The good news for Patriots fans today is that Troy Brown is active for the first time this season. The bad news? Neither starting tight end, Kyle Brady (foot) and Ben Watson (ankle) are on the inactive list, along with starting guard Stephen Neal. Also inactive is linebacker Chad Brown, OG Billy Yates, newly signed (off the practice squad) defensive back Ray Ventrone, and second-year wideout Chad Jackson. Matt Gutierrez is the emergency third QB.

For the Dolphins, Jason Taylor, who hadn't practiced all week, will apparently play. their inactives included safety Tuff Harris, running back Patrick Cobbs, DT Antonio Bryant, tackles Julius Wilson and Anthony Alabi, defensive end Rob ninkovich and DT Paul Soliai...

As part of the pre-game festivities, Red Sox owner John Henry, slugger David Ortiz and pitcher Curt Schilling were on the sidelines showing off the World Series Trophy, the the applause of the fans who have been slowly filing into Gillette.

 --- TOM KING