The New England Ego

Well, the New England Patriots "came back" against the Buffalo Bills, who were without defensive player Paul Posluszny, 25-24. The Bills dominated the first three quarters by holding Brady's Patriots to only 13 points.

However, the crucial turning point came after the Pats narrowed it down from 24-13, to 24-19. Leodis McKelvin returned the kick from the end zone, when he could have downed it for a touchback.

Big mistake.

McKelvin ended up fumbling the ball at around the 25 yard line with New England recovering, and eventually scoring the go-ahead touchdown with 50 seconds left. Brady's pass was deep in the end zone, when tight end Ben Watson made the grab.

After the ensuing kickoff, the Bills tried to go ahead, but to no avail. The Pats won, and everyone in New England - at least in my area - is buzzing about the comeback led by Brady.

But is it really a comeback when the other team gives you so many opportunities to win it late? Dick Jauron and the Bills demonstrated poor clock management, misusing their timeouts during their final drive. Precious seconds ticked away after the play when they could have called a timeout immediately.

Plus, is it really a comeback when McKelvin gave the ball away? He could have easily downed the ball in the end zone for a touchback, giving the Buffalo offense the ball at their own 20. Instead, he carelessly chose to take it out and, ironically enough, fumbled it.

Yes, it was an impressive end of the game for New England, but it certainly should not be considered a comeback. The Bills choked in this game, like they have done in many years past. Wide right. Motor City Miracle. So many late, close losses last season. The list goes on...

Buffalo's choke not only gives them a long trip back home, but gives Tom Brady, the rest of the Patriots, and their fans a large ego; large enough to bring back "undefeated" talks.

Next week the Pats will play the rival New York Jets at the Meadowlands. Defensive-minded head coach Rex Ryan impressed Jet fans by pounding the quarterback, and Brady struggled when pressure was put on him. Plus, the Jets beat Houston without defensive end Shaun Ellis due to suspension.

If the Jets can put pressure on Brady, and Bart Scott and David Harris can pound him, it will be a much needed kick in the face, and a blast to the New England ego.