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First, the good news...

The New England Patriots have issued a statement on the playing/practice status of linebacker Tedy Bruschi.

“The New England Patriots have been advised that Tedy Bruschi has received unanimous medical clearance from outside specialists in the field of stroke neurology. He has also passed multiple physical examinations by team doctors and has been cleared to resume practicing as early as this week. The Patriots organization is satisfied that Tedy Bruschi has received the best medical attention possible and has been assured that he is medically cleared to resume his playing career. Tedy Bruschi has worked very hard throughout his rehabilitation to return to full health and has been assured by all who have examined him that he has. With the necessary unanimous medical clearances to return, Tedy Bruschi and his family will make the final decision as to whether he returns to the field and begins practicing once again with the team. The Kraft family and the entire Patriots organization want only what is best for Tedy Bruschi and his family and will continue to support his decision.”

Statement from Dr. David Greer, a renowned specialist in Stroke Neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital.

“I have had the opportunity to care for Tedy Bruschi since the day of his stroke eight months ago and have closely monitored his rehabilitation and remarkably rapid rate of recovery. Physically, Tedy is completely back to normal, and is exceptionally healthy. I have no doubt that he will be able to perform physically at a very high level. Tedy’s safety, on and off the field, has always been our number one priority. At this time, I have advised him that, in my opinion, there are no medical reasons for him to delay his return to football. Tedy has asked me not to discuss these matters with the media further, and I will obviously honor that request.”

Now, the bad news.

Patriots 20, Broncos 28

No doubt about it we were outplayed in every aspect of the game. The fact that we were able to come back to within 8 after being down 25 is a testament to what the team can do, but it was too little, too late.

The injury report before the Broncos game...Chad Scott (Out/IR), Kevin Faulk (Out), Matt Light (Out), Monty Beisel (Questionable), Tully Banta-Cain (Questionable), Troy Brown (Questionable), Matt Chatham (Questionable), Corey Dillon (Questionable), Randall Gay (Questionable), Jarvis Green (Questionable), Marquise Hill (Questionable), Larry Izzo (Questionable), Willie McGinest (Questionable), Tyrone Poole (Questionable), James Sanders (Questionable), Guss Scott (Questionable), Richard Seymour (Questionable), Duane Starks (Questionable), Tom Brady (Probable)...when do I start to get worried? So, the Patriots play with injuries. They play with players out for the season. Somehow they find ways to come back, but so far this year...3-3...it's looking pretty sketchy. Just like I thought somehow the Red Sox would pull out another crazy win just because they were the Red Sox...I'm hoping that the Patriots can pull it together over the next ten games and make some magic happen. Maybe Bruschi coming back will be the spark the team needs to Cowboy Up!