Here are some thoughts and observations I gathered while watching the New England Patriots face off against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, a mix of game highlights and insights:
Drake Maye managed to return from concussion protocol just in time to start. Early in the game, he caused some anxious moments by scrambling on his second snap for a 26-yard run. This was reminiscent of the tuck-and-run play that resulted in his injury against the Jets last week. Unlike last time, however, where he slid too late and left himself open to a dangerous hit to the helmet, Maye approached his first run on Sunday with more caution. He took a manageable hit while pushing forward but appeared more controlled. Later, in the second quarter, he demonstrated even more awareness by sliding early during another big scramble, avoiding contact altogether. It seems Maye has learned the importance of timing his slides to protect himself, though he’s also willing to take contact when necessary.
On the defensive side for New England, the matchup between cornerback Christian Gonzalez and wide receiver Calvin Ridley stood out. Ridley was someone the Patriots had hoped to sign during free agency, and this duel was a major test for Gonzalez. He displayed impressive skill with a few pass breakups, though he also got beat at times. It’s clear the Patriots are grooming him to become their go-to corner for handling opponents’ top receivers. However, defending in space remains a persistent issue for the team. As the CBS broadcast highlighted, the Titans consistently found success by targeting the Patriots’ second level, exploiting open areas.
The Patriots’ offensive line saw the return of rookie Layden Robinson, who started at right guard. Known for his physicality in the run game but struggles in pass protection, Robinson’s vulnerability showed on an early third-down play when he was overpowered by Pro Bowl defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons. Meanwhile, kicker Joey Slye faced some tough conditions, with both of his first-half field goal attempts being over 50 yards. He missed a challenging 56-yarder but successfully made a 53-yarder. Jahlani Tavai provided a defensive highlight with an impressive diving interception at the goal line, snagging a pass that deflected off a receiver’s hands.
Maye, however, continues to struggle with interceptions, reaching three for the season after making an ill-advised throw under pressure right to a closing safety. The Titans also had difficulties, particularly on special teams, where Marcus Jones made them pay by returning a kick from within his own 5-yard line for 44 yards. A unique offensive play design involved a screen pass to rookie tight end Jaheim Bell, who had motioned outside. While the play didn’t pan out, it’s indicative of New England’s efforts to spread the ball around and use different players in creative ways. Another such instance was the clear plan to get Pop Douglas involved; they repeatedly gave him the ball in space, allowing him opportunities to create big plays.
Rookie Ja’Lynn Polk had another challenging game, getting called for holding on an edge screen. His struggles continue to be a recurring theme in his rookie year. Meanwhile, the Patriots’ approach to the last few minutes before halftime remains confusing. They appear caught between aggression and caution, often stalling out drives without any clear strategy to either score or run out the clock. This indecisive approach led to another frustrating end-of-half drive. And just before halftime, Bryce Baringer, who has been a reliable punter for the Patriots, had an unfortunate 15-yard shank. Luckily for him, the Titans fumbled their own final drive, ending the half without capitalizing on Baringer’s mistake.
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