Mac Jones, QB: As Jones enters the fourth game of his career, he's completing 67.5 percent of his passes and has thrown two touchdowns to three interceptions. He took 11 hits against the Saints as the Patriots pass protection must be much be better against a Bucs defensive front that can dominate, even without some of their key pieces. Jones' progression continues to be one of the main storylines of the season as he gets ready to face off against Tom Brady.

Jonnu Smith, TE: It was a game to forget for Smith against the Saints but that doesn't change Smith's solid training camp and future in New England. He said all the right things this week about putting the disappointing performance behind him, but now he must do it against Tampa Bay's defense, one that has shown some vulnerabilities against the pass. Expect Smith to get on track sooner than later and demonstrate the kind of playmaking skill he's capable of.

Jakobi Meyers, WR: Meyers leads the team with 19 catches through three games, as he's been the model of consistency since taking over a full-time offensive role in 2020 after Julian Edelman went down. He should continue to draw more and more attention from defenses, especially on third down, where he's been Mac Jones' favorite target.

Christian Barmore, DL: Patriots fans will remember some of the times that Tom Brady got off his game and they usually involved a chaotic internal pass rush that never let Brady get comfortable. Christian Barmore has shown some potential to be that kind of rusher in his first three games, narrowly missing the first sack of his career against the Saints. Barmore should be unleashed to wreak havoc against the Bucs line this week, he's already one of the toughest one-on-one matchups on the Patriots defense.

Matt Judon, LB: There have been fits and starts for the Patriots defense this season, but Matt Judon is one player who has gotten off to a good start, leading the team with 3.5 sacks after a strong performance against the Saints. The Patriots will need Judon at his best against the Bucs because if Barmore and company can't get Brady off the spot, they'll need Judon to get to him around the edge.

Tom Brady, QB: After winning a Super Bowl in Tampa, Tom Brady returns to New England for one of the most anticipated matchups in NFL history. What will Belichick cook up for the quarterback that he coached for 20 seasons? One thing is for sure, beating Brady takes everything a team has -- a 60-minute, aggressive and mistake-free effort. And even then, Brady can pull out seemingly impossible wins. The Patriots defense will need their best effort in over two seasons to contain the GOAT.

Rob Gronkowski, TE: Rob Gronkowski took 2019 off after winning Super Bowl 53 with the Pats, coming through with a clutch catch that set up the game-winning touchdown. After returning and winning another Super Bowl with Tampa Bay in 2020, Gronk looks even more rejuvenated in 2021, already grabbing four touchdowns. Adrian Phillips figures to be a key piece of the matchup.

Chris Godwin, WR: Godwin leads the Bucs attack with 19 catches and two touchdowns through Tampa's first three games. The big receiver will present several challenges to the Patriots' secondary, who could've really used Stephon Gilmore to match up with Godwin, Mike Evans and Gronk. It's a 'pick your poison' situation but Godwin gets the slight edge, especially on third down and in the red zone.

Shaq Barrett, OLB: Barrett has just one sack after being a big part in the Bucs dominant Super Bowl effort in their win over the Chiefs. While they haven't picked up where they left off, they've faced three good veteran quarterbacks with a talented array of weaponry. Against New England's rookie quarterback and inconsistent offensive line, Barrett will look to get his season on track.

Antoine Winfield Jr., S: The undersized but tough and talented second-year safety is all over the place for the Bucs defense, currently ranking third with 13 solo tackles. Winfield will be heavily involved in the Bucs defensive gameplan and getting around him will be a big key for the Patriots' offensive attack.