Jim Donaldson of the Providence Journal writes that some of the best games in club history -- or, at least, some of the most memorable -- have been played in the worst conditions. Donaldson takes a look back at the Snow Bowl game from 2002 and the snow plow game from 1982.

Tom Curran of the Providence Journal writes that the Patriots have 10 days to decide whether to make kicker Adam Vinatieri their franchise player or let him join the team's free agents. Vinatieri doesn't know what New England has planned. "I haven't heard a word about anything," Vinatieri said from his offseason Florida home. "I figure it will be one of those things where, when they know, I'll know. I honestly try not to think about it. I've just left it as hopefully we get something done."

Did poor officiating decide the Super Bowl? Dan Shaughnessy, Ron Borges, Mike Reiss and Nick Cafardo all chime in with their opinions.

The *Providence Journal * reports that Derrick Brooks returned an interception 59 yards for a touchdown, the AFC committed six of the Pro Bowl's 10 turnovers, and the NFC rallied for a sloppy 23-17 victory yesterday in a game that didn't turn out to be the offensive show most expected.

Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe offers his daily sports blog with Patriots notes. Reiss is reporting in his blog that the Patriots have hired South Dakota Tech defensive coordinator Josh Boyer as a quality control coach, according to the school. Boyer served as defensive coordinator at South Dakota Tech last season, and he previously coached at Kent State, where new Patriots defensive coordinator Dean Pees was head coach (1998-2003). A quality control coach is often responsible for breaking down opponents' film, scouting preparations and practice assistance.

Tom Curran of the Providence Journal offers his daily sports blog with Patriots notes and commentary.