The Patriots have lost 2 of their last 3 away games to the New York Jets.  This should be motivation enough for them to head into the game ready to play.  As always, the real key to the game is the Patriots' not shooting themselves' in the foot with turnovers.

Coming off a miserable home loss to the Seahawks, a trip to the bay area and a matchup against the 1-8 49ers should be just what the doctor ordered.  Of course we are talking football and nothing should be taken for granted, especially against a team coached by New Hampshire's Chip Kelly.  Nevertheless, unless the offense and special teams give up possessions, like they did last year against Chip Kelly's Eagles, Brady should finish the day tied with Brett Favre for 2nd most wins in the regular season with 199.  For those wondering, Peyton is currently tops with an even 200.  The following is what the Patriots should do to get Brady and team another victory.

If you've read my blog before, you probably know I pay a lot of attention to third downs and the dreaded 3 and out. If you watch any amount of football, you have observed how a 3 and out can completely change the dynamics of a game. In addition to wearing out the defensive team by putting them right back on the field, it also prevents coordinators from making some needed adjustments and allows the opponent to flip the field without having a spectacular special teams play. With my team 7-2, why am I concerned with this?

Sunday night the Patriots lost to the Seahawks at home, coming off of a bye. Yes, I didn't see that coming. As with just about every Patriots' loss within recent memory, a different outcome with one play could have changed the outcome. A different outcome on a few plays could have resulted in Jimmy G. getting some garbage minutes in the 4th quarter. Well, that didn't happen and here we are freaking out about our ole defense and what could have been. At least we have a game this Sunday.

The Patriots are coming off a bye week. Their opponent is coming off a short week. Dion Lewis is back on the active roster. And tonight's game is in Foxboro. While all of those things are pretty favorable for the Patriots securing win number 8, there is still a game to play and plays to execute. The following is what needs to happen to guarantee a win.