Here is a look at how the Patriots' first-year players performed in the team's Week Three loss to the Bills.

ORT Nate Solder (first round, 17th overall) — Solder got his second career start, as Sebastian Vollmer was out with a back injury. Solder did allow a pressure to Bills OLB Shawne Merriman and was flagged for illegal use of the hands, a penalty that cost the Pats a 35-yard gain. In pass protection, Solder was good for the most part, as he did not allow any sacks, but his presence couldn't help spark the rushing attack.

RB Stevan Ridley (3, 73) — Ridley actually led the team in rushing with seven carries for 44 yards (6.3-yard average) with a long of 16 yards. He looked pretty good in between the tackles and was the only Patriots back to have some success.

LS Danny Aiken (undrafted) — Aiken picked up a special-teams tackle in the loss. He is still perfect on his snaps.

Notes: CB Ras-I Dowling (2, 33) was inactive with an injury. ... QB Ryan Mallett (3, 74) and RB Shane Vereen (2, 56) were both active for the first time this season but did not play.