It is week 3 of the pre-season and the Patriots return home to host Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers. The third pre-season game is usually when the starters play so expect to see many of the starters in action tonight.

Here are five thoughts on tonight’s game.

1. The starters will play tonight: The starters will play tonight. How long depends on Bill Belichick and the coaching staff. My guess is they will play a quarter. Don’t be surprised however if they played a half.

2. Two back theme continues: The Patriots will continue to use 21 and 22 personnel a lot in this pre-season, including tonight. The Patriots emphasized two back formations last season and have continued to utilize them this pre-season. Look for some early play action passes as the Patriots will take shot to loosen up Brady’s arm.

3. Sony Michel debuts: Expect Sony Michel to make his pre-season debut tonight. Michel should get five to ten carries in what will amount to a quarter worth of work.

4. More pressure looks on defense: Expect the Patriots to use more fronts and pressures as the Patriots expand their camp install and give Cam Newton some different looks. They still won’t show too much. It’s the pre-season.

5. Does Micheal Bennett play tonight? Bennett is healthy so there is no reason why he doesn’t get some work tonight. Bennett needs to play to get comfortable with the calls and movements on pressures and slants.

Final thoughts: The starters are going to play. How long remains to be seen. Regardless, it will be good to see the starters get some game action and knock off the rust.