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Players to Watch: Patriots vs. Bills
Patriots.com's Mike Dussault shares his players to watch ahead of the Patriots matchup against the Buffalo Bills.


Sony Michel, RB: Michel made an impressive return to the lead back role with Damien Harris sidelined against the Dolphins, putting up 74 yards on 10 carries, his second-best total of the season. Harris had a big day in the first matchup against the Bills and the offense will need Michel to contribute even more if the Patriots are to get things going against a tough, active defense.

Jakobi Meyers, WR: Meyers has been one of the bright spots on offense this season, and has been really productive since ascending into a significant role in Week 7. Coming off his second career 100-yard game, Meyers will once again be heavily counted on through the air. His route running has shown excellent development, as Meyers continues to find ways to get open and make plays despite increased attention.

Kyle Dugger, S: There's little question that Dugger has a bright future ahead of him and should be a long-term solution at safety. The rookie hasn't been without his rookie moments, but every week he's showing up with speed and physicality. He's only scratching the surface and could make some additional strides in the final two weeks.

J.C. Jackson, CB: With Stephon Gilmore reportedly undergoing surgery, all eyes will be on Jackson as he'll draw a tough coverage matchup, likely against Stephon Diggs. Jackson is second in the league in interceptions and will now be auditioning for a role as a number one cornerback. The defense will need a huge game out of him and Jonathan Jones.

Gunner Olszewski, PR: Gunner has come on with his punt returns in recent weeks and is developing into a problem for opponents. The extra yardage he's been picking up on his returns has been critical to field position. He might not contribute much as a receiver yet, but Olszewski has made a case that he can be a solid contributor at a position where the Patriot have been looking for answers in recent seasons.

Josh Allen, QB: The third-year quarterback has the Bills in second place in the conference at 11-3, while throwing 30 touchdowns, rushing for nine more, and only nine interceptions. Allen has an excellent set of complementary weapons and he'll be looking to get the first win of his career in Foxborough.

Stephon Diggs, WR: Diggs has been the perfect addition to the Bills this season, giving them a true number one receiver and he's put up 111 catches for 1,314 yards with five touchdowns. With no Stephon Gilmore to cover him, Diggs will be looking to get loose against the undermanned Pats secondary.

Cole Beasley, WR: Beasley isn't far behind Diggs, and is a trusted slot target who can make tough catches and has a knack for finding holes in coverage. He's second on the team with 79 catches and needs just 50 more receiving yards for the first 1,000 yard season of his career.

Jordan Poyer, S: One of Buffalo's talented secondary players, Poyer is their most active defender, leading the team with 117 total tackles. Poyer is all over the field, with two sacks, five passes defensed and two interceptions, and he'll be a thorn in the Patriots side on every down. He had 11 tackles in the first matchup.

A.J. Klein, LB: Klein is tied for the team lead with five sacks, while also chipping in 71 tackles. A physical tone setter on the edge of the defense, the Patriots will need to account for the experienced defender. Getting him pinned inside will be a big key for the Pats ground attack as they target the edges.