FOXBORO — For 11 months, the Patriots ready to make one other run on the postseason.
They lifted, ran, skilled and practiced, held conferences and studied movie for 1000’s upon 1000’s of hours. But with one loss Saturday to Cincinnati, these hopes seemed to be gone.
Then, due to Miami’s loss to Green Bay on Sunday, the Patriots had their destiny positioned again into their arms. At 7-8, the Pats can nonetheless clinch a Wild Card spot in the event that they win out, beating the Dolphins at residence subsequent weekend and successful at Buffalo in Week 18. For now, Miami stays a recreation forward of the Patriots at 8-7.
But if the Pats lose Sunday, they are going to be eradicated from playoff rivalry. If so, as a staff that may have misplaced 5 of its final seven and failed in its season-long purpose, what can be left to play for?
Here’s what gamers stated post-game Saturday:
RB Rhamondre Stevenson
“I mean, nothing has changed. I’m still coming here every day trying to work and get better, and I feel like the rest of the team is doing the same. Same thing, just grinding it out.”
WR Jakobi Meyers
“We’ve got some great vets on the team and some great young guys who are hungry to make plays. Honestly all we have to do is follow the words they say, follow the foundation that’s already been set. We are professionals at the end of the day. So it shouldn’t be too tough.”
WR Tyquan Thornton
“Come in, compete and continue to improve. That’s what it’s about. Competing and getting better.”
WR Kendrick Bourne
“Just proving to our team, us as individuals that we still want to be here, that we want to play hard, that we care. I think all of us, that’s what matters. Who cares, and who doesn’t.”
S Adrian Phillips
“It’s tough. You have to find something that motivates you to go out there and play the game, because at the end of the day we are getting paid to go out there and do a job. Whether the motivation be your fan base or monetary, you have to find that, just have a short memory and don’t let it get to you so we can end the season the right way. You have to still give yourself the best chance to be able to go in the postseason if there is still an opportunity.”
Source: www.bostonherald.com