In the Patriots’ home opener vs the Las Vegas Raiders, the team lost 20 to 13, with the Patriots kicking a field goal in garbage time.
On the Raiders’ opening drive, the team scored easily on the Patriots’ defense. The Patriots were able to respond with a good drive of their own, ending with a Demario Douglas touchdown. After the Raiders’ stellar opening drive, the Patriots’ defense was able to settle in, forcing an interception and coming up with some sacks. At the half, the Pats led 10 to seven.
The second half came, and it was all Raiders for the most part. They were able to put up 13 unanswered points and intercept quarterback Drake Maye. Though the Patriots attempted to rally back, their attempts were unsuccessful.
As the Patriots shift their focus to week two in Miami, taking on the Dolphins, there are some positives from week one they should look to build upon.
D-Line
Throughout the course of the game, the Patriots’ defensive line was able to wreak havoc in pass rush as well as run stop, showing they could potentially be one of the best units in the league.
Hopefully, the Patriots’ defensive line can take advantage of the Dolphins’ missing two starters on the right side of their offensive line.
Offense
On the offensive side, the Patriots’ receiving group looked to be much improved from previous seasons.
Kayshon Boutte, Hunter Henry, and Stefon Diggs all looked to be reliable options for second-year quarterback Drake Maye.
O-Line
Despite the positives, the team lost, so adjustments must be made. For the offensive line, the unit has to be more disciplined with flags and be able to establish the run game. Josh McDaniels’ offense is catered towards the run game, and the team was unable to do that vs the Raiders. As a group, the offense needs to be able to push the ball downfield.
Las Vegas played a lot of zone coverage to keep things underneath, but even when there were chances… no shots were taken. Defensively, the Patriots did a solid job, allowing 20 points, forcing four sacks, and an interception. Even with that, the team must limit big plays and get off the field on 3rd/4th down.
The Miami Dolphins are coming off a tough road loss, 33-8, to the Indianapolis Colts. As they get back home, they are looking to get things back on track.
For the Patriots, they look to flush the first game jitters and get things settled in. Even though it is early in the season, this is a must-win for both teams.
On Sunday at 1:00 p.m. Eastern, the two teams will battle at Hard Rock Stadium for the divisional win.
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