Storyline: The Patriots host the Bills today in what is the final game of Tom Brady’s four game suspension. Brady’s return couldn’t becoming at a better time as both Jimmy Garoppolo and Jacoby Brissett are banged up. 

The Patriots did announce this morning that they are starting Jacoby Brissett at quarterback. Brissett is playing with a banged up thumb so it’ll be interesting to see how much they throw with him.

Here are my five keys to today’s game for the Patriots.

1. Keep Pounding: With Jacoby Brissett starting and not 100%, it is imperative that the Patriots continue to run the football. Expect a heavy dose of LeGarrette Blount once again as the Patriots will look to protect the injured Brissett. 

2. Deal With the Pressure: Rex Ryan’s defenses are known for pressure. Expect Ryan to blitz Brissett on every down today as the Bills will look to rattle the young quarterback and try to generate turnovers.

3. Get the Other Receivers Involved: With Julian Edelman backing up Brissett today, look for offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels to get the other receivers more involved today in an effort to protect Edelman and keep him healthy in case he has to play quarterback. 

It’s not a bad idea to get Gronk, Chris Hogan, Danny Amendola, Martellus Bennett and James White more touches in the passing game. 

4. Defense, Defense Defense! The defense played at a championship level last week against the Texans. They’ll need to play at a similar level today if they want to win this game. They must plug gaps against the run game and contain Tyrod Taylor.

5. Survive: Tom Brady returns at 12:01 tomorrow morning. The Patriots just need to survive this game. Win it, come out of it healthy and get ready for the Browns and the return of the GOAT. 

Prediction: Patriots 24 Bills 14: You think I’m picking against the Patriots after last week? Yeah, I don’t think so. Despite being short handed at quarterback, Bill Belichick and his staff will find a way to win this game. Pats go to 4-0.