Patriots Jones Serves Pick 6; Early 16-0 Deficit vs. Eagles

The New England Patriots find themselves in an early hole during the first quarter of their season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles at Gillette Stadium.

FOXBORO — The Philadelphia Eagles defense wasted little time in displaying it explosive nature against the New England Patriots in their highly-anticipated Week 1 matchup.

Despite a promising first offensive drive — which included running back Ezekiel Elliott’s first carry as a Patriot, quarterback Mac Jones rushed a throw intended for receiver Kendrick Bourne on third-and-5 from the Eagles 42-yard line. Philadelphia  cornerback Darius Slay jumped the pass to earn the interception, as well as a 70-yard return for the touchdown. 

New England’s offendive woes went from bad to worse when Elliott — who did not fumble during last season, his final season with the Cowboys — surrendered the ball on first-and-10 at the New England 25. Philadelphia running back Zach Cunningham recovered the ball. Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts led Philly 26 yards on four plays, capped by a five yard pass to receiver DeVonta Smith.  

Led by Jones, the Patriots are hoping to show marked improvement from an 8-9 finish to their 2022 campaign. The task at hand is a tall one, as the Pats welcome the defending NFL Champion-Eagles to Foxboro. Behind quarterback Jalen Hurts, the Eagles boast one of the most versatile offenses in the NFL. They also employ a stifling defense, which led the league with 69.5 sacks last season.

The Pats mission was made even more difficult as the team announced that three offensive starters - receiver DeVante Parker and offensive linemen Cole Strange and Mike Onwenu - are inactive and will miss the game.

Also on New England's inactives list: Linebacker Anfernee Jennings, defensive tackle Sam Roberts and cornerback Shaun Wade.