Quick Hits
--While the Patriots have had unprecedented success in conference championship games with a 6-1 all-time record, they’ve been average in wild-card games.
Following Sunday’s loss, the Patriots are now 4-3 in the wild-card round; Sunday was also their first playoff loss at home since 1978.
--Sunday was New England’s first loss to the Ravens since Baltimore reacquired an NFL franchise in 1996. The Patriots were 5-0 against the Ravens heading into Sunday’s playoff opener, including a victory this past September.
--Teams coached by Bill Belichick usually have more sustained success in the playoffs.
Until Sunday, the Patriots had not lost their playoff opener since 1998 when they got beat in Jacksonville by the Jaguars.
--TE Ben Watson’s contract will be up when free agency begins this offseason. Asked if he wants to return to New England, Watson said, “I’d love to be here,” before adding, “It’s kind of up in the air right now.”
--NT Vince Wilfork is in the same boat. The Patriots never resolved his contract issues this season, so he could hit the market, too, unless a deal is done soon. Said Wilfork: “I want to be a Patriot, but that’s not up to me.”
--QB Tom Brady dodged the issue of whether or not he played with injuries in Sunday’s playoff loss. According to reports, Brady has been suffering from broken ribs throughout the season in addition to various finger and shoulder ailments.
--LB Adalius Thomas is likely done in New England. The once-promising free-agent signing had a dismal season and was often a footnote on defense. Asked about his future with the Patriots, he said, “I’ll let you figure that one out.”
--OL Logan Mankins, a Pro-Bowler this season, hasn’t received a contract extension so he is wondering whether he’ll be back in 2010. Said Mankins: “As you’re cleaning out you’re locker, you kind of think, ‘This could be my last game.’ Hopefully it’s not.”
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