Five Things to Watch at Tonight's Patriots-Jacksonville Game

The Patriots will play their first game in months tonight at 7:30pm at Gillette Stadium.

This being a preseason game (and the first one at that), it's unlikely we'll see much of the starters. So, after the first quarter, what should Patriot fans be watching?

1. Our first look at Ryan Mallett. Tonight, fans may get a chance to see the rookie quarterback in his first pro action. The Pats shocked many when they selected the talented (but allegedly troubled) prospect in the third round. We'll see how their gamble is panning out so far.

It will be interesting to see how the battle to be Brady's backup will pan out between Mallett and Brian Hoyer. Hoyer has looked good in mop-up action, so it may take Mallett a while to overtake him (if he does at all).

2. How will the running back situation pan out? Going into the offseason, it seemed as if the Patriots were set at the position. The team, though, drafted two running backs — Shane Vereen and Stevan Ridley — in back-to-back rounds.

How will the Patriots fit these weapons in with incumbents BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Danny Woodhead, Kevin Faulk and Sammy Morris? Who's the odd man out? We may get hints tonight.

3. Glimpses at the revamped defensive line. The team made headlines when it acquired Albert Haynesworth, Andre Carter and Shaun Ellis. Though we probably won't see all of the team's new defensive linemen, the team is currently carrying a surplus — there will be cuts before the season.

Given the recent problems rushing the passer, this unit's performance is essential to success this year. We may see if they're up to the task.

4. How has the lockout affected the team? With no minicamps this year, and an abbreviated training camp, it will be interesting to see what the effect has been. Will the offenses (of both teams) be behind the defenses, as pundits have suggested? Will there be notable sloppiness on the field?

5. How will Jacksonville first-rounder Blaine Gabbert look? The Jacksonville Jaguars let incumbent quarterback David Garrard know his days are numbered when they drafted Gabbert in April. Gabbert had been lauded as the most pro-ready prospect, so they may be looking to fast-track him into the starting position.

How much of Garrard will we see? How much of Gabbert?

The game will be televised at 7:30pm on WBZ, Channel 4.