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3 Most Important Matchups for the Patriots in Week 16 Game vs Bills

By Steven Kubitza

Several key matchups stand out for the Patriots on Saturday against the Bills.
Several key matchups stand out for the Patriots on Saturday against the Bills. / Brett Carlsen/Getty Images

The New England Patriots have dominated the Buffalo Bills for years. Now the Bills are looking to take down the mighty Pats in Foxborough in a late-season game with AFC East implications we thought would never be the case.

The first matchup saw a close 16-10 finish in Buffalo, and several matchups this time around stand out as key ones to watch.

3. Tom Brady vs Bills Secondary

Brady struggled to do much the first time around.
Brady struggled to do much the first time around. / Brett Carlsen/Getty Images

Brady struggled in Week 4 against Buffalo. He wasn't sacked, but he only threw for 150 yards on a dismal 18-of-39 passing day. He was picked off once and his 45.9 passing rating is still his worst of the season. It was also one of only two games this year in which he didn't throw a touchdown pass. He has to figure out the disguises this time around.

2. Stephon Gilmore vs John Brown

Brown had success against Gilmore in the first matchup.
Brown had success against Gilmore in the first matchup. / Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images

Brown had 69 yards in Week 4 and has been the most consistent receiver for Buffalo. He's the clear top target for Josh Allen, and Stephen Gilmore has an even tougher task now that Allen appears to have gradually improved over the past few months. Brown was limited against Baltimore and Dallas, so Gilmore surely watched that tape for ways to stop the short but talented receiver.

1. Kyle Van Noy vs Right Side of Bills Line

Van Noy dominated the Bills the first time around.
Van Noy dominated the Bills the first time around. / Wesley Hitt/Getty Images

Van Noy had two sacks and eight total tackles in the first meeting between the two teams. He led a defense that sacked Josh Allen four times and Matt Barkley once. Allen can scramble, so it will be up to Van Noy to bring pressure and also contain the mobile quarterback. Pressure on Allen will be crucial to make him uncomfortable in the pocket and perhaps force an interception or two.