it’s hard for me to blame the Pats. They have managed to create a dynasty in an era of parity in the NFL. Two words: Belichick and Brady. And an owner who doesn’t meddle in player personnel issues.
Since 1960 they have won 5 SB, played in 8. All under Belichick, with Brady as QB. They have made the playoff all but 4 seasons since Belichick arrived in 2000. Impressive.
Have they benefited from poor division completion? Sure, but you don’t go to 8 SBs by just beating up on bad teams in your division.