Bedard: Patriots will try to slow down Josh Allen, Bills without Gonzalez, Barmore; Vrabel on Maye's shoulder; Brown at RG
Boston Sports Journal • • sports
Key Points:
- The New England Patriots will be without key defenders CB Christian Gonzalez and DT Christian Barmore for their upcoming game against the Buffalo Bills, making an already tough matchup even more challenging.
- Head coach Bill Vrabel emphasized focusing on readying available players, mentioning increased playing time for Charles Woods and versatility from Marcus Jones and Karon Prunty to fill defensive gaps.
- The Patriots may rely more on base defensive formations to counter the Bills' multiple tight end sets, with Jones expected to cover the Bills' taller receiver Keon Coleman.
- Seven Patriots players remain questionable due to various injuries, while the Bills also have key players like cornerback Christian Benford listed as questionable.
- Vrabel expressed frustration over confusion regarding quarterback Drake Maye's shoulder injury status, clarifying that the team is strictly following injury report protocols despite Maye practicing fully without limitations.
