10 reasons why the Patriots are undefeated

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6. Turnover differential

The Patriots’ turnover differential of plus-seven is tied for second in the league with the Green Bay Packers and just a hair behind the New York Giants. The offense has turned the ball over just three times, which is the fewest amount among all 32 NFL teams entering Week 9.

On defense, the Patriots are doing a fine job of forcing turnovers, although one could argue there is room for improvement. The group has grabbed eight interceptions and a pair of fumbles to tally a total of 10 takeaways. It’d be nice to see that number approach 30 by the end of the season.

Perhaps no other coach stresses the importance of winning the turnover battle as much as Bill Belichick. Thus far, the 2015 Patriots are as shrewd with the ball on offense as any incarnation of Belichick’s Patriots. The defense isn’t as ball hawking as, say, the 2003 or 2007 Pats, but they could get there.

As long as the Pats rank in the top five, six teams in terms of turnover differential, they will likely stay undefeated.

Next: 5. Trio of outstanding rookie offensive linemen