The New England Patriots are sitting pretty in the AFC East after winning their last four games. If they want to get back to the Super Bowl, though, their journey has just begun.
Over the next several weeks, the Patriots will face a series of tests against the best the NFL has to offer. First up this Sunday are the Denver Broncos, who own the NFL’s best offense and a league-best 7-1 record. After a bye week, it’s on to the Indianapolis Colts, who rattled off five consecutive wins before falling to the Pittsburgh Steelers last Sunday.
If the Patriots can survive the gauntlet and capture their 14th divisional crown in 16 years, they’ll have to get past some stiff competition in the playoffs. The Broncos and Baltimore Ravens stopped New England at the 2013 and 2012 AFC Championship Games, respectively. The Steelers have split their last four games with the Patriots dating back to 2008, so if they could be a force to be reckoned with if they earn a postseason berth.
All three teams — the Broncos, Ravens and Steelers — have engaged in some classic battles with New England over the years. Who do you see as the Patriots’ biggest rival? Vote now in the poll below.
Photo via Winslow Townson/USA TODAY Sports Images
