Game Rewind: The Patriots beat the Saints 34-22 in a game that featured big plays, defensive scores and a bunch of pointless penalties. Here are my ten thoughts on the game.
10 Thoughts From the Game
1. Jimmy Garoppolo completed 11-18 passes for 168 yards and no touchdown passes. Overall, he was o.k. I thought he held the ball too long on intermediate and vertical route combinations. He was much more comfortable when Josh McDaniels started calling more three step and screen plays.
2. Garoppolo needs to do a better job of working around the pocket. If he’s going to throw his third read or his check down, he needs to step into the pocket.
3. The defense was impressive tonight. They scored two defensive touchdowns but more importantly, Bill Belichick and Matt Patricia got to play most of the ones for the entire first quarter.
4. I love that the Patriots are more versatile with their fronts. They did a great job of showing the Saints multiple personnel and fronts tonight.
5. You have to feel for Malcolm Mitchell. The rookie wide receiver appeared to have injured his arm and it did not look good.
6. James White made a statement tonight, especially on the 56 yard screen play that led to LeGarrette Blount’s touchdown. Many people seem to think White won’t make the team but given the way he played tonight, there is a good chance he makes it. He played well.
7. Speaking of running backs. How about Tyler Gaffney? The kid has been waiting two years to play and when he finally does, he carries the ball 9 times for 64 yards, including a 44 yard touchdown run. At 6-0 220, Gaffney has the size to potentially beat out LeGarrette Blount as the big back on the roster.
8. I was very impressed with Martellus Bennett. He caught three passes for 33 yards but you see how good a route runner he is. He knows how to get open.
9. Trey Flowers made quite an impression. Aside from scoring a defensive touchdown, Flowers showed great versatility playing defensive end and defensive tackle. With Rob Ninkovich out until October, Flowers has a chance to carve a niche for himself.
10. The starting offensive line unit was not very good. The Saints aren’t very talented up front but they were about to generate a pass rush throughout the first half. Coach Scar will have plenty to talk about during tomorrow’s film session.