After this week's performance against the Lions wrapped up two consecutive uninspiring losses, the yearly cycle for the Patriots has begun: Are they finally done? Is this the year the dynasty falls?
This isn't the last time these questions will be asked. But it's not the first time, either.
Perhaps the most notable regular-season loss of this decade occured when the Patriots were blown out by the Chiefs on Sunday Night Football in 2014. Most Pats fans will remember the doubters emerging in full force about the demise of the New England Patriots. Of course, it ended up being exaggerated, and the team would go on to win another Super Bowl.
Trent Dilfer was one of those doubters, famously claiming post-game that the Patriots "just aren't that good anymore".
Fans have used that quote as a rallying cry, and now that the doubts are again rising about the Patriots, he's showing he hasn't forgotten his past transgressions.
Pats fans wouldn't be too unhappy if things ended up the same as that fateful year. As it stands, many are suffering from PDS. Are these the usual early-season struggles, or indicative of something more? Only time will tell.