The Patriots preseason game from a couple of years ago was pretty chippy, as I recall. Morstead got hurt being the hero on a meaningless punt return. I wonder if Payton being out affects the dynamic. I know if Payton were there, he and Belichick would be constantly playing gentlemanly invisible Jedi mind tricks on each other all night.

I think Belichick is actually going to HELP the Saints the most, since he and Payton respect each other. I feel like that game will probably be the most like a scrimmage; I think the two coaches may actually collude and discuss plays, schemes, what they are going to want to do, beforehand. Each will want to look at specific things on each of their teams. Belichick has said some things in the press, that make me think he likes and respects Payton and the Saints, and I think he actually wants Vitt and the crew to succeed.