New England arrives in Tampa riding a six-game surge that has flipped preseason forecasts. Drake Maye’s confidence and the Patriots’ improved front seven have produced consecutive wins against varied opponents. Tampa Bay returns from a bye with late-week repairs along the offensive line and a run game that can control tempo. Both clubs sit atop their divisions. Sunday’s result will reveal if New England’s streak is a sustainable climb or a midseason spike that stops at Raymond James.
Can Patriots’ momentum survive Tampa’s home advantages and third-down test?
Jan 17, 2024; Foxborough, MA, USA; A New England Patriots helmet sits on a table prior to a press conference at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images
Jan 17, 2024; Foxborough, MA, USA; A New England Patriots helmet sits on a table prior to a press conference at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports
The question is whether the Pats’ hot run will stop in Tampa. It frames the contest as more than a single game. The real question: can a 7-2 road team sustain efficiency against a 6-2 club playing at home after a bye? The Patriots’ streak is real and recent. It’s six straight wins now for New England, following their nail-biter 24-23 finish against Atlanta. Rookie Drake Maye stepped up, tossing 259 yards and firing two touchdowns, making every yard count and injecting real hope in the Patriots’ offense.
On tap next for Tampa Bay, squeezing drives short is the name of their game plan, all thanks to a run defense that’s got a serious backbone. Buccaneers’ scouts aren’t mincing words either; when Week 10 rolls around, it’s third down where the chess match gets interesting, with tweaks and new wrinkles squarely in their sights. If Miami’s run-stoppers have their way, they can force Maye into longer drives and higher variance situations. Buccaneers previews and the team’s Week-10 notes emphasize limiting third-down conversions as a decisive edge.
Odds and health create margin.ESPNlists New England at 7-2 and Tampa Bay at 6-2 ahead of the matchup. Sportsbooks opened Tampa Bay as a roughly 2.5-point favorite. Early injury reports raise question marks on both sides, with key starters listed as questionable in the official injury logs. Those variables tighten the contest and increase the chance a streak can end.
Patriots’ pass game versus the Bucs front. If Maye completes high-leverage throws to DeMario Douglas and Hunter Henry, New England flips the script. If Tampa controls the line and wins the fourth-quarter field position battle, the streak pauses. Inside numbers favor neither team decisively; situational execution will decide this one. Patriots officials called the win streak historic for the franchise.