Fresh off a much-needed bye week, the New England Patriots (5-4) take on the New York Jets (6-3) at Gillette Stadium on Sunday. The Patriots are entering into a pivotal divisional matchup that could have huge ramifications on the close AFC East race.
All four teams—the Patriots, Jets, Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins—would make the playoffs if the season ended today.
With a testy Jets defense and both teams coming off a bye week, there is optimism that this game has all the makings for much-watch television, even if the Patriots seem to have Jets quarterback Zach Wilson’s number.
Let’s take a look at the three keys to the game for the Patriots to boost their chances of sitting atop the AFC East.