Kicking off
The Patriots had largely skirted the injury bug - until now.
Within a span of two weeks, the Patriots have had to put star defensive lineman Milton Williams on IR, while also losing two starters on the offensive line.
Both left tackle Will Campbell (knee) and Jared Wilson (ankle) were taken off on carts during the Patriots win over the Cincinnati Bengals.
Wilson suffered a high ankle sprain and isn't likely to play in Monday Night's game against the New York Giants.
Campbell, meanwhile, definitely won't be playing against the Giants, and will be out the next four games after being placed on IR. He is reportedly dealing with an MCL sprain.
Add in injuries to defensive tackle Khyiris Tonga (chest) and special teams ace Brenden Schooler (ankle), and the Patriots are going to be up against it against the Giants, prior to having a much-needed bye.
With a 10-2 record, and five games remaining, the Patriots are still in good shape for making the postseason.
They just can't afford to go into a tailspin down the stretch. They aren't a team that's rife with depth, but the backups - Vederian Lowe, Ben Brown - are going to have to hold the fort on the left side of the line.
The Giants are first up, and after the bye, it'll be Buffalo and Baltimore.
“It’s really next man mentality, next man up,” Lowe said earlier in the week. “I’m ready to go. Go in there, produce and do my job. That’s what coach says each and every week, prepare like you’re a starter, no matter what your role is. Everyone has a role, and you always have to prepare to play. Seeing that, I really feel for Will. He works really hard. He grinds. He’s a great player. I have to be ready to go in there and perform.”
The Giants have a pretty fierce pass rush, led by Brian Burns, whose 13 sacks are second to Cleveland's Myles Garrett.
No doubt offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels will scheme in help for Lowe as needed. But it's a critical stretch for the Patriots, who need to continue to do what they do best - find a way to win.
Here's some clips from the week:
