dropKickMurphy
12-09-2002, 12:58 PM
Following yesterday's games, the Pats have gained even more control of their destiny. With Pittsburgh and Indy both losing, the Pats can gain the coveted first round bye (and a second round home game) by winning their remaining 3 games. That would put the Pats at 11-5.
The best possible record for the AFC South champ would be Pittsburgh, at 10-5-1.
The best possible record for an AFC North team (as long as the Pats beat Tennessee) would be Indy at 11-5. However, the Pats would control the tie breaker against Indy (both would have 8-4 conference records; Pats would be 3-2, the Colts 1-4 against common opponents...Miami, Pitt, Tenn, Denver).
This makes the Monday Night Game HUGE! The Patriots are now not only playing for a playoff spot, but for one of the top 2 seedings...which would give them a realistic shot at defending their title.
The best possible record for the AFC South champ would be Pittsburgh, at 10-5-1.
The best possible record for an AFC North team (as long as the Pats beat Tennessee) would be Indy at 11-5. However, the Pats would control the tie breaker against Indy (both would have 8-4 conference records; Pats would be 3-2, the Colts 1-4 against common opponents...Miami, Pitt, Tenn, Denver).
This makes the Monday Night Game HUGE! The Patriots are now not only playing for a playoff spot, but for one of the top 2 seedings...which would give them a realistic shot at defending their title.