While not unexpected, the Patriots ’ Thursday night win over the Jets strengthened their grip on first place in the AFC East. The victory also puts pressure on the Colts and Broncos to keep pace in the race for the AFC’s No. 1 seed.

At 9-2, New England, at least temporarily, has the best record in the NFL before Sunday’s games even kick off.

At 5-4, the defending AFC champion Chiefs are currently one spot out of the playoffs, but they’ll have a chance to fight their way in, while impacting the top of the race at the same time.

Kansas City is at Denver on Sunday before hosting the Colts next week at Arrowhead. Indy has a bye this week to prepare.

Here’s where things stand:

Patriots record: 9-2

Games remaining : 6

Patriots Schedule:

Sun., Nov 23 —@ Cincinnati

Mon., Dec 1 —vs

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