For the past 17 seasons, the New England Patriots have dominated the NFL, and head coach Bill Belichick helped create a nearly unstoppable dynasty. Belichick has led the team, and they received several accolades under his watch, including five Super Bowl championships, multiple division titles, and seven AFC conference titles.
Bill Belichick must receive credit for the success of multiple players under his guidance. Tom Brady, Danny Amendola, Chris Hogan, and Julian Edelman were late round picks and, became NFL stars under Belichick's coaching.
Patriots' weaknesses
The Patriots lead the AFC East with a record of 4-2. They've faced a lot of competition early in the season with losses to the Kansas City Chiefs (5-1) and the Carolina Panthers (4-2). Chiefs' quarterback, Alex Smith, and running back, Kareem Hunt, led the offense. The Patriots' defense could not compete.
Against the Panthers, the Patriots faced similar issues. The Patriots' defense struggled throughout the game and, the Panthers took advantage. The Panthers took the lead and, won the game by a field goal. Problems on defense have followed the Patriots throughout the season.
Patriots' strengths
The Patriots' offense is the saving grace of the team. When the defense fails, the offense keeps the team in the game.
Last week against the Jets, the Patriots were down 0-14 through two-quarters of play. In the second half, the Patriots scored 24 unanswered points to secure the win with a final score of 24-17.
Tom Brady makes great decisions under pressure. Against the Texans, Tom Brady led an 85-yard drive in under two minutes and, throw a game-winning touchdown.
With offensive weapons like Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman, the Patriots have one of the best offenses in the league.
Predictions for the season
This year, the Patriots are a Super Bowl contending team. After leading a historic comeback in last year's Super Bowl, there is no doubt that Tom Brady is a legend. In addition, Bill Belichick created one of the most successful sports organizations of all time and, his coaching ability cannot be questioned.
As long as Belichick is the head coach, the Patriots will be in the playoffs.
I believe the Patriots record will be 11-5 by the end of the season. Their defense is too much of a liability for the offense to support. If defensive adjustments are made, then I predict they will end the season 13-3. This record guarantees a first-round bye in the playoffs and the potential for Tom Brady's eighth Super Bowl appearance.
