New England Patriots schedule 2020: Picks, predictions for every game

Week 12: vs. Cardinals

After adding DeAndre Hopkins this offseason, the Cardinals could be one of the most fun offensive teams in the league. However, their defense remains a bit suspect and Belichick will flex his defensive mind at home to slow down Kyler Murray and Arizona in this late-season matchup. Prediction: Win

Week 13: at Chargers

By my estimation, Tyrod Taylor is the only thing holding this Chargers roster back from being a potential Super Bowl sleeper. Justin Herbert at this point in his development isn’t much of an upgrade either. Even still, the totality of the roster is good enough to topple the Patriots in Los Angeles. Prediction: Loss

Week 14: at Rams

The Patriots stay in Los Angeles for another road game late in the season, this time against a perplexing Rams team. This is another instance where New England’s defensive talent and Belichick’s acumen will shine. Prediction: Win

Week 15: at Dolphins

Even with their recent struggles, the Dolphins have given the Patriots fits. While I’m skeptical about Miami winning in Week 1, they’ll take care of business in Miami as the Fins build optimism for the 2021 season in a big way. Prediction: Loss

Week 16: vs. Bills

While you might think that the Patriots would split home-and-home wins with the Bills, Buffalo is just too superior of a team by my estimation. The defense will again cause Stidham fits and push the Bills (likely) to the AFC East title. Prediction: Loss

Week 17: vs. Jets

Are the Patriots going to lose their final three games on the 2020 schedule? While Darnold and the Jets got the better of New England in the Big Apple, that won’t be the case in New England. Belichick ends the season on a relative high note — even if it won’t totally feel like it. Prediction: Win

Final Record Prediction: 6-10