The Green Bay Packers (5-3) and New England Patriots (5-3) meet Sunday at Gillette Stadium in a key Week 9 NFL matchup with both teams firmly in the playoff picture.
Analysts offer five bold predictions for the game. First, the Patriots' offensive line is missing left guard Alijah Vera-Tucker and right guard Mike Onwenu (both on injured reserve), which could lead to quarterback Drake Maye being sacked twice and throwing an interception. Maye has thrown three interceptions when pressured this season, per PFF, and may also be without receivers A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs.
Second, Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez is expected to shut down Packers wideout Christian Watson. Gonzalez has allowed just 6.1 yards per target and a 77.8 passer rating when targeted. Watson (42 catches, 708 yards, 6 TDs) and Matthew Golden (43-619-4) are both on pace for 1,200-plus yards and nine-plus touchdowns.
Third, running back Rhamondre Stevenson is projected to exceed 100 scrimmage yards and score a touchdown. Stevenson handled 22 touches last week, and the Patriots' offensive line ranks third in ESPN run-block win rate (76%). Green Bay has allowed 7.1 yards per reception and 33.6 receiving yards per game to running backs in 2026.
Fourth, Packers quarterback Jordan Love is predicted to throw for 250-plus yards and three touchdowns. Love has thrived against the blitz, leading the league with 939 passing yards and nine touchdowns when blitzed. The Patriots blitz at the fourth-highest rate (35.3%) but rank only 13th in pressure rate (22.8%).
Finally, the preview predicts a close finish with Green Bay winning 24-21, citing more confidence in the Packers' ability to score touchdowns despite both teams dealing with injuries and inconsistency.
