Pats-Commanders Recap: The New England Patriots wrapped up their preseason with a 20-10 defeat to the Washington Commanders Sunday night. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye shined even in the loss.
Following a start by Jacoby Brissett, Maye checked in with just over a minute left in the first quarter and led an impressive touchdown drive that demonstrated his skill set as well as his ability to perform under pressure. That was one of the few highlights for the Patriots on Sunday.
Things did not get any better in the second half as freshman Joe Milton replaced Maye to gain his own game experience. Bailey Zappe, the final QB to play in a Western Kentucky uniform Friday night dressing out with three minutes left to go.
Another unpredictable from New England comes in the form of their rash season finale, which showed what is expected to be a decent side but was put in its place early doors by Buffalo and who some might have slated as still being able to become this year’s surprise turn-up team that no one will want come playoff time. These young quarterbacks are the most talked-about storylines of the offseason, and everyone cannot wait for them to finally develop once we get into our main course.
The defense, well, they did show flashes at times Friday night in a 22-13 loss to the Washington Commanders tide over what turned out be an extended exhibition season. Ability to get stops, as they stopped Washington (seven generated points) but surrendered 20ONEY: Forcing the turnover The defense was solid at times, especially in the first half, but could not put 60 minutes together.
A few standout tackles and forced turnovers here and there kept it a close game. Still, the defense had some trouble keeping Washington out of positive situations on important drives as well.
Though it ultimately means very little, the preseason game did shed some light on how the Patriots’ defense can get better before Week 1. How the team deals with these issues will be monitored closely by fans.
Here are three up and two down among the defenders:
- Shaun Wade: He had a big problem in coverage, allowing catches left and right as he couldn’t keep up with the Commanders WRs.
- Ronnie Perkins: The linebacker had a quieter game, unable to make much of an impact with just one tackle and no pressure as far as the quarterback was concerned.
- Jalen Mills: The safety had a pair of important missed tackles that helped Washington sustain drives and put up points.
Struggles here should highlight things that need work as the team moves forward to prepare for regular season action. Expect these issues to be worked out in the defensive room between now and their next game so that they can give up fewer goals as 2022 rolls on.
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