FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- The New England Patriots host the New Orleans Saints in the preseason opener Thursday (7:30 p.m. ET). Here's a quick-hit primer at each position:
QUARTERBACK
Tom Brady isn't playing, Jimmy Garoppolo gets the start, and here are three things the Patriots will be looking for: 1) Leadership; 2) Accuracy/decision-making; 3) Operating the offense efficiently. This will be the first time Garoppolo has faced a live pass-rush and tackling this year.
RUNNING BACK
This should be a good chance for an extended look at Tyler Gaffney, who has been a primary ball-carrier in practice.