Is the Patriots 2012 Schedule Too Easy?

Some Call New England Patriots 2012 Schedule a Walk in the Park. Like ESPN’s James Walker: “… my biggest complaint about New England’s schedule is it’s too easy. The Patriots are the reigning AFC champs and do not need the easiest schedule in the NFL. Yes, the AFC East was a weak division last season. There’s nothing the Patriots can do about that. It’s up to the New York Jets, Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills to step up their game. But I’d like to see a talented New England team tested more next season. ” [ESPN]

Donald Trump, Ann Romney’s Birthday, and One Insane-Looking Horse Cake. We have none other than Buddy Valastro (aka the “Cake Boss”) to thank for this cake featuring Ann Romney atop a horse, as well as for providing us with our nomination for what should become the next great internet meme. As for the cake, it looks … delicious? [ABC]

Elizabeth Warren, Scott Brown Go At It Over Tax Returns. Another day, another battle over which pols paid what to the IRS. [WCVB]

Red Sox Clubhouse Mutiny? Au Contraire. Mind you, this whole piece came ahead of last night’s 18-3 embarrassment/implosion/disaster. [Deadspin]

Quick Construction of Bridges Will Be the New Normal. Massachusetts officials — and frustrated drivers — once counted on taking two long years to replace a dilapidated bridge. But now, new construction techniques used on the River Street Bridge mean that the job can be done, start to finish, over a long weekend. Commuters, rejoice. [NYT]

What’s Happening to Loyalty in Southie? In light of the heinous slaying of 67-year-old Barbara Coyne earlier this week, the neighborhood is asking more than a few questions about real loyalty versus a false sense of it. [Herald]