Why Patriots Falling Short of Super Bowl Would Be Black Mark for Tom Brady

Tom Brady and the New England Patriots lit up scoreboards all season as they secured a 13-3 record and the top seed in the AFC playoffs. They have also won eight straight and look a sure bet to reach yet another Super Bowl.

If the Pats somehow don't get to the big game, it will be a bit of a black mark on Brady's record.

The 34-year-old New England signal-caller turned in yet another outstanding season in 2011. He completed 401 of 611 passes (65.6 percent) for 5,235 yards, with 39 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. His passer rating of 105.6 ranked third in the NFL. 

Two of Brady's weapons had outstanding years as well. Receiver Wes Welker led the NFL in receptions (122) and was second in yards (1,569). Meanwhile, second-year tight end Rob Gronkowski had 90 catches for 1,327 yards and set the NFL record for touchdown receptions by a tight end with 17. 

Fellow tight end Aaron Hernandez was also excellent, grabbing 79 catches for 910 yards and seven touchdowns, while veteran receiver Deion Branch had 51 receptions for 702 yards and five scores. 

Right now, New England's offense has been rolling and the defense has been slowly improving. With the way the Patriots have played lately, it would really be shocking if they didn't reach the Super Bowl.

Brady has led New England to four AFC titles and three Super Bowl championships. This season his offense might be more in sync that it has ever been. If he can't guide this group through the playoffs and into the championship game in Indianapolis, I'll be shocked and it might be a bit of a stain on his legacy.