I have an accent which is weird because they're the ones with the accents right?
8. Kansas City has won 11 straight games but the Chiefs are 3-4 against teams that made the playoffs. The Patriots finished 3-1 against post-season teams this year. Their one loss was to the Broncos.
9. Patriots fans are passionate. Tailgate lots were packed many hours before kick-off.
We'll see what happens but I think the Pats win, and maybe easily. It's going to be Patriots and Broncos next week at Sports Authority Field. Uh-oh, maybe I DID jinx the Broncos now.
