This Trap Game Could Keep the Patriots From Making the Playoffs in 2020

The 2020 New England Patriots are not the same team fans have watched dominate the league since the turn of the century. After spending 20 seasons with the Patriots, franchise quarterback Tom Brady is now playing in Tampa. Without Brady, the Pats have moved from title-contending to a fringe playoff team.

Coach Bill Belichick still patrols the sidelines for a Patriots team that gave up the least yards per game in the NFL on defense last season. All signs point to the Patriots pushing for the Playoffs, but there's a trap game in Week 15 that could end New England's chances.

In Week 15, the Patriots travel south to face off against the Miami Dolphins. New England is 14-36 all-time playing the Dolphins in Miami, including last season, when they were upset 27-24 in Week 17.

Historical precedent isn't the only thing that points to a Patriots loss in Week 15. The matchup has all the markings of a trap game.

The week after a game in Miami, the Pats will head home to host the Buffalo Bills. The Bills are a team favored by many to win the AFC East this season. After securing a Wild Card berth last season, the Bills improved by adding star receiver Stefon Diggs this offseason.

Their marquee matchup with the Pats will be broadcast nationally on Monday Night Football.

The young and athletic Miami Dolphins pose a tough matchup for the Pats to begin with. Combining that with the Patriots historical struggles in Miami, and the upcoming primetime matchup with the Bills, creates a trap game that could stop the Patriots' playoff push in 2020.