Sunday, December 18th the New England Patriots clinch division for the eighth time in a row. In view of their win, they are the only team in the NFL with this record.
Patriots Clinch Division
With the Patriots winning against the Broncos with a score of 16-3, they clinched the AFC East. In addition, a win in the last two games of the season would have them as the number 1 seed in the conference. In the same token, this was owner, Robert Kraft’s 18th time in his 23 years of ownership to clinch a playoff spot.
Playoff Picture Since 1994
Since 1994, the Patriots have been in the playoffs 18 times. Furthermore, the New England Patriots have been Division Champions 16 times since 1994. Now the Patriots are all set to be in the playoffs for the 8th year in a row.
In addition, the Patriots have a bye for the first round for the 7th straight season. Also, they have had the most byes since 2001.
Patriots 2016 Season
Through the first 15 weeks of the season, the Patriots have only had two interceptions. Prior to this season, the Dallas Cowboys held the record in 1993 of throwing three interceptions in 15 games. Also the Patriots are nearing a record of the least amount of interceptions in a season. Due to the merger in 1970, the record is five for the least amount of interceptions in the NFL.
Bill Belichick has lead the Patriots the AFC East title 14 times. Also Belichick extends his record to 8 straight division titles. Furthermore, Belichick has 199 wins in the regular season with the Patriots. One more win and he will join Brady in this prestigious category.
Since Tom Brady entered the league in 2000, he has had 11 seasons of 12 regular season wins. Many consider Brady to be the best in December. He has the second best rating in Quarterbacks in the Super Bowl era.
LaGarette Blount set a record with his 15th running touchdown of the season.
Conclusion
While there are two regular season games remaining, will the Patriots capture the number 1 seed? In conclusion, please share your comments with me on the New England Patriot clinch division and your thoughts on the upcoming playoffs.
