We’re only a few days away from the start of the NFL season, which means it’s almost a new season for the New England Patriots.

With a new head coach, quarterback, and defensive-look more questions are present for New Englanders more than ever. The Pats will play the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday at 1 PM on the road. The Bengals will have Joe Burrow, Ja’marr Chase and other good players which makes for a tough challenge for Jerod Mayo and his players. However, any team can win on any given Sunday. So here are some keys for the Patriots if they want to win Week 1.

Jacoby Brissett play like an NFL vet and limit mistakes

Consider this key to be a two-in-one. It was announced last week that Jacoby Brissett has gotten the starting job over Drake Maye, which I’m in support of for multiple reasons. The Patriots offense is far from impressive when read on paper, their defense is where the power lies. If Brissett can manage the game by throwing to the check downs, making accurate throws, not taking sacks, and not turning over the ball then the Patriots have a shot in finding themselves in the game with a couple minutes left.

Stay on schedule offensively

This point shares off of the first one. Brissett can’t take yards for losses on sacks. The running game can’t go for negative yards, the Pats can’t be in third and long positions because that makes them vulnerable for a turnover. If the Pats are able to stay at reasonable down and distance, then that allows play-action, deep throws, which forces the defense to stay balanced.

Good field position from defense and special teams

Now that the cat is out the bag on the Patriots having a less than stellar offense, if the Pats are going to score, field position will be important. I can see the Patriots driving the down the ball 90 yards and capping it off with a touchdown. Sure, they can get some first downs and a couple 20+ yard plays, but on Sunday the Pats will have to rely on the special teams and defense to aid the offense. Rhamondre Stevenson can run hard and get the first down in short yardage. Hunter Henry should be the top target in the red zone. But as far as the plays that are 1st and 10, the Patriots may struggle.