Cam Newton, QB: Newton took responsibility for the Patriots uneven offensive performance against the Broncos, which was somewhat understandable considering all the factors of the last two weeks and how injuries unfolded. Now, with a week of practice, Newton and the offense have a chance to get back on track. Five games into the season it's clear that as Newton goes so too goes the Patriots offense.

Adrian Phillips, DB: The Patriots leading tackler continues to show up since being signed from the Chargers this past offseason. Playing in a similar role to the one Patrick Chung occupied for so many seasons, Phillips has seamlessly integrated into the complicated defense. With the 49ers attacking horizontally often, Phillips will once again be in the thick of things.

Kyle Dugger, DB: The talented rookie continues to see time on defense as a role player in the middle of the field and like Phillips, figures to be a key piece in defending the 49ers attack. Will Dugger get a chance to cover Kittle? This could be the biggest test of his young career as the team continues to monitor his development.

Lawrence Guy, DL: There's no question, Guy is the best player in New England's front right now and as the defensive line continues to battle sickness and injuries, he's become even more important. The versatile defensive lineman can line up anywhere on the line and is a dominant force against the run, making life easier for the second-level defenders to make plays. He'll be key in not letting San Francisco's battered run game get loose.

N'Keal Harry, WR: The final fourth-down play against the Broncos saw Harry targeted on an incompletion, but once again Cam Newton looked the second-year receiver's way in a key spot. The Patriots will aim to get their passing attack going against the decimated 49ers secondary and Harry could be a key piece as he gets back into a rhythm with his quarterback.

Jimmy Garoppolo, QB: Patriots fans need no introduction to San Fran's starting quarterback who spent his first three seasons in New England. Garoppolo led the 49ers to the Super Bowl in his first fully-healthy season, but suffered a high ankle sprain this season that has limited him in recent weeks. Still, Garoppolo's quick release and ability to spread the ball around will be a problem for the Patriots defense to contend with and now must concoct a plan to shut down their former backup.

George Kittle, TE: Kittle is the best tight end in the NFL right now, earning plenty of respect from players and coaches around the league for his well-balanced game. The Patriots defensive gameplan will likely have a heavy focus on dealing with Kittle, but he's too good to be completely shut down, leading the team with 30 catches despite missing two games, including a whopping 15 catches against the Eagles in Week 4.

Jerick McKinnon, RB: With lead back Raheem Mostert headed to IR, McKinnon should be the next man up in the 49ers backfield as they try to take advantage of New England's preference of heavy defensive back personnel. McKinnon hasn't wowed this season, but does have three touchdowns on 41 carries in his first season after coming over from the Vikings.

Deebo Samuel, WR: Samuel is getting back on track after missing the first three games of the season, putting up his best performance last week against the Rams with six catches for 66 yards. Last season, as a rookie, Samuel had 57 catches for 802 yards. He's a hard-charger and is used in a variety of ways. The Patriots defense must be ready for his physicality after the catch.

Fred Warner, LB: The 49ers leading tackler, Warner is all over the field playing nearly every defensive snap. Still just 24 in his third season, Warner is on pace for his third-straight 100 tackle season and is the biggest playmaker left in a ravaged 49ers front seven. He'll play a big role in limiting Cam Newton's options and will be heavily involved.