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3 distinct advantages New England Patriots have in the AFC East

By Lou Scataglia

BUFFALO, NEW YORK - JANUARY 15: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots looks on against the Buffalo Bills during the first half in the AFC Wild Card playoff game at Highmark Stadium on January 15, 2022 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images)
BUFFALO, NEW YORK - JANUARY 15: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots looks on against the Buffalo Bills during the first half in the AFC Wild Card playoff game at Highmark Stadium on January 15, 2022 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images) /
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The New England Patriots might have a tough time in the loaded AFC East this year, but they still have a few distinct advantages.  Each team in the NFL, even some of the worst ones, likely have an advantage or two over some of their divisional rivals.  This is the case for the New England Patriots as well.

Sure, they might have a tough time in the division this year, but they’re still a very talented team and they do have a legitimate chance at playing the playoffs in 2022.  There are a few areas on the team overall that they have some advantages, and if all goes well, these advantages should be able to give some a boost throughout the season.

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JANUARY 09: Matt Judon #9 of the New England Patriots looks on prior to the game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on January 09, 2022 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JANUARY 09: Matt Judon #9 of the New England Patriots looks on prior to the game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on January 09, 2022 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

3 distinct advantages Patriots have in the AFC East

Arguably the best defense in the division

The Patriots and the Bills have two of the NFL’s top defenses.  Last year, the Bills were first in scoring defense, and the Patriots were third.  However, the Patriots have fielded a very good defense for the bulk of Bill Belichick’s career in New England.

They’ve been one of the most consistent units in football of this generation, and there’s no reason to believe they they’ll fall off in 2022.  I do think they might have trouble with wide receivers, but overall, having a stout defense in 2022 is going to help them a ton, especially when facing great offenses.

The Dolphins have a solid defense, but they’re in the first year with a new head coach, and the Jets had one of the worst units in the NFL last season, so they’re likely a couple years away from fielding something competent.

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