New England Patriots
The New England Patriots are also suffering from back-to-back losses against the Kansas City Chiefs and the Denver Broncos. Sitting third in the surprising AFC East, the Patriots cannot afford a letdown in their Week 7 matchup against the San Franciso 49ers.
With Cam Newton returning after his one-game absence, the Pats’ offense could not get anything going. A loss here and the Pats could find themselves in a world of trouble with the Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, and Arizona Cardinals all coming up.
What’s also noteworthy is that the Pats are not just playing their opponents but the ghost of Tom Brady as well.
As good as Bill Belichick is, he has to prove that he can win without Brady. And, as for Newton, all eyes are on him as his future as a starter is hanging in the balance. The Patriots losing to the 49ers, despite the 49ers crushing the Rams last weekend would be a huge blow to them as they enter a tough stretch in their schedule.