New England Patriots Season Preview
The Patriots bounced back from their 7-9 finish in 2020 with a 10-7 season last year, which was good enough for second place in the AFC East and a playoff berth. However, they were knocked out of the playoffs in a blowout loss to the Buffalo Bills.
The Patriots played well on both sides of the ball last season, averaging 27.2 points per game. Which was sixth in the league, while giving up 17.8 points per game which was second in the league.
Offensively, their offensive line wasn’t very good last season and they tried to address their need through the draft, selecting Cole Strange, Chasen Hines, and Andrew Stueber. They resigned offensive lineman Trent Brown and acquired James Ferentz in free agency. And they’re hoping for better play from their line.
The Patriots also managed to resign running back James White. And acquired wide receivers Ty Montgomery and Ty Montgomery, giving quarterback Mac Jones more weapons to work with, so expect their offense to be just as good as it was last season if not better.
New England failed to improve its defense in the offseason after losing Dont’a Hightower, Jamie Collins, Kyle Van Noy, Terez Hall, and Brandon King.
They signed cornerbacks Terrance Mitchell and Malcolm Butler, as well as safety Jabrill Peppers. They also added Marcus Jones and Jack Jones through the draft to improve their secondary.
With the offseason moves they made, the Patriots will be competitive. And have a shot to make the playoffs once again. But they aren’t expected to contend for the Super Bowl, which is why their Super Bowl 2023. Predictions at most sportsbooks have their odds of winning the big game at +2200.
Expect another second-place finish in the AFC East and a quick playoff exit if they make the postseason.
