Patriots-Eagles Notebook: Silver Linings in Opening Loss?

The New England Patriots nearly earned an upset victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in their season opener at Gillette Stadium.

FOXBORO — For the third straight year, the New England Patriots suffered defeat in their season opener.

Despite losing on Tom Brady Appreciation Day, the Patriots can take solace in knowing that they gave the defending NFL Champions all they could handle in their 25-20 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday at Gillette Stadium. 

Patriots quarterback Mac Jones recovered from a rough start to finish 35 of 54 for 316 yards, three touchdowns and an interception. Overall, the Patriots’ offense out-gained their Philly counterparts 382-251 in total yardage. 

However, there were plenty of lessons to be learned from the Pats (0-1) as they turn their attention toward a matchup with a familiar AFC East rival in Week 2. 

Accordingly, here are some observations regarding the action on the field from the Pats Week 1 loss to the Eagles .

Patriots O-Line

With starting guards Cole Strange and Michael Onwenu inactive, New England faced a nearly insurmountable task in attempting to contain an Eagles pass rush which collected 70 sacks just one year ago. However, the Patriots rookie-powered pass protection performed adequately, especially along the interior. The makeshift unit of Trent Brown at left tackle, Atonio Mafi at right guard, David Andrews at center, Sidy Sow at right guard and Calvin Anderson at right tackle. Surrendered only two fourth-quarter sacks on Jones. Overall, coach Adrian Klemm appeared to have the Pats well-prepared for the various motions and no-huddle schemes which set the scene for much of the afternoon. 

Sow plays with a great deal of strength and it was evident in the run game on Sunday. His ability to drive defenders backward while adequately handling stunts and twists should make him a regular part of the rotation along the interior, as well as at swing tackle. 

Conversely, Mafi showcased fluid movement with good balance while sustaining his blocks. Of course, as a rookie, he still demonstrates few negative traits — most notably with his hand placement as evidenced by a questionable holding call late in the third quarter. Though that could be a continued issue in protection, the UCLA product showed enough to warrant his spot among the offensive line reserve options. 

Return of Henry, Bourne

Though receiver DeVante Parker remained out of action due to a lingering knee injury, a pair of Patriots veterans helped to spark the Patriots offense when most needed. As Patriots Country predicted earlier in the day, Bourne was one ‘“to watch,” compiling six receptions for 64 yards and two touchdowns. Bourne’s versatility allowed him to win his matchups in numerous alignments. Bourne’s rebirth within Bill O’Brien’s offense was an encouraging sign for the Pats ability to move the ball in clutch situations. 

Also widely praised for his versatility, Henry experienced something of a rejuvenation in Week 1. The newly-elected team captain caught five passes for 56 yards and one touchdown. He was most productive when playing the traditional “Y” role within O’Brien’s 12-personnel sets. As such, he was able to accentuate his impressive route running skills, as well as his ability to box out. Henry ultimately turned in what was the best catch of the day on either side, converting on a fourth-and-8 early in the fourth quarter. 

What a catch, @Hunter_Henry84 🤯

📺: #PHIvsNE on @NFLonCBS pic.twitter.com/KG0D9ieHmM

— New England Patriots (@Patriots) September 10, 2023

In short, both Bourne and Henry looked notably more comfortable on Sunday. The Pats clearly hope the difference is a positive sign of things to come. 

Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports

Pass Rush Takes it to Hurts

While the Pats offense had a handful of aesthetically-pleasing moments in this game, the Pats defense is largely the reason why New England was in position to earn the win for much of the game. The Pats preventive unit was particularly impressive in their attempts to contain Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. The Alabama-turned-Oklahoma product ran the ball nine times for 37 yards, while finishing 22 of 33 passing for 170 yards and one touchdown. 

Overall, the Pats defense collected three sacks on Hurts, from linebackers Matthew Judon and Josh Uche, as well as rookie Christian Gonzalez on a corner blitz. Gonzalez’s sack was evidence that the Pats intend to turn the tables on their opponents this season; providing strategic pressure from the second and third levels of the defense. Safety Jabrill Peppers was able to force Hurts to fumble with 3:37 remaining in the fourth quarter and the Pats facing only a five-point deficit. 

Confidence in Kicking Game

Patriots rookie kicker Chad Ryland’s abilities to kick in the clutch, perform well in inclement weather and handle kickoffs were key factors in his selection in the fourth round (no. 122 overall) in the 2023 NFL Draft— so much so that they were willing to trade-up to secure his services, and jettison beloved veteran Nick Folk via trade during final roster cutdowns. 

However, the Pats appeared reluctant to test the youngster’s leg on Sunday, as Ryland finished the day without a field goal attempt. With points becoming a premium in an increasingly tight game, Patriots coach Bill Belichick opted for a conversion attempt on fourth-and-3 at the 12-yard line but Ezekiel Elliott couldn't secure a short pass from Jones with 9:32 left in the fourth quarter. Had the Patriots chosen to take the high-percentage three points, Jones’ eventual fourth-quarter touchdown may have allowed the Pats to play for three, instead of six on their final drive. 

Ultimately, the hypothetical was superseded by Belichick’s decision, which was apparently made with a greater weight on aggression, instead of conservatism — a point he was careful to make clear during his postgame media conference. 

“Made the best decision we could at the time,” Belichick told reporters. “Didn't know we would be down there multiple times. Six minutes to go in the game. I don't know. If we had kicked it, I'm sure you would be asking why didn't we go for it.”

Up Next:

The Patriots will remain within the confines of Gillette Stadium when they host the Miami Dolphins (1-0) on Sunday, Sept. 17 with a 8:20 p.m. kickoff.