At the last minute I decided to watch the Super Bowl from home tonight, rather than head to a party. If the Patriots weren't playing, and I didn't want to focus so intently on the game, I would be with friends, but, well, these are the Patriots, and this New Englander is taking nothing for granted.

So when I think of it I'll post a few thoughts here, beginning with the pre-game. Good lord, could Fox stretch this out any longer? What are the chances of returning to simpler days, with the broadcast beginning a few minutes before kickoff, giving the announcers a chance to set the stage, introduct the players, and take one last commercial break before the kick? Close to nothing, I think -- especially with Fox handling the broadcast.

And away we go...