The Crisis

Geesh. Is there anybody out there in the sports world who isn't predicting that the 'Fins will occupy the basement of the AFC East this year?

Well, they're probably right. But this brings to mind an important point about Fandome and sticking out the Bad Times. Allow me to (sort of) quote Thomas Paine, who was also a football enthusiast:

THESE are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine anti-Patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their team; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. The Pats, like hell, are not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: it is dearness only that gives every thing its value. Heaven knows how to put a proper price upon its goods; and it would be strange indeed if so celestial an article as THE DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP should not be highly rated. New England, with an army to enforce her tyranny, has declared that she has a right (not only to A THREE-PEAT) but "to BIND us in ALL CASES WHATSOEVER" and if being bound in that manner, is not slavery, then is there not such a thing as slavery upon earth. Even the expression is impious; for so unlimited a power can belong only to God.

Yes, it's tough times here at Valley Pro Player. But we Die-Hards are going to stick it out. And when the 'Fins climb back into the ranks of the Elite (which they will) and suddenly everybody loves them again, I shall go out of my way to pelt such Johnny-Come-Latelies with rocks and garbage.

And Message to all you Pats Fans: Laugh while you can, Monkey-Boys.