The Patriots have had two losing seasons in the last three years but somehow, they have managed to average three primetime games per season. The 2023 season will be no different as the team is slated to play four primetime games. So why are the Patriots such an attractive option to network executives still? Simple. Bill Belichick coaches the team and they have a history of success. Being the most dominant dynasty in NFL history still carries weight.

The Patriots are playing primetime games the following weeks this season.

Week 2: Dolphins (SNF) 8:20 pm

Week 14: at Pittsburgh (TNF) 8:15 pm

Week 15: Kansas City (MNF) 8:15 pm

Week 16: at Denver (SNF) 8:15 pm

It is interesting that three of the four primetime games are on the back end of the schedule. All four games are against AFC teams that are going to be in the playoff hunt. No one does drama better than the NFL. It is why they beef up the schedule at the end of the season.

Most Patriots fans will tell you that the team is a shell of what they were when they were a dynasty and that is true but they still have national appeal and they are still a franchise that as seen as being viable.

Despite that, their schedule is tough. Winning ten games will be tough unless they sweep Miami and or the Jets and win one against Buffalo. Otherwise, the Patriots are more than likely an 8-9, 9-8 team once again. If that is the case, they are going to be fighting to be the seventh seed. Not exactly a team that should have as many primetime games as they do. It speaks to the power of the Patriots brand.