Brady understands the urgency as Pats enjoy bye

FOXBOROUGH (AP) - Tom Brady was 24 years old in his first season as a starter. It ended with a Super Bowl title.

Now he's 35 and without a championship in seven years.

Yet as the time remaining in his career decreases, the 13-year veteran doesn't consider each playoff opportunity more meaningful. For Brady, every chance is important.

The New England Patriots (12-4) have a bye this weekend when they find out who they'll host in the divisional round on Jan. 13. The Houston Texans will visit if they beat the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday. Otherwise, the Patriots will face the winner of Sunday's other AFC wild-card game between the Baltimore Ravens and Indianapolis Colts.

They've played all three this season, beating the Colts 59-24 and Texans 42-14 and losing to the Ravens 31-30.

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