This could be a big week if the Patriots want to move up in the NFL Draft order. While New England is on a bye, all three teams currently picking ahead of them have potentially winnable games.
New England is currently picking fourth, but the higher they get offers an opportunity to :
A. Get whoever they want
or
B. Trade down to somebody eager to select a quarterback.
So there are reasons to watch this week even though the Patriots are idle.
As always, strength-of-schedule info is from Tankathon.
- BETTING: Check out our MA sports betting guide, where you can learn basic terminology, definitions and how to read odds for those interested in learning how to bet in Massachusetts.
Sunday
Saints (4-8) at Giants (2-10) This will either be a good result for the Patriots or a great one. A Giants win moves the Patriots up a draft spot. But even a Saints win, would almost guarantee that New England would draft ahead of New Orleans. — Root for: Giants.
Browns (3-9) at Steelers (9-3) Patriots are already ahead of the Browns in the draft order, but it’s by SOS percentage points. A Cleveland win adds a little breathing room. — Root for: Browns
Raiders (2-10) at Buccaneers (6-6) This is an easy one. A Vegas win would move the Patriots up in the draft order. — Root for: Raiders
Panthers (3-9) at Eagles (10-2) Long shot obviously, but — Root for: Panthers.
Jaguars (2-10) at Titans (3-9) This is another good result vs. great result situation for New England. A Jags win is outstanding, but a Titans win gives the Pats some breathing room too. — Root for: Jaguars and Mac Jones.
Jets (3-9) at Dolphins (5-7) A New York win would give the Patriots a little extra cushion — Root for: Jets. If it makes it easier, think of it as rooting against the Dolphins.
Seahawks (7-5) at Cardinals (6-6) Patriots will have played both of these teams. So the combined record of Patriots opponents is getting a win and a loss on Sunday. — Root for: Doesn’t really matter.
Bills (10-2) at Rams (6-6) This is a strength of schedule game. Since the Patriots play the Bills twice, giving them a loss is helpful. — Root for: Rams
Bears (4-8) at 49ers (5-7) Another SOS game. Root against the team the Patriots played. — Root for: 49ers
Chargers (8-4) at Chiefs (11-1) Same as above. — Root for: Chiefs
Monday
Bengals (4-8) at Cowboys (5-7) Root against the team the Patriots played. — Root for: Cowboys
