Jan 11, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback
Tom Brady(12) walks off the field after defeating the Indianapolis Colts 43-22 to win the 2013 AFC divisional playoff football game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
Both fans and especially Patriots players are really excited for the playoffs to finally begin, and the Patriots to make another run towards a Super Bowl. While the Patriots, during the Tom Brady era, may be the longest and best dynasty to ever exist in the NFL, it has been ten years since they have won their last Super Bowl win. They definitely have had their opportunities, but at the end they always fell short of the grand prize. Once again the Patriots are in a familiar position being the Nr.1 seed and having a bye week.
1. History of divisional round
Looking back at all the times the Patriots received a first-round bye during the Brady era, the Pats are 7-1 in the divisional round after their bye. The only time they lost their first game after the bye, was when they lost to the Jets, when Bill O’Brien refused to pass the ball until the last ten minutes. So historically the Pats should have confidence heading into this game, even though they have struggled against Baltimore at home. They have also scored 40+ points in their last three games after a first round bye.
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