Patriots versus Bills: kick-off a new beginning

The New England Patriots always seem to be in a state of change. Every year there is turnover of players and coaches and this year is no different. The number of coaching and player changes on the roster are too many to worry about now as the big day approaches when the Patriots open up the season versus the Buffalo Bills on Monday night football.With every change there is the expectation of improvement and concern certain areas may take a step back. Since 2007, the defense has not performed as one would expect from a Bill Belichick team and losing pro bowlers and team captains such as Tedy Brushi, Mike Vrabel, Rodney Harrison and Richard Seymour in one year would cause even the most hardcore of those of us sipping the koolaid in Patriot Nation, choke a little bit when offering up 'In Bill We Trust'. Starting off playing the Bills when they release their offensive coordinator and the suspension of running back Marshawn Lynch may seem like a bonus for the defense, however, the Bills have picked up a dynamic receiver in Terrell Owens and also are utilizing the no huddle offense.These two simple things do cause me some concern as the Patriots were terrible last year pressuring the quarterback and that left our defense back exposed in many situations and teams could throw on the Patriots. This preseason has not proved to be a good start to the revamped secondary and with newcomer Shawn Springs not playing during the preseason due to injury, we are not sure he is the answer to stop TO as expected.What else to watch for on defense:The Patriots defense. The defense have has turnover and lost starters on the line, linebacker, cornerback and safety positions. Players are getting used to their roles and with less 3 down players, there will be more rotating on and off the field. The Patriots may have problems with the Bills no huddle offense when needing to make substitutions and also players may get tired towards the end of the game if the Patriots offense is not able to score. The defense has been using mostly a 4-3 package during the preseason and without Lynch in the line up how concerned are the Pats in stopping Fred Jackson or TO? The defensive line up and pressure on QB Trent Edwards early in the game may tell the tale.TO and who is covering him. If Springs is out of action or is not 100% then Leigh Bodden will have to cover TO. The rest of the defensive backs will have fun trying to contain TO and also not give up big plays to Lee Evans and Josh Reed.Patriots offense:Keeping Brady on his feet and clean. The OL, RBs, and TEs have to do their jobs blocking and protecting Tom Brady. Some believe the Patriots will run the ball more in order to allow Brady to get back into NFL mode. He has commented he is fine, But the Bills defense have historically beaten up on Brady (remember the strip sack for a TD a few years back?).Where is Wes Welker? He hasn't been seen on the field in a while and a few people are concerned since the Pats dumped 3rd/4th receiver Greg Lewis. He should be out there for the opener on Monday night football. We should look to see if Edelmann is dressed to play as he has also been injured, but may work on special teams and get a shot (along side Sam Aiken) at WR.Taylor, Maroney, Morris or the Law firm..... Who heats up with the rock in their pocket and helps the Pats control the ball and the clock early and often? Faulk as always will be there when needed to block, catch or run for the first down...How terrific is Tom after coming back from surgery and getting hit consistently for four quarters.Special Teams:The Bills have been the best team for special teams play for a long time. The Patriot shave had a turnover at coach and captain and going up against the best will let us fans know where we stand.Predictions:Brady 3 TDs, 342 ydsMoss 2 TDs, 89 ydsTaylor 1 TD, 78 ydsBaker 1 TD catch, 34 ydsPatriots 31 : Bills 17IN BILL WE TRUST!!