The [Patriots](https://nesn.com/new-england-patriots) started the 2026-27 regular season the way last year’s season ended, losing to the Seahawks. New England aims to rebound as the team heads home to [Gillette Stadium](https://nesn.com/new-england-patriots/news/gillette-stadium-guide-seating-map-parking-hotels-bag-policy-foxborough/72c74d1d51408cf5bde68e74) to take on the Steelers.
Week 2 will see the Patriots needing to adapt without A.J. Brown, out for a few weeks with an injury. The Steelers are coming off a win against the Falcons. QB Aaron Rodgers returns to Foxborough in what is his final season.
Adjustments are needed against the Steelers. The Patriots have plenty of questions surrounding the team, ones that hopefully can be answered.
Here are the top storylines for the Patriots before the Steelers come to town.
Patriots keys to victory vs. Steelers
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### **Can the Patriots improve the run game?**
The Seahawks' defense was good as advertised in Week 1, as Rhamondre Stevenson averaged 2.8 yards per carry. He logged 51 rushing yards on 18 attempts. Stevenson then pulled double duty as a running back and receiver.
The Patriots’ running game will need to be more efficient during Week 2.
Stevenson aims to stand out this time out against another tough defense. TreVeyon Henderson may be available for Week 2 after missing the first game due to an injury. The explosive 23-year-old would provide the Patriots a dynamic combination at RB that could tire out the Steelers’ defense.
### **A Romeo Doubs bounce-back game**
With A.J. Brown out due to injury, every player will need to step up. That includes Romeo Doubs.
Doubs had a Patriots debut he'd like to forget against the Seahawks. The former Green Bay Packer dropped three targets, including one that could have resulted in a crucial 20+ yard gain for the Patriots. Doubs may be the team’s WR1 moving forward.
The pressure is on, but the man who signed a four-year deal will need to give it his all.
### **Can Drake Maye adapt following multiple turnovers?**
Maye threw eight interceptions last season. He had three in one game against the Seahawks last Wednesday. Some would call his fourth-quarter performance reckless. Was he trying to make a statement but buckled under the pressure?
As Week 2 inches closer, Maye, who called the three interceptions “unacceptable,” will need to forget the past. Focusing on the present, Maye must enter Gillette Stadium with zero doubts about his abilities.
### Patriots defense vs. Steelers defense
The Patriots’ defense only allowed 13 points against the Seahawks, but it was a crucial 13 points. It also allowed backup QB Drew Lock to do whatever he wanted on the field. That will need to change against Aaron Rodgers.
Gabe Jacas had the lone sack on the Patriots' side. Christian Gonzalez, who signed a record-breaking contract, had two pass breakups and two tackles. Both players, along with the rest of the defense, will need to step up against Jaylen Warren and Michael Pittman Jr.
Meanwhile, the offense will have to worry about the dominant T.J. Watt, among others. Will Campbell, Alijah Vera-Tucker, and the O-line will aim for a massive game against one of the most elite players in the NFL.
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