These are four New England Patriots that the Buffalo Bills need to gameplan for in Week 16.
In recent history, when the New England Patriots and the Buffalo Bills face off at this point of the season the Bills are looking towards the offseason and draft position while the Patriots have locked up a playoff spot and are trying to move up or hold onto the top seed in the conference.
This year though, the roles are reversed as the Buffalo Bills have locked up the AFC East while the New England Patriots are officially eliminated from the playoffs.
While the Patriots may not have much to play for, they can’t be taken lightly as they have players on both sides of the ball that the Buffalo Bills have to gameplan for in Week 16.
Adrian Phillips
With no Stephon Gilmore, there is a case to be made that Adrian Phillips is the best player on this New England Patriots defense. He may not be the household name of some other players but the versatility he brings to this defense is what sets him apart.
This season, Phillips has played over 75% of the defensive snaps and leads the Patriots in total tackles with 101. This total is 18 more tackles than the next highest player on this defense. He also has two interceptions and one sack.
The way Bill Belichick moves Adrian Phillips around, whether it’s in the box or back as a safety, creates those opportunities for him to be close to the ball carrier and make the play. He is a player that is going to make an impact and the coaching staff will need to figure out a way to limit what he is able to do against them.