I just still don't know what to make of them. They're probably a lot better than we've been giving them credit for but we also don't want to get our hopes up after beating Baltimore in a monsoon.
Honestly, without Covid, they beat Denver and don't make such asses of themselves against SF (I don't think they beat them, but they don't get blown out). No question. They were also one play away from winning in Seattle and Buffalo, and were in the KC game until the 4th despite Brian Hoyer. On the other hand, they were a play away from losing to the Jets.
The real Patriots are probably somewhere in the middle. I think if they all stay healthy in the right areas and execute well they can make noise and get into the playoffs. But I wouldn't throw money on them to make a AFCCG run or anything either. That said, there are no invincible teams in the AFC this year and nobody is running away with it. How is Pittsburgh undefeated? I respect their defense greatly, but really? They're not a typical 9-0 team. Everyone is vulnerable this year, and if there's an expanded playoffs it's going to be fun to watch some upsets.