The New England Patriots are back in the AFC Championship Game, as they host the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday afternoon with the winner advancing to Super Bowl XLIV. The weather in Foxborough is not going to be too terrible, as there is only a slight chance of snow. But still, 32 degrees at 3:30 p.m. game time doesn’t call for shorts and a tee shirt. The wind will blow about 10 mph making it feel like 24 degrees.
There are all kinds of tailgating experiences to be had at Gillette Stadium, and if you’re heading out to chilly Foxborough, MA this weekend, here are three things to be aware of.
1) REVENGE
Two years ago the Ravens also visited the Patriots in the playoffs. Baltimore running back Ray Rice ran for an 83-yard touchdown on the first play from scrimmage, and the rout was on. The Ravens won that game 33-14, forcing New England star quarterback Tom Brady to turn the ball over four times (three interceptions and one fumble). The defeat was New England’s first playoff loss on its home turf since 1978. But the Patriots are currently riding a nine-game winning streak, and Brady threw six touchdown passes in last Saturday’s 45-10 blowout of Denver in the first round of the playoffs.
2) GET ON THE BUS
Not only is parking ridiculously expensive ($50 and up for one spot) around Gillette Stadium, trying to navigate on Route 1 is also rather difficult with just two lanes on either side and fans not always choosing to use proper crosswalks. But if you’re located near Boston, Brookline, Dedham, Foxborough or Norwood, MA, you can hop on the Patriots Bowl Bus. This luxury charter bus lets you begin the party early and safely. Another bus service catering to loud partying is the Bustonian pictured above.
3) TICKLING THE TASTE BUDS
One of the many great things about a team from New England is that you have fans from at least eight states (MA, CT, RI, VT, NH, ME, NY, NJ) in attendance. And that means a huge variety of food. In addition to the meat staples, many Northeasterners whip up the jumbalaya, clam chowder and other seafood delicacies fill the air with an aroma like no other. Tailgating always starts early in Foxborough, and usually continues well after the game, so be prepared for a long day and night.
