Week 17 Preview: Patriots at Bills

Well, it’s do or die time.  If the Patriots lose on Sunday, they will be eliminated from playoff contention.  A win keeps them alive and in a need of a little help to make the playoffs.

In their first meting, the Patriots soundly defeated the Bills 20-10.  And although the score didn’t really suggest it, the Patriots dominated this meeting.

While on paper, the Patriots should easily handle the Bills.  However, the Bills have nothing to play for and that could make them dangerous, as they will be looking to play spoiler.

Players to Watch – Bills

Fred Jackson, RB #22 – Jackson has taken on a big role in supplementing Marshawn Lynch this season.  He has played great football, is fast, elusive, and will see his touches throughout the day.

Reggie Corner, DB, #27 – Corner the corner had four deflected passes last week against Denver.  The little 5-9 corner may be matched against Welker in the slot, so he will be interesting to watch.

Players to Watch – Patriots

Randy Moss, WR, #81 – I usually don’t put the star players up here, but for some reason I’m sensing a big week from Randy Moss.  Don’t ask me why, it’s just one of those things.

Gary Guyton, LB, #59 – Guyton has been a starter since both Pierre Woods and Tedy Bruschi went down… that was, until he got injured.  After struggling at outside linebacker, it will be interesting to see if Woods can get back in the groove of things defensively.

Key to the Game

Jump out on top quickly – The Bills have been poor at scoring in the first quarter, while the Patriots have been pretty good in that category.  The key will be to continue this trend, so that the Bills can never get any hope, and the Patriots can put their foot on the Bills’ neck.

Prediction: Patriots 34 Bills 17

I see the Patriots closing out the season in pretty dominating fashion.  While the Bills may make things pretty interesting, I think the Patriots have too much to play for to lose this game.