Kickoff- The Patriots kick off the 2023 season against the Philadelphia Eagles. Today is a special of course because not only is it the season opener, the Patriots will also be honoring Tom Brady with a pre game and halftime ceremony. It should be a special day at Gillette Stadium for the greatest quarterback of all time.

Here are four keys to the game.

Four Downs (Four keys to the game)

1st Down- Win upfront: The Eagles have a distinct advantage along the offensive and defensive lines. They are just flat out better. The Patriots have to find a way to protect Mac Jones offensively and get consistent pressure on Jalen Hurts. Not only do they need to get pressure on Hurts, they also need to maintain lane integrity so he doesn’t break contain and make plays when things break down. Look for the Patriots to emphasize 6 and 7 man protections today in an effort to support the offensive line.

2nd Down- Run defense: Run defense will be the key today for the defense. The front seven has to do a good job of getting their run fits and stacking and shedding blocks consistently. The Eagles running back trio of DeAndre Swift, Rashad Penny and Kenneth Gainwell along with Hurts pose major problems for any defense, especially in their zone running game. Winning on first down, especially against the run will be important. The Patriots must get the Eagles into long down situations.

3rd Down- Quick passing game: Getting the ball out of Mac’s hand quickly will be key today. Look for the Patriots to emphasize three step passes, quick five step passes, RPO’s and perimeter screens. It is the best way to slow down an aggressive pass rush. Set quick in pass protection and get the ball out quick. It seems cliche but with the Eagles playing a lot of single coverages, getting the ball outside quick is key.

4th Down- Generate Turnovers: Sounds simple but the Patriots are going to need extra possessions if they want to win today. Getting an early turnover and parlaying that into points could set the tone for the game. The Patriots will give Hurts a variety of looks in an effort to cloud his reads and confuse him. If they can force him into an early turnover, that could put the Patriots in prime position to score early and play with the lead.

Extra Point- The Eagles lead the all-time series 7-6. The two teams last played in 2019, a 17-10 win for the Patriots in Philadelphia. The last time these two teams played at Gillette Stadium was in 2015, a 35-28 Eagles win. The two teams have played in two Super Bowls and have split. The Patriots won in 2004 and the Eagles won in 2017.

Final Drive- The Patriots are up against it today but they will be jacked up with the return of Brady and the it being the home opener. If they can channel that emotion positively and get off to a good start, they should be in pretty good shape. A good start is paramount if they want to have any shot of beating a well coached, talented Eagles team.