AFC EAST SEASON PREVIEW

AFC East season preview + O/U win total projections.

I’ve been eagerly awaiting the release of these articles all offseason, as following win total projections was one of my favorite activities last year. Last season, I went 20-12 predicting over/under win totals, and I’m aiming to surpass that record this year.

New York Jets: Over 5.5

The Jets made smart moves in the offseason to move beyond the Aaron Rodgers era. I was impressed by their hiring of Aaron Glenn, whom I wanted for the Saints’ head coaching job. I believe he has the ability to transform the team’s culture and restore the defense to its former glory. Justin Fields showed promise early with the Steelers before being replaced by Russell Wilson. On paper, the Jets boast their strongest offensive line in years, which should bolster their running game. Facing the NFC South this year makes six wins highly achievable.

New England Patriots: Under 8.5

While I’m betting the under on their win total, I’m excited about Mike Vrabel’s Patriots. Drake Maye impressed me last season, and the additions of Stefon Diggs and Treyveon Henderson provide him with dynamic playmakers. The offensive line remains a concern, but drafting Will Campbell is a solid step toward improvement. Flying under the radar is the return of Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator, who will significantly aid the young quarterback. I believe Vrabel will have the defense performing at a high level, but the hype has inflated the win total line too high.

Miami Dolphins: Under 8.5

In stark contrast to my optimism for the Patriots, I’m completely down on the Dolphins this season. As I wrote in my “NFL Bold Predictions” article, I predict Mike McDaniel will be the first head coach fired in 2025. With the season just a week away, concerns persist about locker room issues. The Dolphins haven’t addressed their secondary, which has lost three starters, and starting kicker Jason Sanders will miss the first half of the season. Additionally, De’Von Achane may miss the first three weeks. The defense will struggle, the offensive line hasn’t improved, and if Tua Tagovailoa gets injured again, the Dolphins could struggle to score.

Buffalo Bills: Over 11.5

Little explanation is needed here. The Bills have a favorable schedule and are poised for another deep playoff run with Josh Allen leading the way. I’d confidently take Over 12.5. They face the NFC South, the Jets, and the Dolphins in their division, plus the AFC North, setting them up for a strong season.