OBF’s second-half outlook for Patriots
Matthew J. Lee/The Boston Globe
Where are they going? Despite all their inconsistencies, Patriots should win the AFC East by default. The schedule seems laid out for an 11-5 or—at worst—10-6 finish. The loss in Baltimore could cost them a first-round bye, as they have to make up two games on the Ravens. Watch out for Andrew Luck (who threw for 433 yards Sunday) and the Colts on Nov. 18. The health of Rob Gronkowski—who has elevated his spiking if not TD production to record levels—and Aaron Hernandez will determine if Patriots have enough firepower to outgun any playoff potential opponent eager to shred their secondary. As far as a potential Super Bowl, never count out Brady and Belichick against anyone—except maybe the Giants.
