Shaq Thompson

Bills CB Christian Benford and LB Terrel Bernard are inactive for today's game against the Patriots. That leaves Buffalo down its lead corner. Bernard's absence is probably good news for Buffalo's run defense, which has allowed 5.5 yards per carry with him on the field vs. 3.4 with Shaq Thompson in his place.

In fact, Brown could have had a third touchdown on a 25-yard pass from Joe Burrow in the fourth quarter. The pass hit him in the hands, but the ball was ripped away at the last second by a Bills' defensive back. Buffalo has actually defended the run relatively well since the bye week, especially when Shaq Thompson has been healthy, but Semaje Perine ran much harder and more physically in the snow than Brown did. Brown tried to set up too many cuts and jukes on a day when footing was hard to come back. Perine will continue to sap some of his upside, but Brown remains an RB2 heading into next week against the Ravens.

The Bills' offensive line held up well last weekend, even with Brown and left tackle Dion Dawkins (concussion) out. Dawkins is back for this one, but the Bills will still be down their starting right tackle in a snow game, where they could rely on James Cook and the rushing attack a lot. Joey Bosa continues to be week-to-week, but his loss is a big one for this pass rush, and Shaq Thompson will start again with Terrel Bernard out.