That’s how Mike Vrabel has described Sunday’s showdown with the Bills, a perfectly timed visit as the Patriots try to end Buffalo’s five-year reign as AFC East champions. If the Pats win, they clinch the division. It’s that simple.

Vrabel was referring to a pair of Patriots starters currently on injured reserve, left tackle Will Campbell and defensive lineman Milton Williams. The former suffered a reported MCL sprain in Week 12 against the Cincinnati Bengals, with the latter hurting his ankle the previous game against the New York Jets.

Any of these seven candidates could be considered worthy of the award, but the Patriots' and 49ers' coaches have the strongest case.

Patriots coach Mike Vrabel has a long history with beloved ex-linebacker Willie McGinest, who said he is "proud" of his former teammate.

Mike Vrabel 'heartbroken' for former teammate Kevin Faulk and his wife Latisha, who are dealing with the loss of a second daughter.

FOXBOROUGH — Patriots coach Mike Vrabel opened his Wednesday press conference with a note of support for the family of Patriots Hall of Famer Kevin Faulk.

Patriots coach Mike Vrabel commented briefly on injured offensive tackle Will Campbell's injury and recovery status.

Patriots coach Mike Vrabel is hard on his players, but after every game, win or lose, he greets them alone in the tunnel and thanks them.