The 2025 Patriots had the NFL’s lowest strength of schedule (.391), but multiple players scoffed at the notion that they’d played a soft slate. Stefon Diggs was the latest following New England’s 38-10 beatdown of the Dolphins, and Drake Maye was also dismissive when asked about it last week.

The New England Patriots won the AFC East in 2025. We already know their 2026 opponents and what it means for their playoff chances next year.

The Patriots had a historically easy schedule this season. And though much can change between now and next September, at first glance, New England could be in for a far tougher road in 2026. With Week 18 in the books,

Following their blowout win over the Miami Dolphins, the Patriots locked into the AFC’s No. 2 seed and will take on the Los Angeles Chargers on primetime in the wild-card round. The NFL announced that the Patriots and Chargers will occupy the 8 p.m. slot on Sunday, Jan. 11. Their game will air on NBC and Peacock.

Learn which TV channel or how to live stream the NFL Week 18 New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins game, Sunday, Jan. 4.

The New England Patriots and the Miami Dolphins face off in Week 18 of the NFL season today. Here's where to watch and start time.

The New England Patriots may or may not end up on the road during the NFL playoffs. Should they be forced to travel, the players have to eat. It is an