Denver will be without top running back Melvin Gordon and No. 1 tight end Noah Fant. On the flip side, the Pats get their two most important players back in Cam Newton and Stephon Gilmore. I generally don't like giving this many points but under 10 it's worthwhile here.

Not even Bill Belichick’s coaching playbook contains a master plan for dealing with disruptions related to COVID-19. The latest in a series of stops-and-starts happened Friday, when another positive test resulted in a cancelled practice. The team’s facility has been open just one day this week. QB Cam Newton (COVID-19) is on tap to return but could be rusty. The Broncos welcome back RB Phillip Lindsay (toe) and QB Drew Lock (shoulder) from injury layoffs.

It's big that the Patriots are getting Cam Newton back, but let's not overlook the Broncos also seeing the return of their star quarterback, Drew Lock. Also noteworthy is that Noah Fant was able to practice to start the week after being ruled out for the Week 5 matchup that didn't happen. Those players should help the Broncos keep this game within single digits against a Patriots team that has looked good but not quite to their normal level of play. Newton's offense may struggle against a defense that has played well (sixth in points per drive, third in red-zone success rate), and that'll help keep us inside the number.

I think Cam Newton is going to play. The Pats have a good running game and a strong defense, while Denver doesn't have a QB who can play. The Patriots can name the score.