Cam Newton, QB: New England's new starting quarterback will have all eyes on him in the opener. Will Newton provide his own unique spin on the Patriots offense? How well has he assimilated after just two months with the team? Is he fully healthy? Newton will be the centerpiece of the game for the Pats as they set expectations for the season.

Stephon Gilmore, CB: The reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year had a down outing against the Dolphins in Week 17 last season and should once again have the critical task of shutting down Miami's favorite target – DeVante Parker. Gilmore continues to lead one of the best secondaries in the league.

Ja'Whaun Bentley, LB: The new captain was a role player last season but after departures and opt-outs he's suddenly an important player in the middle of the defense. Bentley's work against the run could be a critical component for the Patriots chances at shutting down Miami.

Sony Michel, RB: The third-year back looked fresh and fast after coming off of the PUP list. With Damien Harris on IR, Michel figures to get a fair share of carries. Can he bounce back, now with fullback Jakob Johnson blocking for him? A rejuvenated Michel could make things a lot easier on the Patriots passing offense, but he'll surely have some help from Rex Burkhead and James White.

N'Keal Harry, WR: The Patriots offense can count on Julian Edelman, but after him they'll need the second-year receivers to emerge and no one has more of a spotlight on them than Harry. The 2019 first-round pick will have the chance to get his season off to a great start and provide hope for a passing offense that has mostly unproven receivers.

Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB: The Patriots have faced Fitzpatrick more times at quarterback than anyone except Peyton Manning. Yes, he's 3-10 in those games, but when he avoids multiple turnovers he's often been able to move the ball against the New England defense. If he plays safe with the ball, this should be a close game.

Jordan Howard, RB: The Dolphins could choose to play it safe and ride new running backs Howard and Matt Breida, taking a page from the Titans gameplan from last year's Wild Card game. If that's the case, expect Howard to get plenty of work attacking the middle of the Patriots defense.

DeVante Parker, WR: It will be hard for Chan Gailey and Fitzpatrick to resist throwing the ball, it's what they do, and Miami's chances could come down to whether Parker has another game in him like he did last time these team's faced each other.

Kyle Van Noy, LB: The former Patriot was named captain and will be a critical playmaker for the Dolphins up front when it comes to countering Cam Newton. Van Noy's athleticism is a plus and he should garner plenty of pass rush attention on third downs.

Christian Wilkins, DL: Miami's 2019 first-rounder is a stout presence along the interior of the line. If the Patriots wish to get their ground game going, they're going to have to go through Wilkins, who should be looking for a significant jump in his second season.