New England Patriots: 5 toughest defensive opponents in 2017

The New England Patriots will surely have a high powered offense in 2017, but these five teams could give them fits when they square up.

Right off the bat, the New England Patriots offense is going to be tested when they face Kansas City on Thursday, but there’s one even tougher defense that they’ll face this year.

New England is expected to average 30 points per game or more this season with the number of weapons they have. That’s not always going to be easy. The Patriots don’t have an extremely tough schedule, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t facing any tough defenses. Here, I’ll take a look at the 5 toughest defenses Tom Brady and company will have to face in 2017. They’re placed in order of appearance, not based on which defense is toughest.

They’re placed in order of appearance, not based on which defense is toughest.

Week 1: Kansas City Chiefs

Right away Tom Brady and the offensive line will be tested. The Kansas City Chiefs have the ability to pressure Brady, and that usually gives the Patriots problems. While the Chiefs may not be able to matchup with Rob Gronkowski, Brandin Cooks, and all of New England’s backs, but they can disrupt the offense.

Justin Houston is a force to be reckoned with,  and the offensive line will surely have their hands full. Derrick Johnson is one of the best linebackers in the league according to Brady as well.

"“Derrick Johnson is one of the best linebackers in the league. He does so many things for that defense. You can tell it really hurts them when he’s not out there. And Eric Berry is a big time playmaker. Marcus Peters — more interceptions than anybody since he came in the league. (Justin) Houston and (Dee) Ford, I mean, they strip sack the quarterback. So, they’re very explosive and really force the ball out of your hands quick because they get a good rush.”"

If the pressure gets to Brady, the Chiefs have a chance to stay in the game. Marcus Peters could also have a huge game, but it will be interesting to see who he lines up against most often.