Taking Oates to Task for Past Predictions

Take heart, Bob Oates. Though your beloved AFC took the fall to the dreaded NFC this season in interconference games, 33-19, you can find solace in the joy you bring your dear readers--to summon chortles, I think of your pronouncements past, your mantras of mirth: The AFC will be the conference of the ‘80s; the Patriots will beat the Bears in the ’86 Super Bowl; Joe Montana is responsible for the 49ers’ loss to the Giants in the ’91 NFC championship game; Steve Young doesn’t fit into the 49ers’ system. Keep those laughs coming, Bob. WILL HUTCHINS

Los Angeles