The New England Patriots might have foolishly parted ways with future Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady, but that doesn’t mean the Pats are done being perennial winners right? Following free agency and the recently completed 2020 NFL draft, it’s time to take a look at what could lie ahead for New England as we inch closer to the start of the 2020 NFL regular season.
New England Patriots SB Odds & Analysis After Draft For 2020
Offense
The Patriots went 12-4 in 2019 to win the AFC East for the gazillionth time during the Tom Brady Bill Belichick era. The Pats also went a solid 8-7-1 ATS even though they struggled mightily on the offensive side of the ball in finishing 15th overall, eighth in passing, 18th in rushing and seventh in scoring (26.3 ppg). To make matters worse, Belichick didn’t show Brady the love – or give him the money he wanted – and now, New England’s once legendary quarterback is plying his trade in sunny Tampa Bay. Now, heading into the 2020 regular season, The Pats plan on starting the mostly untested Jarrett Stidham with veteran Brian Hoyer the designated backup.
To address their needs on offense, The New England Patriots put the franchise tag on veteran guard Joe Thuney while signing wide receivers Matthew Slater and Damiere Byrd. After trading out of the first round, the Patriots drafted their first offensive player in Alabama tackle Anfernee Jennings, UCLA tight end Devin Asiasi and Virginia Teach tight end Dalton Keene, all in the third round.
Defense
While the Patriots struggled with inconsistency on offense in 2019, they were rock solid on defense in finishing first in total defense, second against the pass, sixth against the run and first in points allowed (14.1 ppg). To improve their defense, New England re-signed Pro Bowl safety Devin McCourty while adding defensive tackle Beau Allen, safeties Adrian Phillips and Cody Davis in free agency, among others. Belichick also drafted D-II safety Kyle Dugger and Michigan defensive end Josh Uche, both, in the second round.
Overall Analysis
Well, the once, timeless debate about whether Brady or Belichick was more responsible for New England’s success the last two decades is about to get answered – and it’s not going to be pretty for the Patriots or Belichick if you ask me. The Patriots really struggled to pass the ball last season and I can’t believe their passing attack will be any better in 2020 with Jarrett Stidham and Brian Hoyer under center.
Sure, it’s quite possible New England remains outstanding defensively, but then again, maybe they won’t be as good on that side of the ball if the offense can’t move efficiently and they give up too many short fields to their opponents. Basically, if you’ve hated the Patriots the last two decades and you love watching them lose, then you’re probably going to enjoy the upcoming 2020 regular season.
