"Looking at the Patriots' 2025 schedule, it was easy to see why it was deemed one of the easiest in the NFL, therefore becoming the basis for some analysts and fans' belief that a playoff push wasn't out of the question. However, based on what we've seen from them so far, those hopes are likely dashed, and there are more concerns surrounding the roster than a potential postseason run."
"There have been significant upgrades to the team since Mike Vrabel became the head coach earlier this season, which has prompted a lot of optimism around certain groups, especially special teams, as the new head coach chose to retain coordinator Jeremy Springer. He impressed during his first season in 2024, opening the door for him to remain on the staff despite Jerod Mayo's departure. However, the third unit hasn't performed up to the standard that Bill Belichick had long set over the last two decades."
"Going into Sunday's matchup, the Panthers are strong in a crucial aspect of special teams, and that's pinning their opponent deep in their own territory during kickoffs. The Patriots haven't been great about getting out of that through three games, so that will surely be something to watch; hopefully, they can overcome it, as it will be inevitable."
The Patriots entered 2025 with an easy schedule that raised outside expectations for a playoff push, but early-season performance has diminished those hopes. Mike Vrabel became head coach earlier this season and retained special teams coordinator Jeremy Springer after Springer impressed in 2024. Despite that continuity and other upgrades, the special teams unit has not matched the high standards set during Bill Belichick's tenure. The Panthers excel at pinning opponents deep on kickoffs, and New England ranks near the bottom in starting field position. Coaches have emphasized special teams in practice for Week 4, yet broader roster issues make a postseason run unlikely at this point.
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