Throwback Pats take on Texans

Antonio Gibson – With Rhamondre Stevenson’s status in question due to a foot injury, Gibson could have to carry a heavy load on Sunday. Gibson has been outstanding in a limited role so far, he’s already within 58 yards of his 2023 rushing total for the Commanders and has made some explosive plays that the Patriots desperately needed. Can he still deliver with a larger workload? It won’t be easy for him going up against a stout Texans run defense that ranks fifth in the NFL in DVOA, but it’s clear the Patriots need to be able to keep the pressure off Drake Maye , if they want to keep the pressure off Drake Maye Ball consistently with Gibson.

Pop Douglas – After a quiet first two games in which he caught just two passes for 12 yards, Douglas is starting to come off the bench and could get a boost from the arrival of Maye. Over the last three games, Douglas has 16 catches for 141 yards but has shown a consistent ability to separate and lead. If Maye can get the ball out quickly, Douglas could get a lot of the rookie quarterback’s targets, while Ja’Lynn Polk, who Maye spent a lot of time working with after practice, is another receiver who should be heavily involved.

Marte Mapu – Mapu was one of the biggest bright spots in the Miami loss. He came into the game after missing almost all of training camp, playing start to start, playing different positions while also calling the defense. It was an impressive performance from the second-year defenseman. It’s exciting to imagine how Mapu could develop if his heavy workload continues. The Patriots defense needs a player like him, especially given the uncertainty surrounding their starting safety status.

Joshua Uche — Uche was part of a better third-down performance against the Dolphins, picking up his second sack of the season and will be a key pass rusher off the edge for New England. After a stat-free start against the Bengals, Uche now has two sacks in three games as defensive game plans continue to evolve and take advantage of the extremely athletic Uche. His ability to bend the edge remains his greatest strength and the Patriots will need him to challenge Houston’s tackles and tackle CJ Stroud.

Christian González — The Patriots are on a break with budding superstar Nico Collins landing on IR, and that would likely mean Gonzalez will have to face veteran Stefon Diggs in some critical spots. Gonzalez proved that his shortened rookie season was no exception. He has been a bright spot on defense as his blistering speed and fluid movement skills continue to be a big part of the defense. Against Houston’s vaunted passing attack, the Pats will need Gonzalez more than ever.