Game Rewind: Tom Brady made his 2016 debut at Gillette Stadium and led the Patriots to a 35-17 win over the Bengals. Brady threw for 395 yards and three touchdown passes in the win. 

Here are five thoughts on the win. 

1. Brady Was Brady: Tom Brady was Tom Brady yesterday. The Patriots had some protection issues early but once they made some adjustments and Brady had time, he got the ball out on time and the offense got back on track in the second half. I’m sure Brady was a little jazzed to start the game so that probably contributed to his slow start. 

2. Gronk Goes Off: Rob Gronkowski had a career day catching 7 passes for 162 yards and a touchdown. Gronkowski was routinely open, especially down the middle of the field. Gronk was a non factor in the Patriots offense at the start of the season, but now that Brady is back, Gronk is a big part of the Patriots offense once again. 

3. Defense Was Up and Down: The defense struggled in the first half but rebounded in the second half and played better. Consistency continues to be an issue for the Patriots defense. They need to start play better, especially on third down. 

4. Offensive Line Was Terrible: The offensive line did not play well, especially in the first half. Tom Brady got hit, a lot. The Patriots made adjustments at the half and the offensive line played better in the second half but it was discouraging to watch Brady get hit so much. 

5. Trash Trashing Theatrics: I didn’t like that the Patriots took the bait and started jawing with the Bengals. Cincinnati trash talks like it’s their job. Gronk and the rest of the team wasted time trash talking when they were winning. They should have just walked away. It was a waste of time.