FOXBORO — Colin Cowherd, the outspoken host of The Herd, sparked national debate this week when he called the New England Patriots’ 5–2 record “the luckiest streak in the NFL this year.” Cowherd claimed that victories over the Buffalo Bills and Tennessee Titans were the result of opponent mistakes rather than the Patriots’ play.

“Buffalo lost their footing at critical moments,” Cowherd said. “And Tennessee? Their head coach had just left—hardly a meaningful challenge. This Patriots record is an illusion.”

The remarks immediately stirred controversy among Patriots fans, who quickly took to social media to defend their team. But the defense became even more prominent when former Patriots star Rob Gronkowski addressed the comments during a segment on NFL Network’s Good Morning Football.

“I was once a part of this team,” Gronkowski said. “And if there’s one thing the Patriots don’t rely on, it’s luck. You don’t beat the Bills, you don’t lead the AFC East, just by luck. That’s effort, that’s culture, that’s New England DNA.”

Gronkowski highlighted that the Patriots’ standard of success has always gone beyond wins and losses, emphasizing resilience and the ability to thrive under adversity. “When a team is underestimated yet still fights and still wins—that’s not luck, that’s grit,” he said.

The former tight end also praised rookie quarterback Drake Maye, who has impressed in his first season with New England. “He’s got the spirit of a champion,” Gronkowski noted. “You see him practicing every morning, talking to his teammates, staying calm in big moments—those are things you can’t call luck.”

Fans responded almost immediately, flooding social media with support for Gronkowski’s statements. Hashtags celebrating the team’s culture and grit began trending, while highlight reels from past games were shared widely, illustrating the Patriots’ ability to win under pressure. “That’s our Gronk—he gets it,” one fan tweeted. Another posted, “This is why Foxborough isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about heart.”

Analysts observed that Gronkowski’s defense touched on a deeper truth: New England’s success is built on preparation, adaptability, and mental toughness. While Cowherd points to close wins and turnover margins, supporters argue that the team’s disciplined approach and cohesive culture are what truly drive victories.

Cowherd, true to form, stood by his critique, warning that the Patriots “will eventually collapse” if their luck runs out. Gronkowski, however, delivered a pointed response: “Keep doubting them. Because every time you think the Patriots are done—that’s when they come back the strongest.”

The debate has energized both sides, but for Patriots fans, it reinforces pride in their team’s identity. The discussion also highlights the role of culture and leadership in shaping success, elements that numbers alone may fail to capture.

As New England continues its season, all eyes are on how the Patriots handle scrutiny and expectation. With Gronkowski backing the team publicly, fans are rallying behind the idea that their 5–2 record is no fluke, but a reflection of preparation, talent, and the enduring Patriots ethos.

Whether Cowherd’s predictions hold or the Patriots’ grit prevails, one thing is certain: in Foxborough, heart, discipline, and resilience are never up for debate.

Follow for continuing coverage of the Patriots’ season and the ongoing debate surrounding their 2025 performance.