"For much of the 2025 offseason, there was a strong belief that the New England Patriots' offense would be the biggest concern for the season ahead, mainly because a lot of money was spent on improving the defense in free agency. While that hasn't necessarily been the case so far, there have been defensive flaws that continue to be a problem each week and could create chaos in the games leading to the playoffs."
"After allowing the Bengals' offense to score a 54-yard field goal on their opening drive, that marked the ninth time this season the Patriots' defense allowed a score on the first series by their opponent. It's a trend that no head coach or coordinator wants to see, and yet it remains the most frustrating part of the defense's identity this season."
"The fortunate part is that after a rough first drive or two by the group, they seem to buckle down and become the solid force we've come to appreciate this season, although it might be a bumpy ride until they get there. But there is a concern going into the final stretch of the season, with teams like the Bills and Ravens left on the schedule, where they won't have weaker opponents to count on if they fall behind, so something needs to change fast."
A preseason expectation centered on offensive concerns after heavy defensive spending shifted as the defense performed strongly overall. A recurring flaw emerged where opponents frequently score on opening drives, occurring nine times this season and often forcing the offense into catch-up mode. The team has responded by tightening play after early lapses, compiling a nine-game winning streak and a 10-2 record entering Week 13. Remaining matchups against teams like the Bills and Ravens increase the stakes for eliminating early breakdowns. The situation is compounded by injuries, with key contributors sidelined and urgency to correct the trend before the playoffs.
Read at Musket Fire
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