It was a banner night at Gillette Stadium as the Patriots unveiled their 2004 championship banner as part of the pregame festivities. The surprise of the night came as rocker Ozzy Ozborne came out to sing his song "Crazy Train" as the Patriots players took the field. Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe, Jim Donaldson of the Providence Journal and Rich Thompson of the Boston Herald all offer a story on the pregame celebration.
In what was somewhat of a shootout between the Patriots and Raiders, the Patriots came out on top 30-20. The win was the Patriots 21'st victory in a row at Gillette Stadium, a home winning streak that goes all the way back to 2002. Tom Curran of the Providence Journal, Jerome Solomon of the Boston Globe, Karen Guregian of the Boston Herald all offer a recap of the game.
Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe writes that wide receiver Deion Branch in his first game action since the Super Bowl was impressive finishing the night with the team high of seven catches for 99 yards. "Deion is setting a standard for our receiving corps," quarterback Tom Brady said. "He has a great understanding of playing receiver, he's like a point guard playing receiver. He understands defenses, running routes, and has a lot of great, physical skills. He's strong, quick, has great hands and great vision. The mental part of the game comes easy to him."
Jerome Solomon of the Boston Globe writes that fan favorite and longtime receiver Troy Brown had doubts during training camp about his role on this team, but last night, he was right back where he has been -- a focal point in the Patriots' offense. Brown collected six receptions for 51 yards in the Patriots' 30-20 victory over the Raiders at Gillette Stadium.
Tom Curran of the Providence Journal offers his daily sports blog with Patriots notes and commentary.
Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe offers his daily sports blog with Patriots notes.
