Image courtesy of the Tennessean
The Patriots have won four in a row after beating the Tennessee Titans 31-13. The win was historic as the Patriots won three straight regular season games for the first time in franchise history. Drake Maye also broke Tom Brady’s franchise record for the highest single-game completion percentage (min. 20 pass attempts) in a game at 91.3%
With the win, the Patriots improved to 5-2 on the season. Here are seven points from their win.
1. Slow start: The Patriots got off to a slow start, especially the defense. Tennessee’s offense came out humming and Cam Ward was on point to start. Trailing 10-3 early, the Patriots were able to tie the game on a Maye to Austin Hooper connection. From that point on, the Patriots took game over but the first quarter and a half were not good.
2. Maye’s Day: Maye completed 21 of 23 passes for a 135.9 passer rating. He now is the third player under the age of 24 with at least 200 yards passing and a passer rating of 100 or higher in six straight games in NFL history joining Patrick Mahomes(seven consecutive in 2018) and Pro Football Hall of Famer Dan Marino (six in 1984).
3. Running game returns: The Patriots opened the game running the ball and looking to set a tone. The end result, 175 yards rushing and 88 yards rushing and a touchdown by Rhamondre Stevenson. The Patriots running game has been one of the worst in the league thus far. Today the Patriots proved that they can run the ball if they commit to it.
4. Boutte continues strong play: Boutte only caught 2 passes for 55 yards but one of those catches was a 39 yard touchdown catch right before the end of the first half that in essence put the game away. Boutte and Maye have developed quite the chemistry and it is paying off for the Patriots as they continue to get acclimated to Josh McDaniels offense.
5. Chaisson was a force: One of the Patriots best free agent signings has been EDGE K’Lavon Chaisson. Chaisson had another big game, finishing with a sack and a scoop and score on a Cam Ward fumble. He is a great fit in the Patriots defensive scheme and his versatility is paying dividends. At 26, he is in his prime and could be here long term.
6. Vrabel’s revenge: Mike Vrabel got his revenge today against the Titans and while he downplayed the importance of the game earlier in the week, this win meant a lot to him and it showed after the game in the locker room.
7. History made: The Patriots have won three straight regular season road games for the first time in team history. An impressive feat when you consider all of the success this organization had during the dynasty years. Factor in Maye setting a new franchise record today for the highest single-game completion percentage (min. 20 pass attempts) — 91.3% and it was a historic day. By the way, the previous record was held by Tom Brady at 88.5%.