Patriots Power Rankings Fall: 'Thrilled' After Loss?

The New England Patriots had some shining moments, but lost their season opener. Where does that put them in this week's power rankings?

The New England Patriots (0-1) are preparing for their first AFC East matchup Sunday night against the Miami Dolphins (1-0) in hopes of grabbing their first win of the season.

Even though the Patriots lost their Week 1 contest, there was a lot to like in the loss against an elite Philadelphia Eagles team coming off the heels of a Super Bowl appearance in February.

The Pats clocked in at No. 17 in Sports Illustrated's latest power rankings.

"I actually think the Patriots should be thrilled, or as happy as you’re going to be with a loss," SI writes. "Mac Jones looked good. He threw for three touchdowns and just one interception against a very good secondary and great pass rush. The Patriots couldn’t run the ball at all, and Jones took it on his shoulders. He extended some plays deep and started giving that athletic receiving corps some room to run. It makes sense. And, having come back from a 16-point deficit against the conference champions last year, we could see New England getting a lot more comfortable swinging with the heavyweights on its schedule."

The Patriots could have possibly grabbed a win if they played a lesser opponent, but New England has to play whoever is on the other sideline. 

The fact of the matter is, the Patriots are going to play some really good teams this season. Over half of their games come against teams that made the postseason a year ago, so while New England should be pleased with how the team performed, it won't stay that way if the losses don't turn into wins.