Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you sign up through BetMGM. 21+ only. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
The New England Patriots have emerged as legitimate AFC contenders under first-year head coach Mike Vrabel. The organization sits at 9-2, tied atop the conference with the Denver Broncos and positioning itself for postseason football for the first time since 2021.
Vrabel’s defensive philosophy and his management of quarterback Drake Maye’s progression have drawn widespread praise throughout the league. ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit recently weighed in on the Patriots’ trajectory during a segment on The Pat McAfee Show. His assessment suggested New England could sustain its current level of excellence through the remainder of the regular season.
“There’s a real shot that the New England Patriots are looking at 13 or 14 wins. They’re probably gonna be the 1 seed in the AFC,” Herbstreit said.
“There’s a real shot that the New England Patriots are looking at 13 or 14 wins..
They’re probably gonna be the 1 seed in the AFC”@KirkHerbstreit #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/uJlwMttV4D
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) November 20, 2025
The Patriots hold several advantages as they navigate the final stretch of the season. Vrabel has trusted offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels to operate the offense without interference, allowing for cohesive scheme execution.
New England currently leads the AFC East, a division it has not won since 2018. Entering Week 12, the Patriots face a favorable remaining schedule.
The Colts were on bye in Week 11, while Denver’s bye arrives in Week 12, giving New England a scheduling edge. Only two of the Patriots’ remaining opponents currently possess winning records, presenting clear opportunities to build on their strong start.
Indianapolis faces a considerably tougher path forward. The Colts must navigate matchups against the Kansas City Chiefs, Seattle Seahawks, and San Francisco 49ers, limiting their margin for error down the stretch.
The Patriots’ last championship came following the 2018 season. That seven-year gap makes this moment particularly significant for a franchise seeking to return to championship contention under new leadership.
