The Patriots have a slew of players listed as questionable, particularly on the defense and offensive line. One significant potential absence could be center Ben Brown, who did not practice this week with a concussion. Coach Jerod Mayo said Lecitus Smith and Cole Strange are potential options to handle snapping duties if Brown is unavailable.

According to Jan. 6, 1964, editions of the Globe the day after the game, Gillman and the Chargers devised a scheme designed to pull star Patriots linebacker Nick Buoniconti away from the middle of the field, which they believed would open up running lanes all the way to Chula Vista.

The Chargers say Justin Herbert is a vocal leader, with the Patriots up next, but most agree: "He speaks his mind, but ... that play is what makes us want to go."