Talib ready for first playoff experience

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FOXBORO -- Following Wednesday's practice, Aqib Talib was asked if he believed in momentum heading into the playoffs, regarding the Patriots defense posting its first shutout since 2009 in Sunday's regular-season finale.
"I believe in preparing for your next opponent," said Talib. "And I know we're going to have a pretty tough next opponent. So, we're going to do a good job of getting better as a team this week, and preparing for that next team, when it's time to."
Sounds like something a Patriot would say. Sounds like he gets it. Sounds like a veteran who's been there before.
Only, Talib actually hasn't been there before.
In his four-plus seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Talib never played in a playoff game. Now, after being acquired by the Patriots during the season, he's trying to get ready to prepare for his first postseason experience.
"I never got a chance to participate in the postseason," said Talib after Wednesday's practice. "My first chance, I'm definitely looking forward to it."
When wide receiver Wes Welker was asked about the advice he'd give someone who has never experienced playoff football, he said, "I think everybody's tired at this time of year. And you've just got to push through and amp it up another level for the playoffs, and really get that adrenaline going."
Talib said he hasn't picked anyone's brain about what the playoffs are like. He's not concerned though. He believes he's ready to jump right in. Because that's truly the only way he'll get to know.
"I've never been to the postseason, but I'm not a rookie or nothing," said Talib. "Once we get out there and the game starts, it's still football.
"I mean, there was a point in time where they had to see for their selves," he said. "So, I'm just going to have to see for myself what it's like."

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