Patriots Boost Lineup as DT Milton Williams and CB Carlton Davis III Set to Play Against the Bills This Sunday Night

As the New England Patriots prepare to face the Buffalo Bills on Sunday night, key players are stepping into the spotlight despite recent injury concerns. Defensive tackle Milton Williams (ankle) and cornerback Carlton Davis III (illness) have been cleared to play after being listed as questionable, bolstering the Patriots’ defense ahead of this crucial matchup.

Injury Updates: Key Patriots Players Active for the Big Game

New England’s list of inactive players features starting outside linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson (knee), along with defensive tackle Eric Gregory, guard Caedan Wallace, wide receiver Efton Chism III, and quarterback Tommy DeVito, who will serve as the emergency third quarterback. For the Bills, key inactives include defensive tackle Ed Oliver (ankle), defensive tackle T.J. Sanders (knee), wide receiver Elijah Moore, and cornerback Brandon Codrington, among others.

Defensive Strategy: Milton Williams’ Role in the Game

Milton Williams is a significant asset for the Patriots, having created a robust presence in the defensive line alongside Christian Barmore. Amid managing a minor ankle injury, Williams has proven his worth, ranking second among interior rushers with a 19.2% pass-rush win rate, two sacks, and 11 total pressures. His participation is crucial, especially given the capabilities of Bills quarterback Josh Allen.

• Key Stats for Milton Williams:
  • Pass-Rush Win Rate: 19.2%
  • Sacks: 2
  • Total Pressures: 11

While Williams is active, his snaps may be managed to ensure his health. This could lead the Patriots to utilize defensive end Keion White, who was highly disruptive last season with a 16.2% pressure rate. Centering on situational roles can maintain defensive efficiency, particularly against a Bills offense that leads the NFL in expected points added (EPA) on rushing plays.

Revamped Patriots Secondary: Carlton Davis III Ready to Contribute

Carlton Davis III also returns to the lineup after a battle with illness. His presence, alongside All-Pro cornerback Christian Gonzalez, reinvigorates New England’s secondary. In their last game, the duo effectively minimized opposing offensive threats, leading to an improvement in the Patriots’ defensive statistics.

• Opponent Yards Allowed:
  • With Gonzalez: 5.0 yards per pass attempt
  • Without Gonzalez: 9.0 yards per pass attempt

With both starters healthy, the expectation is to see the anticipated lockdown performance that the Patriots envisioned during the offseason.

Challenges in the Lineup: Addressing Absences on the Defensive Front

Despite the positive news regarding Williams and Davis, the Patriots will miss K’Lavon Chaisson, who has been a key player on the edge. His absence opens up opportunities for Anfernee Jennings and Jahlani Tavai to step up. Chaisson recorded 13 total pressures this season, underscoring the need for effective replacements.

• Potential Replacements:
  • Anfernee Jennings (edge-setter)
  • Keion White (pass-rush specialist)
  • Jahlani Tavai (versatile linebacker)

Offensive Outlook: Patriots Enter Healthy Against Strong Bills Defense

The Patriots’ offense is also primed for action, with quarterback Drake Maye leading a healthy unit against a Bills defense that ranks second in scoring. The divisional matchup is expected to be high-scoring, raising questions concerning snap distributions among key positions like left guard and wide receiver.

Rookie Jared Wilson is set to start at left guard, marking his return from injury, while Efton Chism III remains a healthy scratch, falling behind in a competitive wide receiver lineup. The Patriots will rely on the development of young talents while veterans like Stefon Diggs and DeMario Douglas provide necessary contributions.

Game Day Preview: Patriots vs. Bills at Highmark Stadium

As underdogs by a 7.5-point margin, the Patriots face a formidable opponent in the Bills, who are on a quest for their fifth consecutive AFC East title and maintain a strong home game record. The matchup at Highmark Stadium is set for 8:20 p.m. ET on Sunday night, and the Patriots are determined to bridge the competitive gap in the AFC East under head coach Mike Vrabel’s leadership.

The stage is set for an exciting clash in Buffalo, where strategies will unfold and both teams will strive for victory in the ever-competitive NFL landscape.