With the Patriots' opener just days away, the *Boston Globe *offers its 2008 season preview, featuring a look at how New England will try to reclaim the Lombardi Trophy following a loss in Super Bowl XLII.
After remaking their roster heading into the 2007 season, this year's version of the Patriots looks nearly identical.
The *Globe *wonders what would've happened if the Patriots head beaten the Giants to finish 19-0 and also checks in with Tom Brady Sr., who says his son is ready for Week 1.
"He's extraordinarily optimistic and raring to go,” Brady Sr. told the Globe.
The *Boston Herald *also previews the 2008 season, suggesting the Patriots are looking forward following last year's loss in the Super Bowl.
“We start by taking leadership from our head coach and the example that he sets. I don’t think he is too concerned with what anybody did last year, including us,” Tom Bradytold the Herald.
Meanwhile, newly-acquired cornerback Deltha O'Nealis trying to get up speed in hopes of playing in Sunday's opener.
“I’m happy to be a part of something like this,” O'Neal told the Providence Journal.
O'Neal is happy to have a job again after getting cut by the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday.
“I've got a big cheesy grin on my face because I'm happy to be here,” O'Neal told the New Bedford Standard-Times.
The Kansas City Chiefs are moving along in their preparations as well and they're expecting to see Brady on the field this weekend.
“It’s always about preparing as if the starters are going to be there,” Chiefs coach Herman Edwards told the Worcester Telegram & Gazette.
Quick hits
On the national scene, NFL experts are offering up their 2008 predictions while Sports Illustrated looks at the real status of Brady's injured foot.
The Chiefs, meanwhile, are concerned with the Patriots' passing game and expect their young cornerbacks to get tested early and often.
“Usually, most guys go after rookies, so I’ve got to make plays early to let them know I’m ready,” rookie cornerback Brandon Flowers told the* Kansas City Star*.
