The Patriots' Week 16 matchup with the Bills couldn't happen at a worse time. They're coming off an embarrassing loss to the Cardinals in Week 15, a game in which they very easily should have been able to win. They will now face a divisional rival on track to close out the year undefeated over the last three games.
Then there's the MVP campaign by quarterback Josh Allen, who has been beyond impressive over the last few weeks, making for an even worse time for a deteriorating Patriots defense to need a comeback effort.
Making matters worse, they have to face Buffalo again in two weeks, with the only silver lining being it will happen at Gillette Stadium.
It would be great to see the Patriots show some sort of improvement on Sunday despite the massive odds stacked against them, especially after the masterclass of what not to do seen last week in the desert. It might be asking too much at this point in the year, even more so with some players who won't be on the field, but it would be nice to see something positive as the 2025 offseason nears.
Full Inactives List for the New England Patriots
PLAYER NAME | POSITION |
|---|---|
JaMycal Hasty | RB |
Marcus Jones | CB |
Jabrill Peppers | S |
Joe Milton III | QB |
Tyrese Robinson | G |
Lecitus Smith | G |
Key Absences and Their Impact
Offensive Impact
Fortunately, the loss of JaMycal Hasty won't significantly impact the Patriots' offense since he is the third-string running back. The coaching staff also made sure to make up for his loss if they needed him by signing Terrell Jennings to the 53-man roster for Sunday's game.
Defensive Impact
The defense will feel the loss of Marcus Jones, as the secondary has been a problem this year outside of cornerback Christian Gonzalez. Veteran Jonathan Jones hasn't performed up to his usual standard, creating more opportunities for Jones to really step up, and for the most part, he has.
With him sidelined for this game, expectations for Jonathan Jones and Alex Austin will be much higher, especially going against a high-powered offense like the Bills. Gonzalez can only do so much by locking down one receiver, so they'll need to make an effort to pull their weight a lot more.
Special Teams Impact
Because Jones has been the team's primary punt returner this year, it's pretty significant not to have him on the field in a game expected to result in many punts for the Patriots. He has been consistently productive and has put the offense in a better position countless times, which won't necessarily be the case in Week 16.
Full Inactives List for the Buffalo Bills
PLAYER NAME | POSITION |
|---|---|
Curtis Samuel | WR |
Damar Hamlin | CB |
Taylor Rapp | SS |
Rasul Douglas | CB |
Matt Milano | OLB |
Tylan Grable | T |
Dewayne Carter | DT |