As the Super Bowl 2012 date and time approach, it appears the New England Patriots may have a date with destiny. The team, led by quarterback Tom Brady, is currently the favorite to win it all.

Right now, just four Super Bowl contenders remain in the NFL, and last year's two finalists are gone. The reigning champion Packers were knocked out by the Giants last weekend, while the Steelers were eliminated by the Broncos two weekends ago. That leaves New England along with the Baltimore Ravens, New York Giants, and San Francisco 49ers. The Pats are favored, mostly thanks to quarterback Tom Brady and his core of receivers. Add to the fact that they have been here before, and won it all before. Experience may trump the up and coming teams.

According to a recent article on NESN, the Pats may have the easy path to another championship. The article notes:

"With Joe Flacco (a mediocre quarterback on his best days) visiting Gillette Stadium on Sunday, and with either Alex Smith or Eli Manning awaiting in the Super Bowl, the Patriots could find themselves taking the easy road to their fourth Super Bowl title."

Of course they are basing this on the opposing quarterbacks that the Patriots may face. However, keep in mind that Eli Manning and the NY Giants defeated the Patriots in a shootout earlier in the NFL's regular season. With that said, and the fact that the Giants also upset the undefeated Patriots in the Super Bowl several seasons ago, revenge comes to mind.

The Pats' defense has been among the worst during the season, but they have one of the best quarterbacks and best coaches around. Some may argue that defense wins championships, but Tom Brady and Bill Bellichick may have something different to say. Then again, maybe the Pats' D will also decide to show up for a few games, just in time.

Will Tom Brady be enough to get the Patriots another Super Bowl victory in 2012? The Super Bowl 2012 date is scheduled for February 5th, 2012 in Indianapolis, Indiana.