Patriots 25, Bills 24

On a Monday night in early October, 2007, just before the Bills snatched defeat from the jaws of victory against Dallas on that emotional return to MNF in Orchard Park, when the Cowboys onside kick was successful, I said "and this is how we lose this game". In what seems to be a sort of a Monday night tradition, I said it again last night as Leodis McKelvin fumbled the kick-off return. I can't recall saying it last year against Cleveland but I am sure that there would have been a perfect time to have said it. The league should schedule Buffalo to play 3 or 4 Monday night games every year. For fans of the opposing teams or casual observers, they are very entertaining games - and in a league which features more than its share of klunkers, the ESPN gang would welcome it too.

Buffalo's offense could not have much confidence after their anemic performance in the pre-season. They were committed to the no-huddle approach with 3 starting offensive linemen who had never played a down in a real NFL game. Vince Wolfork was really looking forward to this game and a chance to pad his stats. The Bills would be down bt at least 3 touchdowns by halftime and I would be able to get a few things done around the condo.

I don't think I have ever heard it suggested that Dick Jauron's teams don't play hard. His game management is poor at times, players are undisciplined (and they could use some better players - and a real GM) but the effort is always there. Last night was no exception. They tried hard, played well above expectations in this game but were one key error from pulling a huge upset. They committed that error and Tom Brady made them pay.

How good was Fred Jackson in this game? This guy is incredible....... Can someone please show Demetrius Bell where the line of scrimmage is? ......There were at least three key dropped passes tonight..... I officially don't understand the rules around tackling a quarterback. There were two penalties called on the Patriots for roughing the quarterback which seemed questionable........ Trent Edwards looked comfortable and confident running the no huddle offense..........Dick Jauron's facial expressions and body language, however, do not convey a feeling of confidence........ Paul Pozluzny's left arm needs a permanent cast now it seems..... Jon Gruden is a great additition to the MNF broadcast team........

This wears thin over 10 years but the Bills have many positives to take from this game. The Patriots visit Orchard Park on December 20th. Imagine if that game means anything for the Bills - other than a chance at revenge.

Next up, 2 home games against NFC South teams starting with the home opener against one of the weaker teams in the league, the Tampa Bay Bucs, who also fired their offensive coordinator last week. I can't remember the last time they visited Buffalo but it has been many years. Then, a big test as Drew Brees and the high flying Saints come in for their first visit since 2001.