The New England Patriots (11-3) find themselves in an important battle with the Buffalo Bills (10-4), in which a New England win would clinch an 11th consecutive AFC East title on Saturday. Here are three keys for a Patriots victory.

1. Unleash Rex Burkhead

Although he’s been kept on the bench for various streaks over his three-year tenure with the Patriots, Rex Bulkhead is often utilized in the biggest of games, even if it’s sparingly, for strategic reasons.

Burkhead totaled 64 yards on just three touches in Super Bowl LII and scored twice on 12 carries in last year’s AFC Championship Game win in Kansas City.

With the obviousness of how New England utilizes Sony Michel and James White, it may be time for the Patriots to turn to Burkhead as its feature back on Saturday.

Running Burkhead out of ’11’ personnel (1 RB, 1 TE, 3 WR) would be beneficial if New England decides to run a hurry-up offense, because Burkhead can easily split out wide in a shotgun spread formation, as well as playing scatback next to Tom Brady in additional shotgun personnel.

2. Take advantage of any red zone trips

By now, we know what this Patriots offense is. Considering the Bills’ defense is one of the the league’s premier units, the Patriots will again have trouble moving the ball.

But when Brady does lead the Patriots offense into the red zone — or when the defense or special teams gets them there — New England will have to capitalize on the few (probably) times they make it that far into Buffalo territory.

This is where they should continue to utilize first-round rookie N’Keal Harry, and his 6-foot-4 frame, to box out defenders.

3. Keep up defensive excellence

The Bills offense has improved since New England’s Week 4 win in Buffalo, and barring a repeat of events, Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen should finish the game.

But the Patriots should be able to contain the Bills’ offensive attack with controlled aggression and relentlessness. The home crowd will help, too.

Still, this will be tougher with slot cornerback Jonathan Jones unavailable to check Bills slot receiver — and once offseason target acquisition by the Patriots — Cole Beasley.

But Bill Belichick will scheme something up. He always does.

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