The rookie punter surprisingly beat out Zoltan Mesko for the job. He'll make his first impression in Buffalo, assuming the Patriots have to punt.

This is the first chance Amendola will have to carve out his own legend in New England as he replaces Wes Welker in the slot. He's been dealing with a groin injury, but should find plenty of room to work against a banged up Bills secondary.

Connolly spent the summer working back from offseason shoulder surgery. He got his most reps in the preseason finale, but it's worth watching his health/conditioning against a Bills defensive line that includes some impressive individual talent.

Jones had an impressive preseason and looks poised for a big impact in his second season. No better time for that begin than in the season opener.

The best of New England's free agent class this offseason, Kelly showed the ability to get after the quarterback in the preseason. Kelly will be a big boost next to Vince Wilfork, against the run and the pass.

The middle linebacker is entering a contract year looking to prove his worth. The Bills hope to get C.J. Spiller going on the ground and Spikes will be a key cog in making sure that doesn't happen.

The undrafted rookie tight end has created quite a buzz for himself this summer. With Rob Gronkowski unlikely to play, Sudfeld has a chance to show off his hands and his route running in Buffalo.

New England's No. 1 corner should see a good deal of talkative Bills target Stevie Johnson in Week 1. Let's see if the cover corner can man up and shut up the Buffalo playmaker.

The undrafted receiver was the most consistent of the rookie pass catchers this summer and should be a focal point of the passing game on opening day.

The third-year running back takes over the role as New England's third-down/change-of-pace/passing back. He's got a ton of potential and now should get plenty of chances to show it off, beginning in Buffalo.