How Many Wins Can the Patriots Get Next Season?
With the impactful part of free agency behind us, it is clear the Patriots will look very different next season. They were able to acquire a lot of new pieces with their large salary cap which could potentially set themselves up for the playoffs. Although the specifics of the schedule aren’t set yet for each NFL team, we do know who each team will play and where. Therefore, let’s dive into the Patriots' schedule and evaluate how many wins this team can get next season.
Firstly, let’s look at the Patriots divisional opponents. Over the course of the season, they will play their divisional opponents, the Jets, Dolphins, and Bills, both at home and away, and I expect them to win at least three of those six matchups. The Jets and Dolphins are showing signs of regression which I believe the Patriots with this ascending roster can take advantage of next season. If they are able to win four or more of their divisional games, that will put them firmly in the playoff hunt. They are unlikely to pass the Bills with the amazing play of Josh Allen, but anything can happen.
When looking at their non-divisional opponents there are many opportunities for the Patriots to pick up a lot of wins. With opponents like the Panthers, Raiders, Giants, and Browns at home, and the Titans and Saints on the road, these are all favorable games for the Patriots to win. Most of those teams have instability at the quarterback position currently which this experienced Patriots defense should be able to take advantage of in these games. If they are able to win three divisional games and those non-divisional six games, I have listed we are already talking about the Patriots being a nine-win team. It will be intriguing to see the official schedule for the team here in a few weeks, but it could have major implications for this team’s ability to make the playoffs next season. Either way, the Patriots will have favorable matchups on the docket for next season. However, they will need their young quarterback, Drake Maye, to make some serious improvements in order for any of their offseason moves to matter.
