The Patriots will face the NFL's 30th-ranked run defense in Green Bay. That should call for more balance on offense, with a chance for both Blount and Gray to carry the rock and try establish a hot hand on the ground. 

Gronk continues to roll, even when he doesn't put up huge numbers. If the Packers try to take away big No. 87 with extra focus it will open things up for others, as it did to the tune of two scores for Tim Wright against the Lions. If not, it will lead to more highlights for Gronkowski.

The veteran cornerback played his best game as a Patriot when he was matched up against Calvin Johnson last Sunday. He may get another chance to prove himself against another big receiver in this meeting with the Packers and top playmaker Jordy Nelson.

The New England defensive coordinator has been doing an impressive job in recent weeks, but Green Bay may present the most balanced run/pass defense the Patriots have faced in a month. Patricia needs to call a game to slow the best quarterback in the game today as well as a solid running game.

Hightower has taken over at middle linebacker and led a Patriots defense that's been getting better by the week. He and the front will face a solid test against big-bodied Eddie Lacy and an athletic quarterback in Aaron Rodgers.

Rodgers is the perfect combination of accuracy, decision making and athleticism. He keeps plays alive with his legs. He has just three interceptions and hasn't thrown a pick at home since 2012. He tests a defense in just about every way possible.

The Packers don't run a lot, but when they do the 230-pound Lacy is a load to bring down while averaging 4.4 yards a carry. Also the team's third-leading receiver, New England must tackle well to keep Lacy from building up momentum.

The Packers have moved the  Pro Bowl outside linebacker Matthews to the inside on early downs in recent weeks to help the team's dismal run defense. He moves all over the front, so before the Patriots can deal with Matthews they need to locate the energetic playmaker.

Like the Lions, the Packers have two primary pass catchers. Nelson (68 receptions) and Cobb (58) are Rodgers top targets by far and have produced a combined 19 touchdown catches. Two very good receivers for Green Bay. Two very good cornerbacks for the Patriots. Let the matchup begin.

Burnett is a physical safety who leads the Packers in tackles. But he also is in the middle of a suspect secondary, along with Micah Hyde and rookie Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, that must deal with Rob Gronkowski and the Patriots pass attack. Good luck with that.