New England Patriots fans preparing for home opener and introducing game to new generation
CANTON - A family of New England Patriots fans in Canton, Massachusetts is getting ready for Sunday's home opener and passing down the game day traditions to the newest members.
Firing up the bus
For the most passionate of Pats fans, and especially for season ticket holders, this weekend brings the best time of the year. Preparations for Sunday's home opener are underway, and in Canton, Jimmy Baker's phone is ringing.
"Is there room on the bus? What are we having? Breakfast? Dinner? What are we doing?" he imitates, of family and friends.
The bus is getting a tune up, and the grocery list is growing.
"Eggs, bacon, sausages. We're doing pancakes and omelets. So that will be our Sunday kickoff," said Baker.
"We'll be back"
In this new era of Patriots football, he feels grateful for the glory that was - and optimistic about what's to come.
"It's going to be interesting. We're going to take time. But it's going to come. We'll be back in it again. All these kids have been spoiled over the last 20 years with a great run. We'll be back," Baker said.
The new faces on the field, can't compare to the new faces in the stands beside him.
"The first preseason game I was fortunate to take my grandson there. It was great. It's what it's all about. This one's next. We'll get there," he said, holding his new granddaughter.