I just built this site, so this preview is a bit late, as week 1 took place today. However, the first games can be fluky, so here’s your guide to the rest of the season for the AFC East division. 

These projections and the rest of my standings include the record, key matchups, and my opinion for who can single-handedly change their team’s outcome.

1. New England Patriots

Record: 12-4

Key matchups: @ Jaguars week 2, vs Packers week 9, vs Vikings week 13, @ Steelers week 15

X-Factor: Julian Edelman – If Edelman comes back and plays like he did in 2016, when the Pats won Super Bowl LI, their whole offense will be elevated.

 

2. New York Jets

Record: 7-9

Key matchups: vs Broncos week 5, @ Titans week 13, vs Texans week 15

X-Factor: Jamal Adams – Adams is easily my favorite candidate to be the best defensive player of last year’s draft. He has the physical tools and the ball skills needed of a star defensive back.

 

3. Miami Dolphins

Record: 7-9

Key matchups: vs Bears week 6, @ Lions week 7, @ Packers week 9

X-Factor: Kenyan Drake – The Alabama product put up prolific numbers in a very short time last year. The question is, can he keep up the production?

 

4. Buffalo Bills

Record: 3-13

Key matchups: vs Titans week 5, @ Colts week 7

X-Factor: Josh Allen – If Allen throws accurately and shows off his brilliant arm strength, this projection will look silly. However, there’s a substantial chance that won’t happen.

I will release my projections for the AFC North shortly, and I’ll keep going from there. Stay Tuned.

-Sam