Pats Cast Episode 12: Patriots Face the Bills, Prepare for the Trade Deadline

Josh Allen had a strong start to the 2020 season, but has struggled this month. (Photo: SportingNews.com/Getty Images)

Entering the weekend at 2-4, the Patriots have an important matchup with the Buffalo Bills on Sunday.

Both teams are trending in the wrong direction entering the game, but the weather could play into New England's favor despite having a less-talented roster.

Here's a look at what to expect on Sunday, along with the impact the result will likely have ahead of the Trade Deadline.

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In terms of the game itself, expect "football weather" to have a major impact, with both teams running the ball more than normal.

As short-handed as the Patriots are in the passing game – and despite it being a strength for Buffalo – you likely won't see a ton of it.

The Bills' loss to the Titans earlier this month provides a blueprint for what Sunday's contest might look like. In that game, Josh Allen threw two interceptions and the Titans ran the ball more times (34) than they threw it (28) en route to a 42-16 victory.

To be clear, I don't see the Patriots winning nearly that decisively – if at all – but those run/pass splits will likely be duplicated, and it gives them a much better chance to win.

Both teams enter Sunday with a slew of injuries. Five players have already been ruled out – three for the Patriots and two for the Bills – and 18 more are questionable.

Photos: patriots.com

Sunday's game will undeniably be won in the trenches. Throwback football fans will love that.

Kickoff is set for 1:00 p.m. ET from Orchard Park, and the game will be televised on CBS. Follow me on Twitter for updates.