NFL fans everywhere have rejoiced at the recent fall off of the New England Patriots. After a dynasty spanning over 2 decades, the team is entering a new era post-Belichick. For the first time since 2000, the Pats will go into the season with a new head coach. The 2023-2024 season doesn’t offer a whole lot of optimism for Patriots fans, but hopefully the big changes made will offer some flashes of excitement. After selecting Drake Maye 3rd overall in the draft, the QB of their future may be here. Even if their aren’t many expectations for the team this season, there are still some fun opportunities for Massachusetts sports bettors this season that we’ve highlighted. 

Additions and Subtractions

Key Additions: Jerod Mayo (Head Coach), Jacoby Brissett (QB, Commanders), Drake Maye (QB, North Carolina), Ja’Lynn Polk (WR, Washington)
Key Departures: Bill Belichick (Head Coach), Mac Jones (QB), JuJu Smith-Schuster (WR), Matthew Judon (DL)

2024 Season Predictions

Record Prediction: The New England Patriots have an uphill battle ahead of them, as an already struggling team will be dealing with the 2nd hardest strength of schedule in the league. Their win total is currently set at 4.5 at most sportsbooks. This is a really good line, as I see the Patriots winning either 4 or 5 games. My prediction is 4-13, hitting the under and setting themselves up for another high draft pick next season.

Award Watchlist: The Patriots don’t have any real contenders for individual awards this season, but there are some longshots I like. Drake Maye has amazing value for the OROY award at +3500 odds. This is unheard of for the 3rd overall pick. Of course, it’s due to Brissett entering the season as the starter, but after a few losses there will be a ton of pressure for the Pats to start the rookie. Cornerback Christian Gonzalez showed a ton of promise in his rookie season before suffering a season-ending injury. If he plays a full season at the level he showed he’s capable of, the Comeback Player of the Year award could be a possibility at +8000 odds. Lastly, if the team somehow doubles their projected win total for a 9-8 season, Jerod Mayo will be up for Coach of the Year with +2800 odds.

Outlook

This season is likely to be another disappointing one for the New England Patriots. Jacoby Brissett has shown he can win game. But, he’s not the type of quarterback who can carry a subpar roster like the Patriots currently have. While they won’t be competing for the division or a playoff spot, there are still things for fans to watch. It will be interesting to see how the Pats manage their talented rookie quarterback in terms of playing time. A positive outcome for the season would be seeing growth and potential from Drake Maye and other young players like Ja’Lynn Polk building momentum for the ongoing rebuild. In terms of wins, even a 6- or 7-win season would be a pleasant surprise. It will be an indication that the new coach is steering the team in the right direction. The Patriots will likely have another top-3 pick in next year’s draft and will need a few more seasons before they’re back in the race for the AFC East.

Author: Jake Koehler

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