In the end, the New England Patriots will again be raising the Lombardi Trophy, celebrating as confetti rains down on them inside Tampa Bay’s Raymond James Stadium.

That’s my prediction for the Pats’ 2008 season.

Getting there won’t be easy, however.

About a month ago, my father asked me for a prediction on what New England’s record would be this year. At the time, I boldly said 13-3. After watching the four preseason games, I may have overshot just a bit — now I’ll say the Pats will win 11 or 12 games and still win the AFC East.

A couple things have led to the change. The defense didn’t look so hot during the exhibition season, leading one to believe New England might be in more than a few high-scoring games this year; and the offensive line remains a concern, though it did look better last Thursday night with offensive lineman Matt Light back on the field.

But, after last year and the crushing way it ended, I think the Patriots will have no problem with dropping a handful of games so long as they make it into the playoffs relatively healthy to claim the prize they failed to win in February. A couple of losses also means they avoid the stifling pressure that accompanied last season’s pursuit of an undefeated record.

All of this, however, depends on one thing: Tom Brady being able to stay under center. The league’s most valuable player proved just how critical he is to the Patriots by not playing a snap in the preseason; visions of Matt Cassel or Kevin O’Connell starting a couple of games in Brady’s absence must jar offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels out of his sleep.

Some other things I think will happen this season: David Thomas will have a breakout season, taking over the top tight end spot and pulling in 40 catches; Adalius Thomas will have at least 10 sacks from the outside linebacker spot; rookie Matthew Slater will bring at least two kickoffs back for touchdowns; Junior Seau will return; and Ty Warren will get his long-deserved Pro Bowl berth.

If that happens, it’s possible all three of New England’s starting defensive linemen will be headed to Hawaii.

smanza@projo.com