5 bold predictions for the Patriots against the Buccaneers

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 26: Quarterback Mac Jones #10 of the New England Patriots looks on during the first quarter of the game against the New Orleans Saints at Gillette Stadium on September 26, 2021 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

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PHILADELPHIA, PA – AUGUST 19: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots talks to Mac Jones #10 against the Philadelphia Eagles in the first half of the preseason game at Lincoln Financial Field on August 19, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Patriots defeated the Eagles 35-0. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

After an embarrassing offensive performance against the Saints, the Patriots welcome Tom Brady and the Buccaneers in the most anticipated game of the year.

Sunday night will mark the first time Tom Brady has played at Gillette Stadium as the visitor. The Patriots know the importance of this game, not just in terms of wins and losses, but also in historical context.

Here is what to expect from the Patriots as they host Tom Brady and the Buccaneers.

Mac Jones will bounce back

The rookie out of Alabama had his first bad game as a pro in Week 3 against New Orleans. He threw three interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown.

Now, the three interceptions look worse in the box score than what it really was. Jakobi Myers dropped a pass that fell right into the waiting arms of Malcolm Jenkins, who ran it back for a touchdown. Jones may not have played a perfect game, but his receivers didn’t help him out in certain situations.

The Buccaneers have a secondary that the Patriots can take advantage of. New England’s offense won’t all of a sudden become the air raid, but Jones will have a better performance in Week 4.

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