Past Super QBs endorse Brady decision

NEW ORLEANS -- Tom Brady's next-to-last practice before Sunday's Super Bowl went well, even though he threw two interceptions during Thursday's workout.

More importantly, Brady's sprained left ankle didn't seem to affect him, according to the pool report. He first tested it at the Patriots' Wednesday's practice and, after it ended, was selected as the starter over Drew Bledsoe.

"I think he did all right yesterday, and I think he was a little better today," coach Bill Belichick told a pool reporter after the two-hour workout. "I don't think the ankle will be an issue."

That won't be known until he faces the St. Louis Rams, but the injury incurred in last Sunday's AFC championship game has improved.

He rolled out of the pocket without a limp, and his first pass was a 25-yard strike to Troy Brown. He also threw interceptions to Je'rod Cherry and Leonard Myers.

"You're never happy with everything you see in a practice," Belichick said, "but we have so much to prepare for to play against a great team like the Rams. I'm pleased with the work we got in."

One interception was Brady's fault and the other was the receiver's fault, offensive coordinator Charlie Weis said.

With a temperature of about 80 degrees, the Patriots worked out in helmets, shoulder pads and shorts at Tulane University. Among those watching were Belichick's father Steve, a former assistant football coach at the Naval Academy, and Belichick's childhood friend Mark Fredland.