My take on the schedule is that it is set up almost ideally for a strong playoff run if they stay healthy.
@TEN - No advantage either way but Titans are a relatively predictable team and you want those early.
ARZ - Cross-country 1PM game. A layup unless the Pats flake out.
@BAL - Poorly set up for the Pats. Likely the only game of the season where the Pats will be underdogs.
@BUF - Also not ideal. Division roadie after their toughest game.
DEN - Still the same Bronco defense that can't handle Brady and co.
@SEA - Cross-country after a late Sunday start. Not ideal if 'Hawks have their act together
JETS - First Jets roadie in a month. Sets up well for Jets if they haven't imploded by then.
@STL - Easiest "road" game since Pats are geographically closer and will have more fans.
BYE - Perfect time for the bye
BUF - 2nd tough roadie in a row for the Bills (Texans)
IND - Coming off 10 day break for Colts but they are a mess
@NYJ - Short week with Jets coming off 2 roadies (SEA, STL). First Pats trip to opponent's stadium in 6 weeks.
@MIA - Late enough that both the weather will be cooler and the Fins will be cold...as in done for the year
HOU - 3rd straight roadie for Texans
SF - 3rd roadie in 4 weeks for Niners
@JAX - Pats own Jags, who will be looking at their position in the draft more than their playoff position
MIA - Fins will be dreaming of South Beach while huddling around heaters
Pats could lose 3 or even 4 games in the first 7 weeks as they do their annual "find out what kind of team we have" stretch. However, the London trip, bye and the 2nd half of the season are ideal for the Pats to enter the playoffs on a roll. And unless someone emerges to keep them from clinching a high seed, they have 2 nice "injury recovery" games to finish the year.
