Hours Before Kickoff: Week 16

Well it's a clear as day now. In order to get in, the Patriots must win out and get some much needed help.

Assistance wasn't provided last night as Dallas gave away their final game at Texas Stadium to visiting Baltimore. And how the Ravens won was unbelievable. Two consecutive runs gained 159 yards and two touchdowns. The Cowboys looked more like security detail clearing the way through the paparazzi than defenders going in for the tackle.

So thanks to the 'Boys feeling generous during the holidays, the Pats are now in a corner with very slim chances of getting into the playoffs.

At least the conditions are in New England's favor today. Some Arizona players might feel like they stepped onto the surface of Saturn when they walk onto the field. It probably has been years since some of those Cardinals players played in the snow. For sure, with thinned blood from playing in near tropical conditions at home, they will be cold. More than anything, they have to slow down because traction will be terrible. There isn't a better way to cool off a hot offense.

Of course it works both ways. N.E. has to be cautious to keep their feet underneath them. But the cold won't be on their minds as much as it will be for 'Zona. Head coach Bill Belichick practiced outdoors all week to get the team acclimated to the conditions. I'm sure how the team struggled in Seattle's chilly rain storm is still fresh in his mind. There won't be any excuses for poor play today.

Naturally the way to adjust to bad weather is a strong run game. As it so happens, their defenses are ranked 15th (Cardinals) and 16th (Patriots) against the run. Just like against the Oakland Raiders, a healthy dose of pounding the rock would be in order for the Pats. That resulted in 277 yards on the ground. Now 'Zona is better defensively than Oakland, but I can see them missing tackles because they can't grip like they used to.

This could be a game where RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis is activated as well. He wasn't on the active roster last week, but because Sammy Morris and LaMont Jordan missed games due to injuries earlier this season, Green-Ellis would be insurance in case either Morris or Jordan slips and pulls something during the game. Stuff like that happens in weather like this. But as a team, the Patriots can't afford to lose their footing and fall further behind Miami and the New York Jets.

Here's a few things I'm looking for:

Red State Values - The Cardinals are from Republican Arizona, but don't be surprised if both teams have conservative approaches.

Health or Home - The Cardinals are playing for playoff positioning at this point, but if the field conditions are deemed dangerous, do they protect the starters?

On A. Rolle -Arizona used safety Antrel Rolle on offense. If they sneak him onto the field, expect the play to go to him. Make sure he's covered.

Just like New Englanders behind the wheel, the Patriots must drive slowly and methodically to get to their destination. Failure to adjust will cost the Cardinals as the Patriots survive a wild game.