Callahan: Why the Patriots’ season opener will be more telling than most

Callahan: Why the Patriots’ season opener will be more telling than most

FOXBORO — In his Tennessee days, Mike Vrabel would walk into the first team meeting of every game week with a promise. Do these three or four things, he’d tell his players, and victory will be waiting on the other side. Sometimes, Vrabel’s keys were obvious. Protect the ball. Protect the quarterback. Prevent explosive plays on defense. Others were tailored to the Titans’ upcoming opponent, a particular matchup or scheme. This week, Vrabel has al…