Pats-Ravens no longer a rivalry game
As we approach the AFC Championship game, it seems like most years the teams often in the game know each other pretty well, and are often division or conference rivals (Colts, Ravens, Jets, Steelers and Patriots).
But leading up to this week, it sure doesn’t feel like a typical AFC rivalry game. Both teams are being incredibly respectful to one another, without even any feud between T-Sizzle and TB12 to put up on bulletin boards. The most newsworthy comment from a player on either team this week came from Ed Reed, and he was talking down his on quarterback and offensive line, not the opponents.
Perhaps both teams want to avoid giving the other any extra motivation. Perhaps there really is a mutual admiration or respect for the other team (despite three close-fought games in the past three years). Or maybe, for two teams with aging players, this week is all about business, and all the talk is going to be done on the field on Sunday.
