Foxboro, Mass. (WGR Sports Radio 550) - The Buffalo Bills will look to end the regular season with four-straight wins, and a franchise record 14 total victories when they travel to New England to take on the Patriots at Gillette Stadium.
To do that, here are my three keys to the game, plus notes and stats:
1.) For the guys playing, let it all hang out
We know the Bills will be playing quite a few backup players in this one, and quarterback Josh Allen will only play a handful of snaps, at most.
For the guys who are playing, they’ll be getting a great shot to put their best on tape for coaches and the league to see. They’ll want, and have an opportunity, to play their best football individually, while helping the team get a win, as they all head to the playoffs together.
2.) Stop the run
The Patriots want to make sure their rookie quarterback Drake Maye gets out of this game healthy, which is why there is even still some speculation on whether or not he will start.
Assuming he does, they’ll probably look to run the ball effectively to not only help him and not keep him sitting in the pocket against a pass rush, but also because the Bills have struggled in that department on defense this season. If he doesn't start or exits the game, that should still be the formula for New England.
This would also be a good game for the Bills to gain some confidence stopping the run as they head to the playoffs.
3.) Win on special teams
These teams played just two weeks ago. The Bills won by a field goal.
They also allowed a 42-yard kick return and a fake punt. The Patriots will look for any little advantage they can get, and they may, once again, look for it on special teams.
The Bills need to be more buttoned-up than they have been for most of the season, and limit any opportunities for New England to steal hidden yardage.
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