The Patriots continue to shift the narrative from “cute story” to “legitimate contender” and the rankings reflect the ambivalence. While the majority of NFL writers have bought in to Drake Maye and Mike Vrabel as the real deal, they’re not quite sold on the rest of the roster. Others still credit the team’s ‘soft schedule’ for the wins.

New England was so bad the last few years it’s understandable that the experts want to poke a bit at the strength of the resurgence. How solid really, is that 8-2 record? The Patriots have won seven in a row with two of those wins against the Bills — who are still favored above the Pats, despite the fact that Buffalo sits behind them in the standings — and the Buccaneers, leaders of the NFC South. No gimme-games there.

Up next the New York Jets come to Fo

See Full Page