Things always look bleak after a loss. And no, there's really no benefit to losing, particularly to a division rival. You hope for the win, because BB is not going to let a team get complacent after a win, so the loss aspect isn't beneficial.
Having said that, things aren't so bad. Brady and the offense overall needs some time to get a rhythm down, and the playcalling has been somewhat uninspired. I do think the O-line play has been a bit worrying, but we're likely to see improvement there through the season.
The defense is very encouraging--the revamped secondary could really be a strength, and the front 7 hasn't played badly. There could be a benefit to Mayo being out for a stretch--if the others step up, when he comes back the Pats could really have something.
Overall, I'd say this is a return to the Pats improving throughout the year and peaking for the playoffs, as they've done when they've won championships. Spare me the 40 point September wins that don't end with a Super Bowl! Losing to the Jets sucks, their fans and coach are annoying, etc. But let 'em have their day in the sun--it will make the Pats' ultimate triumph that much sweeter.
