The Patriots lost their fifth straight game on Sunday, falling to the Chargers by a score of 6—0 in Week 13. Not only was it an ugly loss that saw New England get shut out by a Los Angeles squad that has had defensive troubles, but it was also an unprecedented defeat, as the Patriots made history for the wrong reason.
New England became the first team in the Super Bowl era to lose three straight games despite allowing 10 points or less in each contest, per The Athletic.
The Patriots are the first team in the Super Bowl era to lose three straight game despite allowing 10 or fewer points in all three contests.
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) December 3, 2023
H/T @bostonsportsinf pic.twitter.com/kq1u85xNbx
New England, which has had its fair share of troubles offensively this season, seems to have hit rock bottom after the loss to the Chargers. Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, undoubtedly looking to provide a spark to his offense, went with backup QB Bailey Zappe under center against LA rather than Mac Jones, who was benched in Week 12 after a two-interception game in the loss to the Giants.
New England can take solace in the fact that its defense is playing well, but that’s overshadowed by just how putrid this offense, which ranked second-to-last in points per game heading into the game, has been.
Making matters even worse is the fact that the Patriots have games coming against stout defenses in the Steelers, Chiefs and Broncos.
Perhaps this isn't rock bottom.
