In a word, yikes. For weeks, the AFC East was making an argument to be recognized as the best division in the NFL. On Sunday, they looked to be far from it. Really, really far. If you are the type to rewatch games after the week is over, then please be aware that viewer discretion is advised.
Bills tested, but finally wake up
For a while there, we had reason to be concerned. However, it took some time for the Bills’ offense to wake up from the nightmare run they were having. Whether it was two bad consecutive losses or a monstrous snowstorm that left Buffalo buried, the Bills were bound to come out slow. Yet after facing a scare from the Browns’ offense that was moving the ball well, the sleeping giant finally came alive once again. Early in the game we had images of a coach helping Stefon Diggs cope with a brutal start, but then quickly gave way to a celebratory tone in the Motor City, which will be home for another week. The Bills aren’t perfect, but when they come alive, they sure are scary. It’s not enough to crown them Super Bowl champs, especially because of those guys in Kansas City, yet maybe Sunday signaled a flip of the switch. Von Miller said he hoped that the snow would bring the team together, much like a three game losing streak did for the Rams last season. We’ll see if that comes to fruition, but it’s off to a good start.
The Patriots defense deserves better
With a record of 6-4, the Patriots are beginning to hit their stride, finding a way like they always do. They’ve overcome bad quarterback play, injuries, and just about anything you throw their way. Why? Bill Belichick’s defense continuously gives New England hope. Much like their opponents on Sunday, it was the defense that deserved better. It’s not everyday that you hold the opposing quarterback to 77 passing yards, but nearly lose. The offense managed three points in a game where one touchdown is all it took to win. Almost every time Mac Jones and the Patriots crossed midfield, they immediately started moving backwards. If they can’t sneak into the playoffs, that will be the reason. A suffocating Patriots’ defense can only do so much. Just don’t let the Jets’ quarterback be the reason Jones gets a pass for his poor play because Belichick’s team simply has the better of two bad QB’s.
The Jets.
Where do we start? Genuinely. Where do we start? In reality, this Jets team deserves their own article of analysis for that dreadful performance. The signs were there the whole time, but it might be time for the “I’ve seen enough” guy on elections Twitter to make a cameo now. Barring a total shocking and complete turnaround, the Jets once again have no quarterback. Zach Wilson is bad. Very bad. Almost historically bad. What he did on Sunday in Foxboro is unheard of for a supposed professional quarterback. 77 passing yards. Three points. They wasted yet another incredible defensive performance. They appear to be on the verge of disaster. That’s where we were a few weeks ago against this same Patriots’ team, but this is somehow worse. How they respond this week will be the most critical and important moment in years for the Jets. It’s something they can’t afford to mess up.