Stephon Gilmore, CB – After shutting down Amari Cooper, Gilmore is making a push for Defensive MVP this season. This week he'll see another one of the best receivers in the league in DeAndre Hopkins and get another chance to make his case as the best cornerback in the league.

Tom Brady, QB – Brady and the offense are still looking for a breakout game but showed good signs despite being shorthanded against Dallas in a monsoon. With Mohamed Sanu and Phillip Dorsett expected to return to action this will be our first look at the 2019 Patriots will all their big pieces in place. Brady could be primed to go off.

Isaiah Wynn, OL – Wynn had a couple early bumps against the Cowboys but was generally solid in his return to action. His footwork and hand placement are already beyond what you'd hope for from a player with just three career starts, as Wynn looks like he will really help the Patriots offense. He's an exciting offensive lineman to watch which is saying a lot.

Sony Michel, RB – Michel found some consistent success last week, with some decisive fourth-quarter runs that helped seal the win against the Cowboys. If he can build on that performance the entire Patriots offense will benefit. Michel is the biggest x-factor on offense and could use another successful game before facing the Chiefs next week, when he'll be even more critical.

Jonathan Jones, DB – Gilmore has stolen a lot of the headlines this year but Jones has continued to improve in his fourth season. He's grown into a valuable matchup option who can do just about everything in the secondary. He figures to be a big piece of defending Deshaun Watson and his ability to run with the ball.

Deshaun Watson, QB – Watson is off to another solid season, throwing 20 touchdowns and rushing for five more. With their top corner expected to eliminate Watson's top target, it will be up to the defensive front seven to keep the quarterback contained and force him to beat them with ancillary options. Watson's athleticism will be a good AFC tune up.

DeAndre Hopkins, WR – Hopkins is one of the most dynamic receivers in the NFL, capable of making plays even when he seems fully covered. Hopkins vs. Gilmore will be one of the must-watch matchups of the weekend and likely where the game is won or lost.

Will Fuller, WR – Fuller is the true x-factor for the Texans offense but has had trouble staying healthy. His speed is the perfect complement to Hopkins and opens up a lot more options in the passing game. The Patriots have been lucky to avoid the Fuller-Hopkins duo, as Fuller has missed three of the last four games against New England. They'll need a plan for Fuller.

Duke Johnson, RB – The Texans' receiving back has 25 catches as is averaging almost 10 yards-per-catch. The Patriots defense has had occasional problems with backs catching the ball out of the backfield, especially in the screen game. Johnson is a good safety valve for Watson that will need to be eliminated.

Carlos Hyde, RB – The Texans power back has 836 rushing yards and four touchdowns and figures to get most of the early-down work. Danny Shelton and Lawrence Guy have had outstanding seasons and will need to control the line of scrimmage to prevent Hyde from getting going and putting the Texans in favorable down and distances.