The Patriots are putting their finishing touches on their preparations for Sunday's showdown in Pittsburgh against the Steelers sans Ben Roethlisberger.
Leading things off today … ESPNBoston.com says Bill Belichick may be done with tablets but some of his players are not. Also, they take a look at the Patriots recent foray into the linebacker market, which is an indication of injuries at the position.
The Boston Globe looks at the Patriots return units. Also, the defense is looking to improve on third down after starting the season as one of the worst units in the league in that department.
The Boston Herald says the Patriots are thrilled with the full-strength return of Rob Gronkowski. Julian Edelman isn't concerned with his slow start to the season. Roethlisberger's absence takes away some of the buzz from this matchup. The notebook leads with Shaq Mason vowing to protect and serve Tom Brady.
The Providence Journal chats with Jimmy Garoppolo, who is healthy and waiting to prove himself again. The notebook leads with a practice update as well as some transactions.MassLive.com has Steelers defensive coordinator Keith Butler talking about the Patriots penchant for pushing the envelope.
CSNNE.com talks with former NFL executive Merton Hanks, who takes a critical look at the league’s new hierarchy.
In Pittsburgh, the Post-Gazette says the pressure is on offensive coordinator Todd Haley as he goes against the Patriots with backup Landry Jones.
