"The 10-2 New England Patriots have locked up their first winning season since 2021 and are headed to the NFL playoffs led by second-year MVP candidate quarterback Drake Maye. While there are five games yet to play to nail down a playoff spot and more, analysts are already contemplating potential opponents. Boston Sports Journal's Greg Bedard has cited the Denver Broncos' defense as a prime threat to any Patriots' playoff run."
"There will be major challenges in the playoffs, no matter who the Patriots play. Quarterback Drake Maye now has a less-than-optimum offensive line and, as a result, an inconsistent running game. These factors put massive pressure on the second-year man to take more of the burden on himself. If the offensive line isn't both keeping a clean pocket and opening rushing lanes, it all comes down to Maye's ability to scramble to find time to pass."
"While all the attention naturally flows to the quarterbacks, wide receivers, and running backs, what's often lost in the haze is the elemental role of the offensive line. The O-line is the key to all of it, and if it's not performing well, not much else will either. Bedard sees a particular NFL defense being a huge threat to any extended Patriots' playoff run."
The 10-2 New England Patriots have their first winning season since 2021 and are headed to the NFL playoffs with quarterback Drake Maye. Five regular-season games remain, but analysts are already considering possible playoff matchups. Greg Bedard names the Denver Broncos' defense as a top threat to any Patriots' postseason run. Offensive-line issues and an inconsistent running game have increased pressure on Maye, forcing him to create plays with his legs and arm. Neutralizing Denver's front will require the Patriots' O-line to deliver consistent pass protection and open rushing lanes. Early optimism in the Mike Vrabel era is notable, but playoff durability will depend on offensive-line performance against elite defenses.
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