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Players to Watch: Patriots at Dolphins
Patriots.com's Mike Dussault shares his players to watch during the Patriots Week 2 matchup against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday, September 15, 2019.
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
Josh Gordon, WR: Gordon had three catches for 73 yards, including a 44-yarder, against the Steelers and picked up where he left off last season, when his year came to an unfortunate and abrupt end. Still just 28, Gordon still has high potential and this weekend in Miami is another chance to continue to realize that potential.

Dont'a Hightower, LB: Simply put, Hightower was a beast in the season opener against Pittsburgh, setting the tone with physicality usually reserved for the postseason. Right now he's the heart and soul of the front seven and looks fully healthy and in his prime.

Michael Bennett, DL: Bennett was quick and disruptive against the Steelers even if the stat sheet didn't reflect it. The Dolphins gave up 3 sacks and 12 QB hits last week and Bennett should get in on that action this weekend. Without the worry of keeping Ryan Fitzpatrick in the pocket, Bennett will be able to really get after it.

Tom Brady, QB: How can the GOAT not be one to watch in this one? Brady's had his share of struggles in Miami, including last year's last-second loss to the Dolphins, despite throwing for 358 yards. Brady should be looking to make up for that disappointing loss and send a message about this new season.

Sony Michel, RB: Michel had a surprisingly disappointing start to the season, rushing for just 14 yards on 15 carries. After an intriguing summer it seems like Michel should be due for a breakout game sooner than later. If the Dolphins game plan for the Patriots' passing offense, Michel could go off.

Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB: Fitzpatrick was terrorized in a home-opening loss to the Ravens, completing just 13 passes for 185 yards. He's set to start again, completing the circle of having started for every AFC East team against the Patriots. He gave the Pats problems long ago, can he rekindle that spark?

Kenyan Drake, RB: The talented Dolphin running back had just 12 yards on 4 carries last week and will be looking to bounce back with a respectable performance. For a team that lacks weaponry they absolutely need Drake to find his game and make yardage even when the blocks aren't there.

DeVante Parker, WR: Miami's most talented receiver had 3 catches for 75 yards last week and will need a better, more consistent performance against the vaunted Patriots defense. It's a tall order, as Parker should see plenty of shutdown corner Stephon Gilmore.

Xavien Howard, CB: Howard signed a huge deal this offseason, making him the highest paid cornerback in the league. But after the Miami secondary was torched last week, things get even harder this week. Howard will have his work cut out for him no matter who he covers.

Eric Rowe, CB: After Howard, old Patriots friend Eric Rowe is the other starting corner and was repeatedly beaten last week by the Ravens. The Patriots know Rowe well and that could place a giant target on his back.