With the 2025 NFL draft in the past, it's time to move on and look at what's to come in the regular season. Things will be different for the New England Patriots under new head coach Mike Vrabel and a revamped defense. Old friend Josh McDaniels is also back as offensive coordinator to help set up second-year quarterback (QB) Drake Maye for success in the 2025 NFL season.
Looking ahead to the Patriots' schedule this season, play the AFC East teams twice, the AFC South, the NFC South, along with the Tennessee Titans, the Las Vegas Raiders, and the New York Giants. While the Pats still have a way to go before I'd call them playoff contenders, this schedule isn't easy for them. While the schedule is challenging, I did find one matchup that should be more than favorable to them.
Patriots Should Be Able to Blow Out At Least 1 NFC Opponent
The New Orleans Saints have fallen quickly since the retirement of Drew Brees in March of 2021. In the four seasons since his retirement, the Saints hovered around playing .500 ball, before going 5-12 this most recent season. For this upcoming season, with a tough division and an aging, expensive roster, I don't think things will be much better.
When the Patriots travel to New Orleans to play, I don't expect it to be close. While still not perfect, the Patriots' offense will be better equipped this year and should consistently put up points. As for the defense, with the additions made, they should trouble the Saints' offense and help set up the offense by giving them easy field position.
While I do expect this game to be a blowout, I do think the Saints will put up a fight in front of the home crowd. Ultimately, I think the Pats win this game 31-7. The time and day of this game have yet to be officially released.