Schedule Breakdown: A Look at the Next Four Games for the Patriots

Oct 23, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick takes notes against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half at Heinz Field. The Patriots won the game, 27-16. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 23, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick takes notes against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half at Heinz Field. The Patriots won the game, 27-16. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Certainly the easiest of the next four games on the schedule, this one has bloodbath written all over it. The Rams are second-to-last in points per game (17.1) through eight weeks and it won’t get any better for them at Gillette Stadium. Whether it’s Case Keenum or Jared Goff under center, the Rams offense is going to struggle to put points on the board.

Look for the New England rushing attack to fare well against a defense that’s giving up over 100 yards per game on the ground. This is exactly the sort of contest that could see LeGarrette Blount blow up with a multiple touchdown performance. Given the nature of the opponent, it’s likely Josh McDaniels will dial up the running game early and often — exploiting the Rams porous run defense while giving Brady a safer outing to preserve him for the stretch run.

Prediction: New England 42, Los Angeles 10