Dismantling the Jets 54-13 was certainly a confidence boast for the Patriots. However, if they don’t build off of that performance and play well today, it was all for naught.

The Patriots must prove today that what they did to the Jets last week, is who they are. It can’t be that they just beat up on a really bad football team.

Today’s game against the Chargers is an opportunity for the Patriots to prove that they belong in the conversation in the AFC as a playoff contender.

The offense must continue to stay in rhythm and be balanced. The defense will need to get consistent pressure on Justin Herbert and limit the big plays they have given up on the back end this season.

If the Patriots are able to do those things today, they will win this game. If they revert back to being inconsistent in the passing game, struggle in pass protection and give up chunk plays on defense, they will lose. A loss today put them at 3-5. With that record, they could be toast in terms of making the playoffs.

So yes. Technically speaking, today is a must win. The Patriots need to hit their stride and play their best football of the season. If they do, they will be in the mix in what is a wide open AFC.

Today is about proving that what they did to the Jets last week isn’t a fluke. It is who they are.