The Patriots offensive line is a little bit up in the air this week, especially at the tackle position. Nate Solder returned to practice on Thursday but has had a concussion in each of the last two games. Logan Mankins filled in at left tackle for just the second time in his career. Regardless of who lines up at the tackle spots they have a challenge against an impressive Ravens front.

The second-year linebacker is often in the middle of New England's converge in terms of tight ends and running backs. Hightower could be a key factor against an offense that will deploy Dennis Pitta, Ed Dickson and Ray Rice in the short passing game.

The pressure is on New England's quarterback to lead an offense searching for an identity. Brady has to be nearly perfect and make more plays, especially in the red zone, for the Patriots offense to succeed more consistently.

New England's No. 1 corner continues to be limited with a hip injury and was curiously lined up in the slot most of the time in Miami. At his best he could be a factor on the outside against Ravens big-play targets Torrey Smith and Jacoby Jones, but in his current state Talib's role and expectations for success are unclear.

Two of the constant, healthy aspects of the Patriots defense are New England's defensive ends. The duo needs to be more impactful in the pass rush to help the defense get off the field and take pressure off a banged up, struggling secondary. Baltimore has given up 42 sacks this season.

The third-year receiver is the top bird in the Ravens aerial attack. Smith will challenge the New England secondary and with a 17.5-yard average per reception and is capable of a game-changing play from anywhere on the field.

New England's interior offensive line has been shaky of late. The group will have a huge challenge - literally and figuratively - with the Pro Bowl nose tackle Ngata.

The Patriots have been allowing too much pressure of late. The banged up offensive line has a major challenge with the veterans Suggs and Dumervil, who've combined for 18.5 sacks off the edge this season.

The Super Bowl MVP is battling a knee injury and will likely be playing with a brace this week. With little running game to lean on, Flacco is expected to carry the Ravens offense and earn his rather large paycheck against a Patriots pass defense that's been on the ropes in recent weeks.

Coming back from a serious hip injury, the tight end is working his way back into the Baltimore passing attack. When healthy, though, Pitta is Flacco's favorite weapon and the Patriots must expect him to be just that in this rivalry matchup.