2007 NFL Season Review: AFC East

New England Patriots-

Perfection became imperfection in a matter of seconds when New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning found a wide-open Plaxico Burress in the end zone for the game-winning touchdown pass in Super Bowl XLII. The prodigious New England Patriots, who appeared unassailable throughout the season, finally looked mortal. Bill Belichick appeared depleted following the demoralizing loss.

The Super Bowl loss notwithstanding, the 2007 New England Patriots were among the best ever in NFL history. They are debatably as the best team never to win the Super Bowl, all apologies to the 1998 Minnesota Vikings.

The Patriots set astonishing records in 2007. They scored a record 589 points throughout the season and quarterback Tom Brady threw a record-breaking 50 touchdown passes in 2007. Additionally, Randy Moss caught a record 23 touchdown passes. If Moss was unavailable for a big play, Tom Brady often relied on Wes Welker and Kevin Faulk on shorter passes designed to turn in to big plays.

Their running game led by Lawrence Maroney was far from the greatest in the NFL; however, they produced when they had to, such as the AFC Championship Game versus the San Diego Chargers.

The defense was respectable, but not great. Early in the season, they appeared better than they actually were basically because the offense built up such a huge lead, opposing offenses were desperate to make plays and often shot themselves in the foot, see the Buffalo Bills.

The Patriots may never enjoy a 16-0 season again, but they are still an NFL powerhouse. However, they must keep Randy Moss and Asante Samuel on their roster.

Unfortunately, the Spygate allegations that resurfaced hours before the Super Bowl marred a near-flawless season. Many project that coach Bill Belichick may not return in 2008 if the accusations regarding the videotaping of the St. Louis Rams walkthrough practice in 2002 are true.

Regular Season- 16-0

Playoffs- 2-1

Loss to the New York Giants 17-14 in the Super Bowl.

New England Patriots Team History

Buffalo Bills