NFL Power Rankings: Week 17

12 of 15

New England Patriots (12-3)

Dec 13, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) walks off the field after a game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Texans 27-6. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

For a guy that gets as much heat as he does, Tom Brady continues to improve, and that should scare everyone.

Despite losing to the Jets in overtime, the Patriots still have the upper hand in the playoff picture.

It’s going to be inexplicably difficult for any team to go into Foxborough and get a playoff win.

Knowing that the Patriots are that determined to let everyone around the league continue to hate them, they understand full well that when we suffer they bask in glory.

Rob Gronkowski is going to be a force to be reckoned with, and Malcolm Butler has made a statement on defense, proving he is more than just a mythical hero.

Brady could go on to win another Super Bowl this season — but he can’t let himself get in the way.

Next: No. 3