New England Patriots: Season and Game-by-Game Predictions
By Hal Bent
Aug 29, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez. Mandatory Credit: John O
Week 7 at New York Jets:
Playing the New York Jets again early in the season could give the New England Patriots an advantage, as the Jets will likely be out of contention again in the second half and playing with nothing to lose and young, aggressive players getting a chance to impress the other thirty-one teams. Jets coach Rex Ryan is a lame duck without any contract extension and a new general manager above him, and a 1-5 Jets team could be ready to implode. The Patriots may have a chance to take out their aggression after a few close games.
Prediction: Patriots 45 – New York 3 Record: 5-2.
Week 8 vs. Miami Dolphins:
The Patriots last saw the Miami Dolphins in week seventeen of the 2012 season and saw a young team that quit on their coach and just wanted to go home. Yes, the Dolphins spent a lot of money this offseason, but Buffalo showed last season that winning the offseason does not mean much once the season starts. On offense, wide receiver Mike Wallace is a huge question mark now that he is in the spotlight at last, quarterback Ryan Tannehill lost his best offensive weapon in Reggie Bush, and safety valve tight end Dustin Keller is out for the season. At home, expect New England to continue their ongoing devastation of the AFC East.
Prediction: Patriots 34 – Miami 10 Record: 6-2.