Lines: Steelers -1.5, O/U: 44.5

Kickoff: The Patriots host the Steelers in an early season showdown at Gillette Stadium. Both teams are coming in at 1-1 but the Patriots have been the better team thus far in terms of how they have played.

Calling this a must win this early in the season is silly but this is a big game and a litmus test for just how good this Patriots team can truly be

Here are four keys to the game.

1st Down: Run the football: Pittsburgh is ranked 28 in the NFL in rushing yards allowed at 149.5 per game. Their run defense has been atrocious thus far. The Patriots have to make the running game a focal point and feature Rhamondre Stevenson and Tre’veyon Henderson.

2nd Down: Don’t let Rodgers get into a groove: The Patriots cannot allow Aaron Rodgers to get into a groove. We all know what he can do when he is in rhythm. The Patriots league leading pass rush has to get consistent pressure on him and Harold Landry and company need to be disciplined in their rush lanes.

3rd Down: Don’t let Watt stymie your offense: We all know Steelers edge rusher T.J Watt is one of the best defenders in the league and a game wrecker. The Patriots have to make him the focal point of their pass protection plan this week. Helping both Will Campbell and Morgan Moses will be a priority. If the Patriots leave them one on one routinely, it will be a problem.

4th Down: Win the turnover battle: I expect a close game. A game that will come down to extra possessions. Turnovers will be a key in this game. We know Rodgers doesn’t over the ball very often. That puts even more pressure on Drake Maye and the offense to take care of the ball. If the Patriots lose the turnover battle, they will lose this game.

Extra Point: This week’s matchup will mark the 36th meeting overall. The series is tied, 15-15, in the regular season, while New England leads 4-1 in the postseason. The Patriots are 5-4 in home games against Pittsburgh and 2-0 in home postseason games against the Steelers. (Courtesy of patriots.com)

Final Drive: The Patriots need an early season statement win and beating the Steelers would qualify as that. New England will need to play a clean, four quarter game. If they do that, take care of the football and make some big plays, they will position themselves to win this game. We will find out a lot more about this team today.