INDIANAPOLIS -- The New England Patriots arrived in Indianapolis for Super Bowl week on Sunday evening, with All-Pro receiver Wes Welker requiring an explanation of Hoosier hospitality.
"What is Hoosier hospitality? What does that consist of?" Welker asked to laughs before getting a full explanation from a local television reporter about the Patriots-Indianapolis Colts' rivalry. "I think it will be a little strange practicing at the Colts' facility. I don't know how many people like that, but we'll be calm and polite and not try to rub it in, so I hope everyone is appreciative of it."
Coach Bill Belichick, dressed in a suit -- no hoodie for the coach this time -- also said All-Pro tight end Rob Gronkowski is "day to day" with a high left ankle sprain for Super Bowl XLVI against the New York Giants. Gronkowski has been wearing a walking boot since being injured in the AFC Championship Game.
"You've got to prepare for every one of these situations that come up," quarterback Tom Brady said of the possibility Gronkowski will be limited for sidelined. "You always have to have some contingency plans."
Brady knows the Giants will bring a fierce pass rush, but for now he was more comforted by not having to face a local rival who frequently has put Brady on his back.
"I see Dwight Freeney's picture up there (on the stadium)," Brady said. "When you come to Indy and don't have to play him, we are very fortunate for that."
Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press
