AFC East: Full 2023 Season Preview and Predictions

AFC East: Full 2023 Season Preview and Predictions | The Wandering Buffaloo

Josh Allen, Aaron Rodgers, Mac Jones, Tua Tagovailoa, NFL Quarterbacks

As the NFL preseason winds down, the excitement for real football is reaching its maxiumum. The stage is set for riveting action as the Buffalo Bills gear up to clash in their first AFC East matchup of the regular season, facing none other than Aaron Rodgers and the formidable New York Jets.

Before diving into the highly anticipated matchups of the upcoming season, let's revisit the standout moments of the previous year. In 2022, the Buffalo Bills demonstrated their prowess by concluding the season with an impressive 13-3 record. Trailing closely were the Miami Dolphins, securing a respectable 9-8 standing. The New England Patriots faced their share of trials, finishing with an 8-9 record, while the New York Jets found themselves at the lower end of the spectrum with a 7-10 record, marking the conclusion of an eventful 2022 season.

Within the intense battles that unfolded in the AFC East, the Buffalo Bills held their ground with a commendable 4-2 record. Concurrently, both the Miami Dolphins and the New England Patriots showcased their mettle with matching records of 3-3. Conversely, the New York Jets faced struggles, culminating in a 2-4 record. These statistics serve as a poignant reminder that divisional matchups are undeniably the most grueling, given the intimate familiarity of facing the same opponents twice a year. This more profound understanding of strengths, play styles, and strategic game plans adds more intensity to these encounters.

As the dawn of a new season approaches, it is abundantly clear that fierce competition looms on the horizon. The AFC East teams have bolstered their ranks with an influx of talent during the offseason, setting the stage for thrilling clashes. The spotlight shines brightly on the New York Jets and the Miami Dolphins, both riding waves of excitement and anticipation. The burning question lingers: Can either of these contenders dethrone the Buffalo Bills from their reigning position as AFC East champions, ending the Bills' three-year streak? Let's delve into the forthcoming matchups that will shape the narrative:

Week 1: Buffalo Bills vs. New York Jets

This match couldn't have higher stakes, presenting a captivating storyline. It marks the season's inaugural game for both teams, with the added intrigue of Aaron Rodgers' debut as a New York Jet. The showdown between James and Dalvin Cook further enriches the narrative. With so many compelling elements, this promises to be an entertaining and closely contested game. While offseason changes can bring surprises, the Buffalo Bills, given their recent history, will likely secure a victory in this match.

Week 2: Miami Dolphins vs. New England Patriots

Another week, another intense AFC East showdown. The Miami Dolphins are set to travel to New England for this clash. While the Patriots might be projected to end up in the lower ranks of the AFC East, it's essential to acknowledge the formidable reputation of any Bill Belichick-coached team. In this case, the Patriots will likely secure the win based on their historical strengths.

Week 3: New England Patriots vs. New York Jets

This matchup carries a heightened sense of excitement. Depending on the outcomes of the first two weeks, both the New England Patriots and the New York Jets could be striving to gain momentum with a victory. On paper, the Jets boast a stronger overall team, which gives them the edge in this matchup.

Week 4: Miami Dolphins vs. Buffalo Bills

A historic rivalry is reignited in this matchup, and with the advantage of a home game, the Buffalo Bills are likely to secure the win.

Week 7: Buffalo Bills vs. New England Patriots

As previously noted, facing a Bill Belichick-coached team is always a challenge. Even on the Patriots' turf, the Buffalo Bills are expected to emerge victorious in this encounter.

Week 8: New England Patriots vs. Miami Dolphins

Emotions will be running high after the predicted loss in the previous matchup. This time, the Patriots are likely to bounce back with a win, causing the Miami Dolphins to reevaluate their strategy.

Week 11: New York Jets vs. Buffalo Bills

Despite predicting a win for the Buffalo Bills in Week 1, the Jets are an excellent football team. With the Jets regaining their confidence mid-year, I predict a Jets win in a very close game.

Week 12: Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets

This matchup presents one of the most challenging decisions in the series. The teams are closely matched, but with home-field advantage, the New York Jets are projected to secure the victory.

Week 15: New York Jets vs. Miami Dolphins

In a similarly tight matchup, home-field advantage tips the scale in favor of the Miami Dolphins.

Week 17: New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills

The New England Patriots are undergoing a transition, and the Buffalo Bills are likely to capitalize on this situation, securing a victory.

Week 18: Buffalo Bills vs. Miami Dolphins

As the season nears its end, the Miami Dolphins, with their playoff hopes on the line, are expected to deliver a strong performance and clinch a victory against the Buffalo Bills. In this game, they edge out a win against the Buffalo Bills to continue their playoff hopes.

Week 18: New York Jets vs. New England Patriots

With both teams vying for playoff contention, the New England Patriots are projected to come out on top, recognizing the must-win nature of the game.

Each passing week brings fresh challenges and opportunities, setting the stage for a captivating season as these AFC East powerhouses vie for supremacy in one of the league's most fiercely contested divisions. As the NFL drama unfolds, fans can expect electrifying matchups, unexpected turns, and the triumph of true football spirit.

Divisional Records:

Buffalo Bills: 4-2
The Buffalo Bills win the division yet again, but not by a whole lot. I predict the Buffalo Bills to end the season with a record of 14-3.

New York Jets: 3-3
Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets lived up to the hype, for the most part. The New York Jets end the season 10-7. Making the playoffs as a but ending near .500 in their division.

New England Patriots: 3-3
Surprisingly, the New England Patriots ends up as a seven-seed in the playoffs, ending their 2023 season 9-8.

Miami Dolphins: 2-4
Another surprise here, the Miami Dolphins finish last in the AFC East and also miss the playoffs. Ending their season 8-9.

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Jakob Merkel
CO-FOUNDER - EXECUTIVE PRODUCER - GRAPHIC DESIGNER
www.jakobmerkel.com