New England Patriots are not having the best of seasons in 2021. But considering they are in a period of transition, their goals will be realistic. They are 3rd in their division behind the rivals, Miami Dolphins.

Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, on the other hand, are on track to make the playoffs yet again. Both these teams will meet head-to-head in a rare matchup. However, one must remember that there are multiple storylines at play in this game.

Here’s a detailed look at both teams, along with injury updates and Week 4 Matchday predictions.

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NFL Preview

New England Patriots gear up for tenacious encounter in Week 4

Tom Brady’s much-awaited return to the Gillette Stadium is finally round the corner. The veteran quarterback will go up against former New England Patriots coach and mentor, Bill Belichick in what is being termed as the ‘game of the season’. This game will have Super Bowl-level coverage and all players involved will give their best, without a doubt.

One man who might make a career out of this game is rookie quarterback Mac Jones. If he manages to play the game of his life and beat a 7-time Super Bowl winner, that too in front of home fans, he might just edge one step closer to the ROTY. Keep an eye on this storyline.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Tom Brady eager to silence doubters

Bruce Arians-coached Tampa Bay Buccaneers are currently 2nd in their division behind the Carolina Panthers. They suffered their first loss of the season on the weekend against the Rams. But Brady and Co. will be eager to bounce back to winning ways.

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The defending champions are without TE Rob Gronkowski for Sunday. However, they might be able to call upon the services of veteran CB Richard Sherman who signed a one-year deal earlier this week.

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NFL Preview: New England Patriots vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers Injury Updates

New England – Out

RB James White – Hip

Questionable

OT Trent Brown – Calf

OT Isaiah Wynn – Knee

LB Ja’Whaun Bentley – Shoulder

LB Josh Uche – Back

CB J.C. Jackson – Knee

LB Kyle Van Noy – Groin

S Kyle Dugger – Hamstring

K Nick Folk – Left knee

Tampa Bay – Out

RB Giovani Bernard – Knee

CB Jamel Dean – Knee

TE Rob Gronkowski – Ribs

Questionable

LB Jason Pierre-Paul – Shoulder

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Patriots vs Buccaneers Prediction

New England Patriots 15 – 33 Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Without a doubt, Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are favorites heading into this Week 4 showdown. But coach Belichick knows TB12 like the back of his palm. If he gets it right, this might be the easiest game for him to call.

But knowing Brady and his recent evolution as a leader, this game will be anything but ‘easy’ for the home team. We expect fireworks, magic, and tears.