Patriots' NFL coverage map news is a big sign for New England's rise

The New England Patriots continue to prove themselves to be a legitimate contender.

For the first time this weekend, the NFL's broadcast coverage maps seem to agree.

The Pats will get the CBS 'A' team for their afternoon game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Jim Nantz and Tony Romo will be on the call.

The game will be shown to the majority of the country:

For the first time this season, the Patriots get a TV’s ‘A’ crew and national spotlight for an afternoon game. pic.twitter.com/ifyv4Rydol

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It's certainly about as big a game as you could get between two teams in opposite conferences in Week 10.

The Patriots come in at 7-2. They just won a one-point victory over the Atlanta Falcons, aided by a missed extra point late but also having played well enough yet again to win.

The Buccaneers are 6-2, with QB Baker Mayfield playing at a high level.

Drake Maye against Mayfield should be an absolutely thrilling clash of two tough quarterbacks who can move all over the place and make all sorts of throws from anywhere on the field. They've both got a moxie and a swagger about them.

Both teams are still dealing with some major injuries, including Rhamondre Stevenson and Kayshon Boutte for New England and Bucky Irving and Chris Godwin and Mike Evans for the Bucs.

Even if they aren't full strength, though, these teams are really good and led by special QBs. It'll make for a great watch for millions on Sunday.

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