Patriots vs. Eagles Preview: Tom Brady Appreciation; Mac Jones Protection?

The New England Patriots' beleaguered offensive line needs to keep quarterback Mac Jones upright in Sunday's season opener against the defending NFC champion Philadelphia Eagles.

The New England Patriots kick-off the 2023 NFL season against the reigning NFC champion Philadelphia Eagles Sunday in Foxboro. This matchup is highlighted by an intriguing strength vs. strength: the Eagles' high-powered offense vs the respected Patriots' defense. 

The Patriots defense hopes to get after Philadelphia quarterback Jalen Hurts, who finished 14-1 as starter last season. New Eagles to watch include the rookie trio of Jalen Carter, Nolan Smith, and Kelee Ringo, who all played at Georgia together.  

The Eagles offense led the league in rushing touchdowns per game last season while the Patriots defense allowed the fewest rushing touchdowns per game. 

The wait is over to see new offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien calling plays for the No. 1 offense. Quarterback Mac Jones looks to bounce back with new weapons at his disposal. Sunday will be the debut for new Patriots JuJu Smith-Schuster, Ezekiel Elliott, and Mike Gesicki.

Keep an eye out for Tom Brady, as the Patriots are celebrating Tom Brady Appreciation Day. Also, Bill Belichick's longtime right-hand man, Matt Patricia, works for the Eagles now and will be making his first return to Gillette Stadium.

The former kings of the AFC East are still looking to capture their first division title since 2019.

FUN FACT: New England is in its 24th season under the direction of Belichick, who is in his NFL-record 49th consecutive season coaching in the NFL.

RECORDS: New England Patriots (0-0) vs. Philadelphia Eagles (0-0)

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

GAME TIME: Sunday, September 10, 2023 at 4:25 p.m. ET

LOCATION: Gillette Stadium - Foxborough, Massachusetts

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

THE FINAL WORD: Mac Jones on former Pats' offensive play-caller Matt Patricia, now the Eagles' senior defensive assistant and making his return to Gillette Stadium:

“Coach Patricia is a really smart guy and I have a lot of respect him,” Jones said during his weekly appearance on WEEI’s Jones and Mego with Arcand. “Really enjoyed, actually, working with him. We put in a lot of hours together. I wish him nothing but the best. I really do respect him and I had a lot of good times with him too.”

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