The New England Patriots are set to host the reigning world champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, in a highly anticipated matchup at Gillette Stadium on Sunday. However, the Patriots will have to navigate the game without three key members of their starting lineup.

Friday's injury report revealed that wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, offensive tackle Trent Brown, and running back Rhamondre Stevenson will all be unavailable for the game. Stevenson was already declared inactive due to an ankle injury he sustained during the game against the Los Angeles Chargers two Sundays ago.

Smith-Schuster and Brown were initially listed as questionable but were ultimately downgraded just 90 minutes before kickoff. Smith-Schuster is grappling with an ankle issue, while Brown, a veteran left tackle, is not only dealing with ankle and hand ailments but also an illness.

The absence of these three players will undoubtedly pose a challenge for the Patriots as they face off against the high-powered offense of the Kansas City Chiefs. Smith-Schuster's absence will leave a void in the receiving corps, as his skills and ability to make big plays have been vital to the team's success. Brown's absence will test the offensive line's ability to protect the quarterback and create running lanes, while Stevenson's absence limits the Patriots' options in the backfield.

However, the Patriots have shown resilience in the face of adversity before. Head coach Bill Belichick and his coaching staff will need to rely on their depth and versatility to fill the gaps left by these injuries. Wide receivers Nelson Agholor and Kendrick Bourne may be called upon to step up in Smith-Schuster's absence, while offensive tackle Isaiah Wynn could be tasked with protecting the blindside in Brown's place. Running backs Damien Harris and James White will likely shoulder the majority of the workload in the absence of Stevenson.

Despite the challenges posed by these injuries, the Patriots remain confident and determined to put up a strong fight against the Chiefs. With a solid game plan and the ability to adapt, they will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Chiefs' defense and secure a victory on their home turf.

All eyes will be on Gillette Stadium on Sunday as the New England Patriots and the Kansas City Chiefs battle it out in what promises to be an intense showdown between two football powerhouses.