New England Patriots: Five Takeaways From 43-17 Win Over Cincinnati Bengals

Oct 5, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Darrelle Revis (24) tackles Cincinnati Bengals running back

(32) during the third quarter at Gillette Stadium. New England Patriots defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 43-17. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

5. Star players shine

When this teamed was formed over the course of the offseason, we were counting on their star players to come through. Whether it was Vince Wilfork anchoring the defense, Rob Gronkowski powering the offense, Darrelle Revis adding an extra element to the secondary, or Tom Brady being Tom Brady, we knew they had to play well for this team to succeed.

After four weeks of mediocre play, the big guns finally stepped up, and did their job. Brady was precise and machine-like all game long, Wilfork anchored an excellent defensive effort, Gronk went off, and Revis shut down the second best receiver in the NFL. If these players consistently do this week in, and week out, the Pats are going to be just fine.

Now, obviously there are other key elements to this team, with the biggest one being the offensive line, but to get to the next level, the stars need to shine for New England like they did against the Bengals.