Poll: What will the Patriots record be at the end of the year?

So, it's the half way point of the season. The Patriots have played eight games, and they have eight more to play.

Before the season started, it looked like this first eight games was the Patriots easiest stretch - with games against the three worst teams in the NFC West. Those teams turned out to be more challenging than we initially thought.

The Patriots have had their fair share of struggles. From fourth quarter meltdowns, horrible secondary play, to inconsistent receiver play and a slew of injuries.

Still, they've made it to the half way point of the season with the exact same record they had last year, when they went to the Super Bowl.

The Patriots will hit the bye week and start preparations for a rematch against Buffalo, whom they have also blown out this season.

There aren't many games that look like cakewalks in the second half of the season. Aside from Jacksonville and maybe Indianapolis, every opponent will provide a stiff challenge for the Patriots.

Highlighting the slate are the Texans, 49ers and Jets. Thankfully the match ups against Houston and San Francisco will be at home. The Patriots will also face Miami twice, who have been much better this year than expected.

The Patriots are known for playing their best football in the second half of the season. You often hear Tom Brady or Tedy Bruschi say that Belichick always tells the team the season doesn't begin until after Thanksgiving. That's not far away.

Where will the Patriots be when all is said in done? Last year, they didn't lose a game until the Superbowl.