The New England Patriots will start the 2024 NFL season on the road, and against a formidable opponent. The Cincinnati Bengals are a playoff-caliber team, even after failing to reach the tournament last season.
For the Patriots to come away victoriously, a lot has to go right in all three phases of the game. Likewise, the room for error will be minimal, especially in a Week 1 game in an opposing stadium. The pressure to perform up to the proper level will therefore not just be on one individual, but the collective as well: the Patriots need to play consistent football across the board if they want to start the season 1-0.