Quick-hit thoughts/notes around the New England Patriots and NFL:
1. One potential trickle-down effect for the Patriots in Super Bowl 50 is that if the Broncos win, it puts a New England-at-Denver matchup on the radar as a possibility to open the 2016 season. In addition to hosting New England and their AFC West foes (Chargers, Chiefs, Raiders), the Broncos also will entertain the Colts, Texans, Falcons and Panthers next season. The Patriots have never played in an NFL Thursday opener other than as defending champions.