MVN: Most Valuable Network

Tomorrow the Raiders play their final game of the season against the San Diego Chargers. Seventeen weeks ago optimism ruled the day for the Raider Nation, as well as 31 other teams. Today, the New England Patriots bask in the glow of their tainted accomplishment whilst the Raider Nation licks the wounds from another double digit loss season. Maybe I am not the only one who is not in a hurry to congratulate the Pats on running the table this season, but thats because I am revolted by the idea of hearing ESPN spending the next six months comparing them to the great teams of the past.

Yeah, I know this sounds like a bitter fan of a team with a losing record, but its more than that. My disclaimer is that I cannot stand the Patriots, and haven't been since the NFL handed them a win on a snowy January night amid the patriotic frenzy of post 9-11 America.

Since 9-11, suddenly the Patriots can do no wrong. Tom Brady fumbles and costs them the game to the Raiders? No worries, just invent the tuck rule. The Pats can't convert a fourth down late in the game against the Ravens? Call a ticky tack defensive penalty and give them another chance. It must be nice to have the NFL hand you game after game and call after call.

the sad thing is that ESPN is going to spend the entire offseason slobbering over how great they are. Frankly, the Patriots' season is more a testament to the diluted talent pool that is the NFL, the rule changes that have softened the game, and the favoritism of the NFL than their own greatness. Vince Lombardi's Packers, Chuck Knoll's Steeler, John Madden's Raiders, Tom Landry's Cowboys, Bill Walsh's 49ers, or Don Shula's Dolphins would embarrass this supposed "dynasty."

The NFL has gotten what they want, their golden boys have reached the perfect season, and I don't forsee them losing in the playoffs. Its hard to have to play against a very good team (Which I will give the Patsies that much credit) and the officiating crew. Maybe someone will actually give Brady a good solid hit. (Oh wait if he is not cradled its a 15 yard "rouging the golden boy" penalty and likely a fine.) Moss won't get called for the same pushing off that he would get flagged for during his time in Oakland, thats for sure. I may watch a playoff game and hope for an upset.