Kickoff: The Patriots are back after being on a bye last week. New England visits the struggling Arizona Cardinals who have lost three in a row. On paper, this is the Patriots most winnable game left on their schedule so if they want to improve on last season’s win total, they need this one. 

Here are four keys to the game for the Patriots.

1st Down: Shake off the rust: The Patriots should be well rested coming off a bye. I fully expect them to come out executing and limit the mistakes that they have made thus far this season. As always, a good start is important on the road. All three phases must play well if the Patriots are going to win this game. All three must start strong today.

2nd Down: Pass protection has to be good: The Patriots have allowed a 41.4 % pressure rate this season. That is the second highest in the NFL. Conversely, the Cardinals pressure rate is 31.3%, eighth lowest in the NFL. Translation, their pass rush is not very effective so the offensive line should not have an issue blocking Arizona’s pressure. 

3rd Down Pound the Rock: Arizona’s run defense has struggled this season. The Cardinals are giving up 121.8 yards per game on the ground this season. They gave up 176 yards rushing last week to the Seahawks. The Patriots should have no problem running the ball in this game. Offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt needs to stay patient and keep giving Rhamondre Stevenson and the other backs the ball. They have the potential to have a big game. 

4th Down: Maye must take care of the ball: Maye’s turnover problems are well documented. He needs to take care of the ball the rest of this season and it starts today against a Cardinals team that does not generate many turnovers. Maye cannot force the ball into tight spots as a passer and he cannot be loose with it in or out of the pocket. 

Extra Point: The Patriots lead the all-time series with a 9-7 record including a 6-4 record in road games and a 2-0 record at State Farm Stadium. The Patriots beat Arizona 27-13 on Monday Night Football in Arizona on Dec. 12, 2022. New England has won their last three games against Arizona.

Final Drive: The Patriots can win this game but they must get off to a good start, run the ball effectively and not turn it over. If they do those three things, they should be in good shape in this one.