Game Rewind: The Patriots played their starters for a quarter and a half in their win over the Panthers. The starters looked rusty at times but also put some good stuff on film. Here are five thoughts from the game.

1. Sony Michel looked good: Michel got his first game action of the pre-season and looked good. Michel looks leaner and quicker and showed good burst. He finished the night with 10 carries for 36 yards.

2. Brady debuts: Tom Brady made his 2019 debut. Brady looked out of sync early but hit a couple of passes and finished 8 of 12 for 75 yards. It was an uninspiring performance but does it really matter at this point? Not really.

3. Defense dominates: The Patriots starting defense was dominate limiting the Panthers starting offense to under 100 yards of total offense. The front seven was especially impressive notching four sacks.

4. Stidham plays two and a half quarters: Stidham took over for Brady and played the rest of the game. The rookie played with some of the ones and twos and continued to impress finishing 15 of 19 for 134 yards. Brian Hoyer did not play which has led to speculation that Hoyer may not make the team.

5. Cuts are coming: Bill Belichick and his staff will begin the process of making cuts in the coming days. With only one cut down window now, the Patriots will begin making decisions on players in the coming days.