The New England Patriots ran roughshod over the AFC East for almost two decades. Now the only thing they’re in the running for is a top-15 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Life without Tom Brady has not gone well for New England. Cam Newton has had a few moments as a passer such as his performances against the Seahawks, Jets and Texans, but the quarterback only has five passing touchdowns, good for 34th in the league, on the year. Due to their passing struggles, the Patriots’ offense has been pretty one-dimensional for most of the year. It’s a big reason why the team is 6-8 and out of playoff contention for the first time since 2008.
The Buffalo Bills, meanwhile, clinched the AFC East for the first time since 1995 and clinched a playoff berth for the third time in four years following a 48-19 blowout win over the Denver Broncos. Buffalo’s offense, defense and special teams units are all playing well as the playoffs approach. At 11-3, the Bills are currently as the AFC’s No. 2 seed.
The changing of the guard has taken place and it has never been more apparent than in ESPN’s promo for Monday Night Football. When previewing the matchup between Buffalo and New England, multiple highlight clips are shown of the Bills, but the Patriots are no where to be found.
Take a look for yourself.
Buffalo is familiar with this type of treatment from their playoff drought days, but it’s a new day in the AFC East. Realistically, this may be the new reality for the Patriots for the foreseeable future until they find a long-term answer at quarterback. Both Buffalo and Miami seem well positioned to be near the top of the division for the foreseeable future.
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