Patriots 17 Panthers 3: Post Game Grades

New England Patriots defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr., grabs Carolina Panthers quarterback Jack Plummer (16) during the first half of a preseason NFL football game, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Mark Stockwell)

FOXBOROUGH- Our first installment of post game grades sees quarterback Joe Milton at the head of his class with an A. I thought he had a strong night as did the interior of the defensive line.

Here are my grades for the Patriots after their 17-3 win over Carolina.

QB Joe Milton: Milton threw for 54 yards and a touchdown pass while rushing for 25 yards. He gave the offense a much needed spark.

Interior Defensive line: The defensive line as a whole was dominate from the opening position on and made life tough on Panthers rookie quarterback Jack Plummer.

Jerod Mayo: Going easy on coach to start. They won didn’t they?You can question the Maye but that’s off the field. Doesn’t impact his game grade.

B+

Edge Rushers: Whether it was Anfernee Jennings or Oshane Ximines, the edge players got a consistent rush all night, especially in key situations. The Patriots finished with 5 sacks on the evening.

DT Jeremiah Pharms: Pharms made a strong case for himself to make the team. He collapsed the pocket several times, got a consistent rush and he looked like a veteran out there. With Christian Barmore out, he has a legitimate shot at making the team.

WR Kayshon Boutte: Boutte caught three passes for 58 yards including a 28 yard catch that set up the Patriots first touchdown. He had the best night of any of the receivers.

RB Terrell Jennings: Jennings had a strong second half rushing for 38 yards on 6 carries including a long of 20 yards.

Secondary: The secondary had solid coverage all night long. They stayed in phase and did a nice job notching several PBU’s.

Bailey Zappe: I thought Zappe did a good job. He completed 12-of-20 passes for 108 yards and led a touchdown drive. He missed some throws but overall he had a good night.

QB Drake Maye: He only played seven plays and went 2 for 3 for 19 yards. Not much to judge.

RB Kevin Harris: Harris carried the ball 8 times for 22 and a touchdown but only had a long of 5 yards. He did return kicks however.

Linebackers: I didn’t really notice anything with this group. It has kind of been the same thing at practice. They haven’t popped this far.

Kick return team: It was the first time the new kick return was used in a game and to quote Shania Twain. That don’t impress me much.

Offensive tackles: Not a good night at the office. I thought all of the tackle had an up and down night. The Patriots are going to need a lot more from these guys.