It wouldn't be a successful season in New England if the team were scrutinized for some outlandish reason. Unfortunately, that's what's happening now, as the Patriots head into the playoffs. Besides not being considered a serious threat because of their overall inexperience, the main criticism continues to center on their strength of schedule.
Those questioning how a team that just went 4-13 last year has now won 14 games this year suggest they have only played bad teams; therefore, that explains their success.
It's been a talking point all season long, and the players have had to answer several questions about it, which can't be easy.