Almost every NFL season of this century has started with the strong possibility of the New England Patriots reaching the Super Bowl. Many of them have ended that way.
New England has produced a dynasty unlike any other franchise in any sport in this century, with coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady teaming for seven conference titles. The Patriots expect to reach this stage every season, and they’ve done so again with the NFL’s No. 1-ranked offense and a defense that allows a lot of yards but not many points.
The Patriots went 13-3 to win another AFC East and earn the AFC’s No.