The Patriots came from behind to beat the Buffalo Bills 29-25. It is the Patriots first win over the Bills since 2021 and their first home win against them since 2019. Needless to say, the vibe in the locker room was drastically different than what we have seen in recent weeks.
Here are seven points from today’s game.
1.Patriots come from behind to win a classic: The Patriots finally had a signature win this season. They lost similar games to open the season to Philadelphia and Miami but after a tough four game stretch where they went 1-3, the Patriots finally put it all together and had the kind of win we saw around these parts for 20 years.
2. Patriots open the game with their best quarter of the season: The Patriots finally got off to a good start offensively. They got a field goal on the opening drive and then scored a touchdown on their next possession when Ezekiel Elliott punched it home from two yards out. They did their best in the second half to potentially squander it all but they did not. They came from behind and picked up a much needed home win. They were winless in three previous home games.
3. Defense once again rises to the occasion: The defense played well for most of the game. They could have been better the final five minutes but overall, they did their job today. They shutdown the Bills high powered offense for most of the game. When they needed to make stops, they made them and in the end, that is all that matters.
4. Demario Douglas “Pops”: Demario Douglas was a factor offensively. His stat line wasn’t impressive but his performance was. Douglas impacted this game. He caught 4 passes for 54 yards and had a run of 20 yards on a jet sweep. The Bills had to account for him and I thought Bill O’Brien did a good job of moving him around and manufacturing touches for him. Douglas needs to touch the ball 10-15 times a game or more. Look for the Patriots to get more and more involved as the season goes on.
5. Barmore was a beast: Christian Barmore was a monster today. He was unblockable at times and looked like the best defensive player on the field. When he is focused and motivated, he is one of the best interior defensive lineman in the league. He was that today as he consistently forced Josh Allen to get out of the pocket and have to throw on the run.
6. Bill wins #300: With today’s win, Bill Belichick now has 300 wins. He trials only Don Shula and George Halas for most wins all-time. He joined them today as the only coaches to win 300 games or more in NFL History. It has not been a great season for the Patriots thus far but it is great to see Belichick earn this milestone while still coaching in New England.
7. Honoring Scar and Vrabs: Former offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia and linebacker Mike Vrabel were honored at halftime. The two of course were inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame yesterday. It was great to see both back especially Vrabel who hasn’t been around much since he was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs in 2009. Today felt like the good ol days at the stadium and it was fun.