Sony Michel, RB: Damien Harris is the engine for the offense, but Michel could still prove to be a vital counterpunch in Miami. The quickest route to victory could be a solid one-two attack from their two backs, as Michel should be rounding back into form. Together, they should lead the Patriots through these final three games.

Devin Asiasi, TE: Asiasi returned to the lineup against the Rams and figures to have a significant role over the last three games of the season with Ryan Izzo landing on IR. After drafting two tight ends this season, the Patriots still haven't gotten much production from the position, but with some experience now adding up, Asiasi could give reason for hope by showing some growth.

Kyle Dugger, DB: Dugger has five-straight starts and has been employed more and more in a traditional safety role, looking quick to react when moved further from the ball. But make no mistake, Dugger will be everywhere and each week he shows signs of improvement. He'll be a player to watch for a long time in New England.

Josh Uche, LB: Uche has emerged into a passing-down role for the defense after being slow to make his debut early in the season. His athleticism, speed and strength have stood out, but can Uche show any early-down potential? Like all the young players on the roster, his role could grow here in the final three weeks. He's just scratching the surface.

Anfernee Jennings, LB: Jennings has been thrown into the fire this season and he fits the traditional mold of a versatile Patriots linebacker, who has the length and strength to play inside and outside. He's taken some lumps early on, but that experience should start to pay dividends. Jennings has three-down potential.

Tua Tagovailoa, QB: The rookie first-round pick is 4-2 in his first six starts, throwing nine touchdowns to one interception, while completing 62.4 percent of his passes. It has been an excellent start for the rookie, what has been smart and efficient with the ball. He'll have a tall task against the Patriots with a number of his favorite weapons dealing with injuries.

Lynn Bowden, Jr: WR: With injuries hitting the receiving corps hard, Bowden has emerged as the favorite target left standing, leading the Dolphins with seven catches for 82 yards against the Chiefs, including a long of 22 yards. He had just five catches prior to that game and could be called on to step up again vs. the Patriots.

Emmanuel Ogbah, DE: Ogbah leads the Dolphins with eight sacks and 20 quarterback hits, all career highs after spending three seasons with the Browns and one with the Chiefs. Ogbah has emerged a disruptive force for Miami and will be a key matchup for the Patriots offensive line.

Xavien Howard, CB: Howard leads the NFL with nine interceptions, including an outstanding pick last week against the Chiefs. One of the top cover corners in the league, he'll be a big thorn in the passing attack's side as the Pats look to get Cam Newton on track through the air.

Kyle Van Noy, LB: The former Patriot missed last week with an injury, but is a good bet to return against the Pats. Van Noy is second on the team with six sacks and is poised to build on even his best seasons with New England. He had a sack and a QB hit in the Week 1 matchup to go with five tackles.