"The New England Patriots had the No. 4 overall pick back in April after a horrific 4-13 season, their second four-win year in a row. The miraculous part about 2024 is that going into the year, they weren't favored in a single game: four wins were a major overperformance by Vegas's standards. Fast forward eight months, and New England is the best team in the NFL, sitting atop the AFC at 11-2."
"After their Week 14 bye, they'll take on the Buffalo Bills at home for their second matchup of the year. A win would secure the AFC East and officially lock the Patriots into a top-four playoff spot. Last time, New England was beginning their ascension, beating the Bills 23-20. They haven't lost since. After their matchup with Buffalo, New England will play a division leader, the 6-6 Baltimore Ravens, who are Breech's projected AFC North winners and the No. 4 seed in his playoff picture."
New England entered the year after a 4-13 season with low expectations and the No. 4 overall pick. Vegas did not favor them in any game, making four wins a major overperformance. Eight months later they sit atop the AFC at 11-2. Opponents' average winning percentage is below 40%, prompting complaints about schedule strength. Predictions now list New England as the top candidate to retain the No. 1 seed over Denver. Four games remain; a win over Buffalo would clinch the AFC East and a top-four playoff spot. Remaining matchups include Baltimore and two games against Pittsburgh.
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