The Patriots

New England Patriots (9-3)

The New England Patriots are coming off a loss to the Green Bay Packers last week. As good as the Patriots played at Lambeau Field, Aaron Rodgers was just too much to handle. With that loss, the Patriots dropped to 9-3.

The Patriots lead the AFC East over the 7-5 Miami Dolphins, but they have their eyes set on grabbing the No. 1 seed in the AFC. The Broncos are also 9-3, but the Patriots hold the tie-breaker because they defeated the Broncos in Week 9. Bill Belichick and the Patriots know this is a must-win game if they want home field advantage in January.he Patriots offense ranks third overall in points scored and sixth in yards gained. Quarterback Tom Brady has thrown 28 touchdowns to six interceptions with a 101.1 passer rating. Tight end Robert Gronkowski has been excellent this year with a team-leading 910 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. Julian Edelman continues to provide short yardage gains, while Brandon LaFell is emerging as a reliable deep threat.

As for the defense, that's a different story. The Patriots defense has shown improvements, but there are still holes to fill. Despite adding Brandon browner and Darrelle Revis, the Patriots pass defense ranks 23rd overall in yards allowed. They will be in for a tough task against the Chargers passing attack. The biggest issue for the Patriots has been getting pressure on the opposing quarterback.

Jerod Mayo is out for the year, and Chandler Jones is questionable for this game with a hip injury.