For all of the consternation about New England's offense -- Why are they installing a new system? Who's calling plays? -- the Patriots' success in 2022 may hinge on the other side of the ball.
The Patriots' defense failed them down the stretch in 2021, allowing 27 or more points in three of their final four regular-season games and surrendering 47 points in an AFC Wild Card Round loss to the Buffalo Bills, who scored a touchdown on all seven of their drives.
New England made some offseason changes on defense, acquiring the speedy Mack Wilson to replace aging linebackers Don'ta Hightower and Jamie Collins while drafting Marcus Jones and Jack Jones to infuse the cornerback group with youth and athleticism.