The Patriots confirm our Thoughts and Fears
The Patriots crushed the Commanders 48-18 in preseason game one, but don’t let the scoreboard fool you—this game was loaded with sneaky takeaways. Dr. Big Mac, Rich, and Chief Bobby break down Drake Maye’s performance, the offensive line’s surprising rookie-heavy approach, and a running game that might just be the offense’s anchor this season.
From Eton Chissom’s emergence, to Treveon Henderson’s game-breaking speed, to a defense that still can’t pressure the QB, we dig into what matters, what’s noise, and what’s potentially a big problem heading into combined practices with the Vikings.
Plus: McDaniels vs. Flores chess match, Milton Williams’ candid assessment of the D-line, the Tom Brady statue non-news, and Headlines with the Obvious One.
🏈 Patriots 48 – Commanders 18: What You Didn’t See in the Box Score
Drake Maye: Flashes, mistakes, and one turnover away from disaster.
Josh McDaniels’ encouraging (but cautious) comments.
WR group mostly invisible—Eton Chissom the lone bright spot.
Rookie-heavy left side of the O-line gets a test.
Treveon Henderson steals the offseason headlines with explosive play.
🛡 Defense: Still Searching for an Identity
No pass rush + shaky run defense.
Kyle Peko signed to shore up the middle.
DJ James makes a name for himself with an INT.
Kyle Dugger possibly being phased out for rookie Craig Woodson.
🧠 Coaching & Culture
Just two penalties—discipline is there.
Vrable’s presser: Calls the blowout a “good starting place,” but Maye’s turnover “unacceptable.”
The big-picture takeaway: a team playing hard, moving forward.
🔜 Looking Ahead – Patriots/Vikings Joint Practice
Carlton Davis to play, Gonzalez sits.
WR Jaylen Polk not making the trip.
McDaniels vs. Flores: How much of Maye will they show?
Milton Williams: “Still work to do” on defense.
🗿 Tom Brady Statue Talk
Meh.
📰 Headlines with the Obvious One