New-look Patriots under coach Mike Vrabel face big test in preparing to play AFC East-leading Bills
October 2, 2025
Mike Vrabel acknowledges the shift in the AFC East rivalry between New England and Buffalo since his time as a Patriots linebacker. The Patriots’ first-year coach fully appreciates the challenge New England faces in traveling to play the AFC-leading Bills on Sunday night. Where the Patriots once dominated the Bills during Vrabel’s playing days, Buffalo is now the team to beat. The Bills are five-time defending division champions and have won 14 straight home games. Patriots receiver Stefon Diggs, making his first trip back to Buffalo since being traded, calls it a sentimental return.