Patriots prepare to scout Steelers and Falcons ahead of their next game

The New England Patriots will use Sunday’s matchup between the Pittsburgh and the Atlanta as a scouting opportunity for their home opener on September 20. Pittsburgh travels to play at Atlanta this week, providing the idle Patriots with a live look at personnel groupings and defensive schemes. The Atlanta coaching staff has confirmed that Cooper Rush will start at quarterback due to a right oblique injury sustained by Tua Tagovailoa, while Michael Penix Jr. remains sidelined following knee surgery. New England enters this period of observation after a Wednesday night loss to the Seattle, during which receiver A.J. Brown suffered a high ankle sprain. The coaching staff plans to analyze how Pittsburgh utilizes defensive pressure and disguises looks in the secondary to better prepare for the challenge posed by Drake Maye and the current offensive roster.

• 12:18 PMYahoo Sports — Steelers-Falcons Opener Gives Patriots Valuable Week 2 Scouting Opportunity