ZWExton Imagine if they had a reliable AB and a functional Dez on the field by the end of the season? Those kinds of threats make a team think a little harder about sending extra guys to the QB.
And Gronk is well rested...
If the Patriots go anywhere in the playoffs with the offense they have now, then the defense has to really play well. Averaging 18 points a game isn't going to cut it in the playoffs. From what I understand it was Kraft's decision to get rid of Brown. I'd bring him back and force the NFL's hand as to whether he gets suspended.
With teams double covering Edelman the other receivers need to step up. But again the offensive line is suspect this year. They're on their 3rd string center and a rookie left tackle. So, the offense has issues and we'll see how it goes. They have at Cincinnati next, followed by Buffalo and Miami at home.