Recap: The NFL’s reigning dynasty remains one of the league’s best team and currently owns a two-game lead in the AFC East. But at times, the New England Patriots have been a little bit mystifying. The club has not performed very well on the road, with all three of its losses the season occurring away from the friendly confines of Foxborough and each by double digits. While quarterback Tom Brady remains one of the masters of his craft and the offense has been better as of late, injuries to rookie running back Sony Michel and tight end Rob Gronkowski haven’t helped. And Bill Belichick’s defense has been subpar for the second consecutive year.
Next Week: Dating back to realignment in 2002, no team in the NFL owns a better divisional record then the Patriots. The team has already easily disposed of the Dolphins (38-7) and Bills (25-6) this year and now head to MetLife Stadium to take on the Jets. New England has prevailed in 12 of the last 14 meetings dating back to 2011.
Playoff hopes: Even with all of their flaws, the Patriots still own the top spot in the AFC East. And it would take a big effort from one of the other three clubs to derail the team on the way to another division title and an NFL-record 10th consecutive playoff appearance. And just when you think this club is on the decline, well…
Next: No. 6