Open Thread: New England Patriots @ Indianapolis Colts, Week 9

No players with the flu. No bug-eyed Reche Caldwell. No second-rate linebackers covering a slot tight end.

The Boston Globe's Mike Reiss reported last night that safety Eugene Wilson and the aforementioned Eric Alexander have been downgraded to out. Wilson will be missed, and James Sanders will likely start in his place. That means Rodney Harrison will probably start as well, and that leaves New England a little thin at safety, with Brandon Meriweather first off the bench.

-- vs. --

New England Patriots @ Indianapolis Colts
RCA Dome, Nov. 4, 4:15 p.m.

Tight end Ben Watson, who has missed two games, is expected to play, but probably is not 100 percent. Meanwhile, we all way to hear if Indy wide receiver Marvin Harrison will play.

Official lists of inactives for today's late games have yet to be released.

There's still some time for talk, so any last-minute pregame thoughts (you know, something intelligent) should go here.

Expect an influx of Colts fans. Be nice to them. I'll take care of any "issues."

Enjoy the game, and Go PATRIOTS!!