Patriots Beat Saints 7-6

New England outlasted the New Orleans Saints in their preseason opener by a score of 7 to 6. Though it was a close game, the Saints failed to get the ball into the end zone, and in the game of football, you want to do that every once in a while. The Patriots weren't exactly offensive juggernauts either, but you don't expect to see that in a preseason game. Tom Brady had an efficient drive, and though he only played for a short amount of time, you can see that he's ready to lead this team to a great season.


> The offensive line was concerning. New Orleans doesn't have an amazing pass rush, and the pressure that Tom Brady faced was entirely too much for a mediocre group. Brady went down more than once, including once on 3rd and 16, resulting in a fumble that New Orleans recovered.

> 2nd year receiver caught a touchdown pass from backup QB Brian Hoyer to cap off a 14 play 97 yard drive, highlighted by 2nd year back Shane Vereen's explosive running (7 attempts for 63 yards on the drive.)

> Speaking of running backs, starting HB Stevan Ridley played as expected, running hard and downhill to the tune of 8 carries for 40 yards.

> Brian Hoyer held on to his 2nd spot on the depth chart, as he and Ryan Mallett had similar games. Hoyer was however more accurate, and threw a TD as opposed to Mallett's INT.

> Rookie 3rd round pick Jake Bequette and Trevor Scott both recorded a sack for the Patriots, and Pat Chung came away with a interception, showing why he is one of our least concerns on defense.

> Drew Brees was held ineffective, going 1 of 4 for 4 yards. Rookie LB Dont'a Hightower had an impressive 4 tackles in limited action, and Syracuse product Chandler Jones provided constant pressure for the Patriots defensive line.

> The Boston TE Party (Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski) had a decent night, Gronk with 2 for 20, and Hernandez with 1 for 7.