Patriots vs. Packers Preseason Preview: More Malik Magic?

The Patriots travel to Lambeau Field to face the Green Bay Packers in the second of their three preseason games.

The New England Patriots travel to Lambeau Field to face the Green Bay Packers in the second of their three preseason games.

After a couple lively joint practices on Wednesday and Thursday this week, this matchup is highlighted by a deeper look at a few preseason standouts.

The wait continues to see new offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien calling plays for the No. 1 offense. After sitting out Week 1, it is expected that starters (namely quarterback Mac Jones) will not see a lot of action against the Packers. 

However, preseason is an excellent opportunity to watch players vying to make the roster, while others make a case for major playing time...

Like undrafted rookie quarterback Malik Cunningham, who was an exciting standout in the Patriots' week one loss to Houston. Despite an anemic performance from the Patriots offense through three-plus quarters, the Louisville product ended the night on a high note. Leading the Pats on a 75-yard drive, Cunningham rushed five times for 34 yards, while completing 3 of 4 passed for 19 yards.

Can Cunningham do it again and challenge for the backup quarterback role?

Also, keep an eye out for the newest Patriot, running back Ezekiel Elliott. Elliott is sporting a new haircut and a new number, (15 from his college days at Ohio State) and was already running drills during practice this week. 

New England's many roster hopefuls try to earn their spot before Aug. 29, when every NFL team must reduce its roster to no more than 53 players. New England's 16-player practice squad will then begin to form.

The former kings of the AFC East are still looking to capture their first division title since 2016.

RECORDS: New England Patriots (0-1 preseason) vs. Green Bay Packers (1-0 preseason)

ODDS: New England is a 3.5-point underdog vs. the Packers.

GAME TIME: Saturday, August 18, 2023 at 8 p.m. ET

LOCATION: Lambeau Field - Green Bay, Wisconsin

TV/RADIO: CBS/WBZ, 98.5 The Sports Hub

THE FINAL WORD: Belichick was careful to advise that the seven-year veteran Elliott still has much to learn as he becomes acclimated to New England’s system.

“It’s good to have Zeke, and I look forward to working with him,” Belichick said. “I’ve never coached [Zeke] before, but I’m glad we have him … Spent time with him last night to teach him terminology, plays, projection … things like that. We’ll work with him on those things and more when he’s ready.” 

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