The 2025 NFL season is reaching its final chapter in the regular season, and the AFC East has been lucky to feature one of its biggest storylines. The New England Patriots have established themselves as one of the conferenceās most dominant teams and will look to add another win in Foxborough against the inconsistent Miami Dolphins.
Drake Maye has established himself as the teamās leader, even entering the conversation for this seasonās MVP. His talent was on full display in his latest outing, where the Patriots dominated the Jets, showing theyāre capable of great things.
Meanwhile, the Dolphins once again struggled with inconsistencies week after week, to the point of even benching Tua Tagovailoa. Still, after a big Week 17 win over the Buccaneers, Miami is ready to spoil the party for its longtime divisional rivals.
What happens if the Patriots lose to the Dolphins?
If the Patriots lose to the Dolphins today, they will officially drop any chance at the AFCās No. 1 seed and a first-round bye. Depending on other results, a loss could see the New England Patriots slide to the No. 3 seed, forcing them to play at home during Wild Card Weekend rather than resting until the divisional round.
Drake Maye #10 of the New England Patriots is pushed out of bounds by safety Dante Trader Jr.
What happens if the Patriots beat the Dolphins?
see also
Stefon Diggs issues strong criticism of Patriots teammate who deserved Pro Bowl selection
If the Patriots beat the Dolphins today, they will improve their record to 14-3 and secure at least the No. 2 seed in the AFC. To capture the No. 1 seed and the only first-round bye, they also need the Denver Broncos (13-3) to lose or tie against the Chargers.
However, if New England wins but Denver also wins, the Patriots will remain the No. 2 seed due to tiebreakers, staying just ahead of the Jacksonville Jaguars (12-4) in the standings.
AFC East current standings before Week 18
- New England Patriots (13-3)
- Buffalo Bills (11-5)
- Miami Dolphins (7-9)
- New York Jets (3-13)
