The Patriots Research Paper

The Power Ten-

1. New England Patriots: 9-0 (1)

Despite injuries to their offensive line, Dion Lewis, and Julian Edelman, the Patriots remain at number one in the power rankings.

Bottom line is this: The Patriots find ways to win games. They were depleted offense so much on Sunday, that Michael Williams, the team’s third tight end, who lined up on the offensive line the previous week, was lined up on the outside as the Z receiver, and they still managed to win the game.

One of the best attributes the Patriots have had throughout the Bill Belichick era has been their ability to overcome adversity. The loss of Julian Edelman is huge, but there isn’t a doubt in my mind, that this team will overcome it, and will not miss a beat on offense.

2.

On Sunday, they went into Oakland and held that high-powered offense to 14 points. The previous week, they held Todd Gurley to 3.7 yards per carry. This defense combined with the run first offense is bad news for all of their opponents.

At 7-2, the Vikings have won five in a row, and sit alone atop the NFC North. Next week they have a huge game against the second place Green Bay Packers.

6. Pittsburgh Steelers: 6-4 (9)

One thing I am certain about is the Steelers will win one of the wild cards in the AFC. If it weren’t for an abundance of injuries, the Steelers would, in my opinion, be a top three team in the entire league.

Ben Roethlisberger wasn’t even supposed to play this week, and, despite playing on basically one foot, he threw for 379 yards and three touchdowns. His favorite target, Antonio Brown is clearly the best wide receiver in the NFL. He can do almost everything.

The Steelers head into the bye at 6-4 and are in the driver’s seat of the 5th seed in the AFC.

7. Green Bay Packers: 6-3 (5)

After a 6-0 start the Packers have lost three straight games. I’ve been saying it for a few weeks now, and it continued on Sunday; the offense is struggling and I don’t see it getting any better in the next few