In the last 11 years or so, maybe even more than that, the New England Patriots have always been one of the best teams in the NFL according to many experts and fans. They’ve always been the favorite to win their division and clinch one of the top spots in the playoff picture. 2020 has been different for them. First, Tom Brady announces he’s leaving the team after 20 seasons. In June, the team signs Cam Newton to a one-year deal. They have Bill Belichick, so nothing can go wrong. After all, he’s the evil genius that can make anything work. Now, the Patriots are 2-4 and in third place in the AFC East. This is their worst starting record since 2002. So, what exactly has gone wrong?
The major contribution to their issues is on the offense once again. This was the same problem last year even with Brady. They don’t have a receiver who can consistently release off the line when the ball is snapped to get any type of separation. Julian Edelman doesn’t look like the same guy, N’Keal Harry is hit or miss. Cam doesn’t have any chemistry with his weapons. Early on, I said they were going to be a run-heavy team until they were able to open the playbook in the passing game. Defenses have bottled up the run, kept Cam in the pocket, and forced him to pass. Speaking of the quarterback, Cam has no confidence right now and it’s showing. Look back in the beginning, he was running around, completing a few short passes and now, he can’t even complete a pass.
I never thought I’d say this, but Bill Belichick hasn’t done a good job of preparing this team. Look at many of the Patriot teams in previous years, they’ve been consistent on both sides of the ball. They could wear you down with the running game and the defense would take away what you do best. They just look lost now. Their next game is a must-win if they want to save their season.
