New England Patriots: Season and Game-by-Game Predictions

Aug 24, 2013; Landover, MD, USA; Buffalo Bills running back C.J. Spiller (28) runs with the ball against the Washington Redskins at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

Week 1 at Buffalo Bills:

Starting the season against Buffalo brings to mind the 2003 season and the infamous “Lawyer Milloy Game”. However, 2013 brings the New England Patriots facing off against either a rookie first round draft pick quarterback making his first career start after missing most of the preseason due to injury or an undrafted rookie quarterback with limited preseason experience in their first game of the season for a team with a new coach and coordinators.  Buffalo had their hands full with New England last season, and running back Stevan Ridley and quarterback Tom Brady are likely drooling in anticipation of taking the field.

Prediction: Patriots 37 – Buffalo 13. Record: 1-0.

Week 2 vs. New York Jets:

The Patriots will match up with the Jets on a Thursday night with short rest following their tilt with Buffalo. The Jets are in disarray on both sides of the ball, and there is no guarantee that wide receiver Santonio Holmes plays after recovering all offseason and preseason from his lisfranc injury. New York lacks weapons on offense–wasting a very good offensive line–and quarterback needs to be sorted out. The defense is still strong, but the Patriots should have an advantage with their athletic wideouts and the Jets not having a lot of quality defenders after Antonio Cromartie to defend them all. The fans will be on the edge of their seats anticipating another butt fumble, but this game may be closer than many think.

Prediction: Patriots 24 – New York 10. Record: 2-0.