Extra points
McAULAY GETS THE CALL: Today's game between the Patriots and Steelers is scheduled to be refereed by Terry McAulay's crew. The Patriots have not had McAulay's crew in a game this year. In Week 5, the Steelers had McAulay's crew in a 21-0 home win over the Seahawks. Patriots fans might remember McAulay from Super Bowl XXXIX against the Eagles, as he was the referee for that game.
WHAT'S AT STAKE: With a win today, the Patriots would clinch a first-round playoff bye. If the Patriots win, and the Colts lose at Baltimore, the Patriots would clinch homefield advantage throughout the playoffs.
THREE-GAME HOMESTAND: Today's game marks the start of the team's first three-game homestand since 2004. That year, in Weeks 5-7, the Patriots beat Miami, Seattle and the New York Jets in three straight games at home.
We'll plan on filing our next update from Gillette Stadium, leading into the 4:15 p.m. kickoff.
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