It is that time of the year again where we start to look at playoff scenarios as we head into the final weekend of the regular season.

For the Patriots, it is simple next Sunday in Buffalo. Win and you are in. The ultimate do it yourself scenario. The problem is, they are facing the top seeded Buffalo Bills. A team that is 5-1 against the Patriots in their last six meetings.

Can the Patriots beat the Bills? Sure but they are going to need to play the perfect game in order to do so. The weather will not be a factor like last season’s regular season match in Buffalo. It is supposed to be 32 degrees and cloudy.

The Patriots must find a way to run the football and shorten the game like they did last season up there. Finishing drives will be key. Mac Jones will throw the ball a lot more than three times.

Defensively, it is about defending Josh Allen. Allen has carved up the Patriots defense in recent meetings, especially as a runner. Getting pressure on him, keeping him in the pocket and getting multiple hats to the ball when he runs will all be keys for the Patriots defense in this game.

The Patriots could still get in even with a loss but in order for that to happen, the following must happen:

1. Win

2. A tie and a Dolphins loss or tie and a Steelers loss or tie.

3. A loss, a Dolphins loss, a Steelers loss and a Titans loss or tie.

So as you can see, the easiest path to the 7th seed in the AFC is a win. Unfortunately Patriots fans, it is also the most unrealistic path. If Buffalo plays all of their starters on Sunday, they should win. So if the Patriots want to back door in, they are going to need to help.

Beating Buffalo is certainly not out of the question and it is possible. The Patriots will need a lot of things to go their way in order for that happen however. The question is, which Patriots team will show up? The one that beat the Bills in the regular season last season or the one that got blown out in the playoffs? We’ll find out on Sunday.

Bottom line. If the Patriots want to make the playoffs, they are going to have to do it the old fashion way. Earn it.