Two supposedly elite NFL teams played games this week against opponents that were widely considered inferior. Each had already clinched its division and was looking to secure better playoff positioning. But while one team, the Patriots, took care of business to the tune of a 34-3 beatdown at the lowly Bills, the other, our hometown Eagles, got whupped by the Vikings 24-14.
What’s the difference between these two teams? It surely isn’t talent. Both the Patriots and Eagles have legitimate Most Valuable Player candidates under center — Tom Brady and Michael Vick — and a good supporting cast. Is it coaching? Perhaps Bill Belichick is the best coach in the NFL, but despite his many detractors, Andy Reid isn’t far behind.
So what really separates these two clubs, both of whom came into their Week 16 games as overwhelming favorites? A hunger to win…