Originally Posted by dalakhani

The pats are always going to be fashionable pick because we are use to them winning this thing. Believe me when I say that this team is a mirage. Sure, they are good enough to be in the playoffs and always must be respected but they are just not good enough to get through the AFC. Too many deficiencies on both sides of the ball. Those recievers are an abomination and rank as one of the worst corps in the NFL. The corners are equally bad and are protected against the bad teams by a great front 7 and Rodney Harrison.

Manning and Belichick are good enough to expose one dimensional or seriously flawed teams. They arent magicians though. They have proven beyond a reasonable doubt that they have no answer for Peyton Manning over the last two seasons. Back in the day when they were beating the colts, they had an all star group of receivers and Ty Law back there to take away one side of the field. Now, they cant match indy's speed and there is no lock down corner to shut down Harrison or Wayne.

A meeting with the Ravens would be even more disastrous. the Ravens will shutdown their run with 6 guys and lay five back into coverage. Mcallister will take away half the field and when Brady has to start forcing it into creases because his bad receivers cant get open, Ed Reed will be there to pick up the pieces.

You are right though that the Chargers could be ripe for a veteran team like the Pats. A rookie QB against those schemes. Schottenheimer hasnt exactly been known for lighting it up in the playoffs. However, if Rivers just plays an average game, the chargers should win.

Having said all of this, I am very impressed with what New England has achieved this year with the talent they have. It is a testament to Brady, Belichick and the front seven that they are even in this position. With the cap space that will be at their disposal, Im sure they will re stock for a serious run next year.