The outside noise was real entering Week 1.
The New England Patriots not only entered their game against the Bengals as a 7.5-point road underdog (they opened a 9.5-point underdog), but Cincinnati was the most popular pick in survivor pools. And NFL analysts never imagined the Joe Burrow-led offense would get handcuffed and out-snapped like it did.
A handful of Patriots players spoke out about the noise surrounding the team while others opted to pass on it. Jerod Mayo and Jacoby Brissett didn't exactly have a 'told-you-so' reaction after the 16-10 victory at Paycor Stadium.
The Patriots social media team, however, took a well-deserved victory lap.
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New England's social team identified 10 analysts who picked Cincinnati in the contest, all of whom took the Bengals to win by two or more possessions and cover the spread. Those 10 surely weren't alone either.
The Patriots will hold their home opener against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. Oddsmakers opened the visiting Seahawks as a 3-point road favorite.
Featured image via Joseph Maiorana/Imagn Images
