It's been a long time since the Patriots played a game with significant meaning, even if it could be argued that the final game of the 2023 season ultimately determined which quarterback they would be able to take in the first round of the following draft.
Beyond that, though, this week's matchup with the Bills is what many around the league refer to as a hat-and-t-shirt game, meaning the Patriots can take the division from the reigning champions and become the newest AFC East champion on Sunday.
Considering the ramifications of the result, especially a loss, which could mean the division might not be decided until Week 18, there is a lot the Patriots need to prepare for.