The New England Patriots face off against the Pittsburgh Steelers this evening to kick off Week 1 of the NFL season. There are quite a few players that must step up for both teams, but looking at the Patriots in particular there are 5 of them. It is great to have football back on the field and these two teams should open the season up in entertaining fashion. Check out these top 5 players to watch in Week 1.
Pittsburgh and the Patriots have had a very interesting past few seasons and they are going to be extremely motivated to beat each other this evening. New England is favored by most fans, but the Steelers can't be forgotten about despite the fact that star running back Le'Veon Bell is out due to a suspension.
No matter who ends up winning, the football season has kicked off and it is great to have the NFL back.
Which five players in particular must step up for the Patriots this evening in order for them to come away with a big season opening victory?
1. Tom Brady, Quarterback
Everything starts with Tom Brady in New England, especially with all of the drama that surrounded him this past offseason in the entire Deflategate situation. Despite all of the drama that he went through, Brady's suspension was lifted and he is ready to lead his team to a season opening victory. It will be interesting to see what numbers Brady puts up, but he is the key for the Patriots' chances tonight.
2. Rob Gronkowski, Tight End
Obviously, Rob Gronkowski had to be on this list, as he is the top target for Brady heading into tonight's game. New England is going to do everything they can to get an upper hand against the Steelers and there is no one that can stick with the 6-foot-6, 265-pound tight end. Gronkowski should have a mismatch all night long, which should give the Patriots' offense a major advantage.
3. Chandler Jones, Defensive End
Perhaps the least talked about defensive player on the Patriots' roster is talented defensive end Chandler Jones. He has the best chance to make an impact in the pass rush for the Patriots, which is a major key in slowing down the Steelers' aerial attack. Ben Roethlisberger won't be easy to bring down, but simply rushing his decisions can force him to make a mistake.
4. Malcolm Butler, Cornerback
After making the huge play that won the Patriots last year's Super Bowl, Malcolm Butler will now be asked to step up and be a lock down cornerback. Both Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner left town, which leaves Butler as one of the top defensive backs on the roster. He has to come through with a big game to help slow down the Pittsburgh offense, which is going to be much easier said than done.
5. Julian Edelman, Wide Receiver
Last season, Julian Edelman as the number one receiver for Brady and he will be asked to do that once again this year. He will be the second most targeted player for Brady, but could very well be the most valuable player for the New England offense. Pittsburgh has a very solid defense, which is why Edelman must step up and give Brady a consistent target.
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