Sony Michel – New England's first-round rookie running back is coming off a season-high 133 yards on 21 carries (6.3 avg.) in the win over the Jets. Some of the Patriots best offensive performances have come in Michel's best games this season, but his job will be tougher against a Minnesota D that allows just 3.7 yards a carry.

Stephon Gilmore – Facing a Vikings offense with two No. 1-worthy receivers in Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs, New England's No. 1 cornerback will be tested throughout. The Patriots defense has been at its best when Gilmore has played his best football this season.

Tom Brady – As much as the Patriots seem to be balancing out the offense, New England's chances for victory still very much sit on Brady's right shoulder. His weapons and line are healthy, but he also faces one of the NFL's best, most talented defenses Sunday evening at Gillette Stadium.

Devin McCourty – The Vikings depth and breadth of weapons will test the Patriots pass defense both vertically and horizontally. McCourty will be a key factor dealing with all the weapons, including tight end Kyle Rudolph, both in terms of coverage and tackling after receptions.

Rob Gronkowski – The effects of Gronkowski's return were obvious in New York and went well beyond his 34-yard touchdown. Gronk changes everything from a defensive perspective, but he will need to continue to lift his game against Pro Bowl safety Harrison Smith and the Vikings impressive defense.

Kirk Cousins – The veteran free agent was handed a huge guaranteed contract to take the talented Vikings to the next level. Cousins has had an up-and-down season, but when he's on and putting his impressive weapons to use Minnesota is tough to defend.

Danielle Hunter – Minnesota has the NFL's No. 2 defense in terms of sacks per pass play, with the veteran Hunter leading the way with 11.5. Hunter is just one of the many dangerous athletes on the Vikings front.

Adam Thielen – Thielen has gone from 2013 undrafted free agent to 2018 undisputed star. He leads the NFL in receptions (93) and yards (1,138) while pacing the Vikings with eight touchdowns. Thielen is a challenging combo of size and athleticism.

Harrison Smith – Safety is a position that when played well can impact a defense in almost endless ways against both the run and the pass. Smith is arguably the best safety in the NFL today, a guy that New England must find a way to account for on every snap.

Kyle Rudolph – New England continues to struggle dealing with opposing tight ends and Rudolph is the next solid pass-catcher on the schedule. He comes in with 43 receptions for 425 yards and a pair of touchdowns, while also contributing as a blocker at the end of the line. Rudolph is far more talented that some of the other tight ends that have hurt the Patriots this fall.