The New England Patriots have shocked the NFL world with how well they've played this season. The Patriots are 10-2, holding the best record in the league in their first year under head coach Mike Vrabel.

Vrabel has changed the Patriots' culture, and quarterback Drake Maye is in the MVP conversation in his second season in the league.

With their dominance thus far, the Patriots were ranked the 2nd best team in the NFL by Fox Sports, only behind the 9-2 Los Angeles Rams.

New England continues to find ways to win games. While their schedule has been easy, the Patriots have had impressive wins over the Buffalo Bills and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Maye's progression from his rookie season to now has been the catalyst for New England's ascent. Maye has completed 71 percent of his passes for 3,130 yards, 21 touchdowns, and six interceptions. He's also rushed for 307 yards and two touchdowns.

The 23-year-old quarterback has benefited from the addition of wide receiver Stefon Diggs. The Patriots added Diggs in free agency on a three-year $69 million deal. The 31-year-old wideout has produced, hauling in 61 receptions for 679 yards and three touchdowns.

Diggs has been the reliable wide receiver one for Maye that the Patriots were missing last season.

New England's run game has also improved throughout the season as rookie TreVeyon Henderson has received more playing time. Henderson was the Patriots' second-round pick, and he's rushed for 558 yards and five touchdowns on 118 carries. He also has 29 receptions for 180 yards and a touchdown.

The offense under Maye has been productive, but the defense has been just as good, if not better. The Patriots are giving up the eighth-fewest yards per game, the second-fewest rushing yards per game, and the sixth-fewest points per game.

New England will look to continue their successful season in Week 13 against the New York Giants. The Patriots have shown that they are a true contender in the AFC. However, they are a young team, and to win it all, Maye and the offense will need to remain consistent in his first playoff appearance.