For the first time since the 2021 season, and after a five-year AFC East division title drought, the New England Patriots are back where they spent two decades: sitting atop the AFC East standings.

Following a hard fought Week 6 win against the Saints and an unexpected loss by the Buffalo Bills in Atlanta, the Patriots (4-2) have climbed to first place in the division. While they share the same record as the Bills (4-2), New England holds the all-important head-to-head tiebreaker, thanks to their win in Buffalo last Sunday night.

The 4-2 start is the team’s best six-game stretch since 2019, the last time they were AFC East Champions.

The Bills have dominated the division in recent years but it could be up for grabs this season, especially with Buffalo losing two in a row and looking vulnerable. The Patriots on the other hand have won three in a row and more importantly, are undefeated on the road, boasting a perfect 3-0 record away from Foxborough.

It is still early, and the road ahead includes a second matchup with the Bills, but for now, the conversation in New England has shifted. After years of rebuilding narratives, the Patriots are once again dictating the pace in the AFC East. With the Dolphins (1-5) and Jets (0-6) already facing steep climbs, the division is shaping up to be a two-horse race, and the Patriots are leading the pack.

The old feeling is back in New England: first place is a familiar and welcome position, and the hope is the Patriots will stay in the mix to win the division all season long.