Instant analysis of Patriots' 17-3 preseason win over Panthers

Mike Masala

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Instant analysis of Patriots' 17-3 preseason win over Panthers image

After months of practicing against their own team, the New England Patriots hosted the Carolina Panthers for their preseason opener, and new head coach Jerod Mayo's team earned a 17-3 victory.

Mayo gave Jacoby Brissett the start under center for New England, but he got just one drive, throwing three incompletions. Drake Maye followed, completing two of his three attempts in his lone drive for 19 yards.

That was all we saw from New England's top two, as Bailey Zappe got the remainder of the first half and part of the third quarter, completing 60% of his passes for 108 yards. Joe Milton III got the rest of the game, completing 66% of his passes for 54 yards and a touchdown.

Kayshon Boutte was the most-targeted wideout, catching three of the six passes thrown his direction for 53 yards. JaQuae Jackson caught Milton's touchdown after faking out the cornerback on a double move.

Running back Kevin Harris got the team's lone rushing touchdown, scoring from two yards out in the second quarter on a play that featured an awesome block by offensive lineman Nick Leverett.

New England's offensive was all right. They allowed just two sacks, but they didn't help much in the running game, as the backs averaged just 3.5 yards per attempt.

The Patriots' defense was stout, but it's important to note that Panthers quarterback Bryce Young didn't play. They held Carolina to just 89 yards passing, 62 yards on the ground and no offensive points. 

Mayo's plan for the quarterbacks may have been a confusing one, but you can't argue with the result. It's hard to say a lot could be learned from this one with the starter and backup both getting just one drive each.

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Mike Masala

Mike Masala Photo

Mike Masala previously served as the Managing Editor of USA TODAY's Dolphins Wire as well as a contributing writer at Patriots Wire. A lifelong New England resident, he is the self-proclaimed captain and lone member of the Laurence Maroney Fan Club. Follow on Twitter/X: @Mike_Masala