Skip to main content

GreaterUpperValley.com

Super Bowl Predictions: Are the Patriots Poised to Make Another Run?

Sep 04, 2012 02:31PM ● By Erin Frisch

Super Bowl Predictions: Are the Patriots Poised to Make Another Run?

With a redesigned offense and an upgraded defense, the Patriots look like a strong Super Bowl contender entering the 2012 season.  At 13 and 3, the Patriots had the best record in the AFC last year but came up just short in Super Bowl XLVI against the New York Giants. Nevertheless, as the Patriots look ahead to the 2012 season, they have to feel optimistic playing in a weak AFC East division and with a favorable non-division schedule.

The Patriots have shown great improvement since 2010 with a maturing defense. Rookies linebacker Dont’a Hightower and defensive right end Chandler Jones have proven to be great players and ideal for the defensive team. Jones has dominated during the preseason and has been excellent throughout training camp; Hightower is a highly athletic and versatile newcomer as well. With these two players, the Patriots’ defensive team has improved greatly and promises to be one to watch.

Tight ends Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski are entering their third season with the Patriots and have built reputations as two of the best offensive players on the field today. Hernandez has made improvements in his passing and running game, protection, and versatility—not that he needed to make much of a change. He managed to average 11.5 yards per reception with seven touchdowns last year. All-Pro Gronkowski signed a six-year contract with the Patriots for $53 million, the most any tight end has ever received in the game. Not only do the Patriots have youthful rookies that show promise for a bright future with the team, they have veteran players who continue to go unmatched, making their team complete.

There can’t be enough said about quarterback Tom Brady. He’s been instrumental in taking the team to multiple Super Bowls, winning 3 in 5 appearances, and he’s looking to add a fourth. Brady, who turns 34 this year, is still going strong as one of the best quarterbacks in the history of the sport.

As for Super Bowl predictions, are the Patriots poised to make another run? The answer is definitely yes. If veterans and rookies alike play their best and stay healthy, the Patriots will be Super Bowl–bound again this year. As the youthful players on this team continue to mature and become even better, they will help increase the team’s chances as well, making them almost impossible to beat.

What are your predictions this 2012-2013 NFL season? Do you think the Patriots will go all the way?

Like what you're reading? Subscribe to Image's free newsletter to catch every headline