Here it is; the dreaded week four that Patriots fans around the world have been waiting for.
The man New England called the G.O.A.T. is coming back to Gillette Stadium to play the Patriots on Sunday Night Football. It's only fitting this is a prime time game.
This regular season matchup is bigger than any other regular season game in NFL history. Ticket prices are astronomically priced, with even outlets like StubHub and SeatGeek having tickets for sale at around $280-$320 at the cheapest value. With the build up for this game, you would think it would be a wildcard game for two struggling times, but it is quite the opposite.
The Patriots are still trying to find their identity with their rookie quarterback Mac Jones, who ranks the best among rookies QBs with a QBR of 52.0 and ranks second in passer rating with a score of 79.1. Only Davis Mills has a higher passer rating with a score of 80.9
The Buccaneers, however, are coming off an impressive Super Bowl victory over the seemingly unstoppable Kansas City Chiefs. The Bucs were able to retain all 11 offensive and 11 defensive starters throughout the offseason, and just added veteran cornerback Richard Sherman to the team. He stated he will not take the field Sunday against the Patriots because he needs to get back into playing shape and learn the playbook.
Tom Brady is currently having another Tom Brady type season, throwing for 1,087 yards, 10 touchdowns, and comfortably leads the NFL in first down conversions with 60.
And if this game couldn't get enough attention, Brady needs just 68 passing yards against the Pats to pass Drew Brees for most all time, who finished his career with 80,358 yards. It is almost inevitable at this point that Brady will break this record, etching his name into history once more.
Most Patriots fans are excited to see Brady break this record, barring no restrictions of course.
Patriots insider @ethanhurwitzGN will be attending the historic game so be sure to check in on his Twitter page and Instagram account.