Mini Buf-NE game preview.

Week 1 is only a few days away, and with the Bills having some big questions to answer already. It'll be interesting how the Patriots will play and perform Sunday given that the Bills will be playing on a third string QB, a new head coach and some key defenders that are missing. It's kind of like a fifth preseason game for the Patriots, and I'm not trying to say this game is easy because no one knows how well Jeff Tuel will play. That being said, what can we expect from our beloved Patriots? Given the circumstances, here are my player and game projections.

QB:

Tom Brady: 23/33 69.6%, 287 yards, 2 TD's.
Jeff Tuel: 12/25 48%, 177 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT.

RB:

Stevan Ridley: 22 carries, 119 yards, 1 TD.
CJ Spiller: 29 carries, 112 yards, 1 TD.

WR:
Kenbrell Thompkins: 6 rec, 88 yards, 1 TD.
Stevie Johnson: 7 rec, 92 yards.

Top projected defensive performer for each team:

Patriots:  Devin McCourty S
Bills: Marcell Dareus DT

Projected game score:

Patriots: 27
Bills: 17

Things to watch 4:

1. How the Patriots defense acts against a third string QB who didn't hear his name called on draft day.

2. If the communication between Brady and his WR's are there or not.

3. Special teams has its questions, a new punter and Gostkowski has been shaky from distance in the preseason.

4. How the offensive line holds against the strength of the Bills team, their pass rush.

Bills win checklist (If the Bills complete these three things, they will win, or come close.)

1. Jeff Tuel outplays Tom Brady.
2. The Bills win the turnover battle.
3. The Bills defense completes stands in their redzone.