At last there appears to be cracks in New England’s dynasty. Certainly ego, arrogance and hubris played a part in last February’s Super Bowl loss. Philadelphia shredded the Patriots defense as a decided NFL betting underdog. Encompassing New England’s failure was the benching of cornerback Malcolm Butler. Indeed, coach Bill Belichick was roundly criticized for the decision. Included among the dissidents was quarterback Tom Brady. Additionally, Brady whined about not being fully appreciated. Equally important are reports of splits developing between Brady, Belichick and owner Bob Kraft. Nonetheless New England is a top tier Super Bowl futures favorite.
2018 New England Patriots Futures
Date and Time: Season opens September 9, 2018
Location: Check schedules
NFL Betting Online Odds: Click Here!
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Longtime Favorites
As a result of their dynastic reputation the Patriots are consistent NFL betting favorites. However, questions are mounting about the merits of New England’s chalk status for 2018. At the onset of winter several free agents were kicked to the curb. Secondly Brady and star tight end Rob Gronkowski blew off voluntary workouts. Equally important have been recent personnel failures by Belichick. In particular former Patriot Chandler Jones led the NFL in sacks last year. Also, there have been a series of draft busts picked by Belichick. Commencing with the defense’s collapse in the Super Bowl is a sense of decline.
Gamble of the Rookies
Definitely the departure of Brady’s left tackle Nate Solder has to hurt. Nor does the departure of leading rusher Dion Lewis make anyone happy. Equally important were the exits of Brandin Cooks and Danny Amendola. The duo were Brady’s top two receivers last year. In turn Belichick seems to be ready to gamble on numerous rookies. However, nothing can compare to Solder moving on. Who will now protect Brady’s blind side is a big worry.
Clear Path to the End
Due to a weak AFC East the Patriots have a clear path to the playoffs. Balanced against that is an AFC with other quality candidates. Starting with Jacksonville the AFC has bona fide threats. Despite the fact the Jaguars let New England off the hook in the AFC title game most believe they were better. As a matter of fact, the Patriots were outplayed. Consequently, they needed a late rally to escape with the sportsbook win. Owing to the near upset Jacksonville is now an AFC chalk.
Fraud Defense
New England’s defense was exposed as a fraud in the Super Bowl. To be exact Philadelphia moved the ball at will on the Pats. The outcome was no fluke. Moreover, the Patriots ranked 29th in the NFL for total yards allowed last year. Of major concern was New England’s lack of defensive speed and athleticism. More emphatically were frustrations with mental errors. Hence, assertions of poor coaching were entirely fair.
Matchup to Watch
Certainly, New England catches a big break playing in the AFC East. Though this may be an NFL betting advantage its not a road to Super Sunday. Following this offseason of upheaval are a lot of questions. Owing to all of that are increased doubts about New England’s true contender status.
New England Patriots 2018 Futures Betting Odds Pick
To summarize the Super Bowl exposed Belichick’s failures in recent years. As has been noted he has botched key personnel moves. In conclusion the Patriots are above average but in decline. Thus, a playoff season can be expected. However, a Super Bowl cannot.
NFL Betting Online Pick: New England to win the AFC East
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