"Because we already knew who most of their opponents would be since divisions are rotated in a pattern, it was clear that their 2026 opponents would be much more difficult than those they faced this year, at least, on paper. And now that Week 18 has concluded, their opponents have been finalized, and surely, those discrediting their success this year won't have much to say when they continue to win."
"With the Steelers sneaking out the win against the Ravens on Sunday Night Football, the Patriots can add Pittsburgh to their list of stops on next year's schedule, along with the rest of their opponents. The Patriots will be on deck to face eight playoff teams from this season, immediately discrediting anyone ready to suggest they have another year of easy opponents."
"It will be a big test for Mike Vrabel's team, and Drake Maye will have a big opportunity to prove he can be just as good against widely considered better defenses than the ones he faced this year. They'll go into the 2026 offseason with nearly $50 million in cap space to spend in free agency and plenty of draft picks to add even more young talent to the roster."
Preseason consensus predicted the Patriots would miss the playoffs and fail to win double-digit games, but a 14-win season altered that perception. Rotation-based scheduling made 2026 opponents appear tougher on paper, and Week 18 results finalized next season's slate. Pittsburgh was added after the Steelers' win, and the Patriots will face eight playoff teams from 2025. The upcoming schedule will test Mike Vrabel's roster and offer Drake Maye a chance to prove himself against stronger defenses. The team will enter the 2026 offseason with nearly $50 million in cap space and multiple draft picks to add talent.
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