Patriots Face Pivotal AFC East Clash vs. Bills with Key Injuries Looming
Week 15 brings more than just another divisional matchup for the New England Patriots - it brings a shot at reclaiming the AFC East crown for the first time since 2019. Standing in their way?
A Buffalo Bills team hungry for revenge after a narrow 23-20 loss earlier this season. But this rematch won’t look quite like the first meeting, especially for New England, as injuries continue to reshape the roster.
Patriots' Offensive Line Depth Tested Again
The offensive line has already taken a hit with starting left tackle Will Campbell sidelined due to a Grade 3 MCL sprain. He was placed on injured reserve following the injury and won’t be available for this critical matchup.
While the team benefited from a late-season bye, which gave Campbell some recovery time, his absence this week still looms large. Protecting rookie quarterback Drake Maye becomes even more crucial against a Bills defense known for bringing pressure.
Harold Landry's Status in Doubt
The biggest concern heading into Sunday may be on the defensive side of the ball. Linebacker Harold Landry, one of the Patriots’ key offseason acquisitions, was downgraded in practice this week with a knee injury. After being limited on Wednesday, Landry didn’t participate at all on Thursday - never a good sign this late in the week.
Landry has been a disruptive force all season, leading the team with 7.5 sacks and racking up 46 total tackles. His familiarity with head coach Mike Vrabel’s system, dating back to their years together in Tennessee, has made him a foundational piece of the defense. Losing him against a dynamic Bills offense would be a major blow.
Next Men Up: Jennings and Ponder
If Landry can’t go, the Patriots will likely turn to Anfernee Jennings and Elijah Ponder to help fill the void.
Jennings, a third-round pick back in 2020, has had a quiet season under Vrabel. He’s appeared in 10 of the team’s 13 games, but hasn’t carved out a consistent role. This could be the opportunity he’s been waiting for - a chance to step into a bigger spotlight and prove he can be more than just a rotational piece.
Then there’s Elijah Ponder, the undrafted rookie who’s quietly been climbing the depth chart. He saw limited action early in the season, but his snap count has been trending in the right direction.
From 25% in Week 7 to 53% in Week 13, Ponder’s workload has steadily increased, signaling growing trust from the coaching staff. If Landry is out, don’t be surprised if Ponder sees another bump in playing time - and possibly makes a statement in the process.
A Must-Win with Division Title Implications
Make no mistake - this is a massive game for New England. A win not only gives them the season sweep over Buffalo, it also locks up the AFC East.
But doing that without their starting left tackle and potentially their top pass rusher? That’s a tall order.
Still, this is the kind of game where teams define their identity. The Patriots will need to be sharp from the opening whistle, especially with a banged-up roster. And while New England has its fair share of injury concerns, Buffalo isn’t entering the game at full strength either - which could open the door for Drake Maye to have one of his most complete performances yet.
Sunday’s matchup isn’t just about playoff positioning. It’s about grit, depth, and seizing the moment. The Patriots have a chance to remind everyone they’re still a force in the AFC - but they’ll have to earn it, the hard way.