The Patriots started their 12-game winning streak Oct. 5 with a 38-30 victory over the Titans at Gillette Stadium.

As the Pats enter the playoffs after a first-round bye, what are their strengths and weaknesses? What are their keys to victory? How do they matchup against the Titans? How do you stop the always dangerous Steve McNair and Eddie George?

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We're gonna stomp on 'em like cockaroches!!

Los, Boston

PLAY LIKE THEY HAVE BEEN. PLAYING AS A TEAM HAS GOT THEM THE BEST RECORD IN THE NFL, AND WILL GET THEM TO THE SUPERBOWL.

JOE, WAREHAM

Let it snow Let it snow Let it snow !

Paul, Kingston

It's pretty simple, really. The Patriots are playing better now than they were in week 5; the Pats are well rested after two bye weeks (including the Buffalo game, snicker), and have had an extra week to work on perfecting their offensive and defensive schemes. The Titans are about the same team they were in week 5 (a team that couldn't beat an injury-riddled Patriots squad); they just played an emotionally draining and physically punishing game against Baltimore; and for all the manly bluster, Eddie George's injury will likely slow him down a bit. How's that?

Scott, Chelmsford

Just show up. George is really banged up, he won't do much, and McNair is hurt, also, and not mobile. The Pats have the secondary to cover (and abuse) the Titans recievers, and the Pats also have the front-line to pressure McNair. However, I think the defense and special teams of the Pats will have to win this one, because Brady and Co. probably won't move the ball too much against the Titans' D.

Jim, Medford

Just do what we have been doing all season!

Lisa, East Weymouth

Stay focused

George, Peabody

Look, every game in the playoffs is a tough one. The Patriots have set the standard this year for tough games. The Patriots have more depth on the bench than the Titans. The Patriots must have an effective running game this week. They have a better overall defense than the Titans. They must stop Mcnair from running and force him to pass. I don't think it will be a problem stopping Eddie George. Intensity and key turnovers will win this game. Hoping for Snow and Antowain Smith to have a good game.

Joel, overseas military/from NH

The Titans' best players are beat up. McNair is hurting. He threw 3 interceptions against Baltimore and he was looking rusty. Eddie George's shoulder is hurting and is sore and will affect his game. Their defense is beatable, especially with the Pat's diverse offense.

RoxyGuy, Boston

Toughness, by halftime, McNair and George will be watching from wheel chairs, er... (heated wheel chairs).

greeley, sudbury