Tom Brady
The Eagles do a good job of limiting opposing WRs, but that is no reason to bench Brady. Expect the Pats to feature the TEs and RBs out of the backfield, allowing Brady to put up respectable numbers. Something close to 260 yards and 2-3 scores.
BenJarvus Green-Ellis/Danny Woodhead/Shane Vereen/Kevin Faulk/Stevan Ridely
Figuring out New England’s backfield is a bit like playing Russian Roulette, but BJGE has been the clear lead horse and commands most of the goal line touches. Figure him for 70 yards and a decent shot at a score. With bye weeks over, I wouldn’t roster any other backs besides Woodhead and Vereen in the event that The Law Firm goes down with an injury. The only other back that may be worth a spot start this week is Woodhead since he’ll be on the field a lot due to his pass protection prowess, but he is a flex play at best.
Wes Welker/Deion Branch
The Eagles have a trio of elite cornerbacks, but I anticipate the Pats moving Welker around to create some favorable matchups. He won’t light the world on fire, but a 5-catch, 80-yard game is easily within reach. I’d steer clear of Branch this week. The Eagles like to bring pressure from a variety of packages, and the intermediate routes Branch usually runs will likely not be open.
Rob Gronkowski/Aaron Hernandez
Gronkowski is separating himself from the pack in the discussion of the league’s best tight ends. No linebacker or safety for Philly can cover him, so expect him to reel in 6 balls for 100 yards and a score. Hernandez should see the field often on Sunday, and I think you can count on him for 3-4 catches, 60 yards and a score as well.
Stephen Gostkowski
3-4 XPs, 2-3 FGs. Good week to use him, particularly if the weather is favorable.
New England Defense/Special Teams
The Eagles have been sloppy this season, and a number of their skill position players are dinged up. If Philly is missing Vick or Maclin, I’d feel comfortable using them as a borderline option and hoping for 17 points allowed and a combined total of 5-6 sacks and turnovers. If both players are expected to play, I’d temper expectations to 23 points allowed, 1-2 turnovers and 2 sacks.
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