That is more like it!
After Week 3, there were major concerns about the Patriots coaching and fundamentals.
This game, albeit against a struggling Panthers side, was a far cleaner game.
Here are the key takeaways.
The Drake-down
Drake Maye has flashed potential since joining the team. However, he has shown signs of serious development in the small sample size that is the 2025 season.
Each week, Maye seems more and more comfortable in the McDaniels offense. McDaniels’ ability to utilise his quarterback’s athleticism as part of both the running and passing game with zone reads and moving pockets has really added to Maye’s game.
Keeping Maye on a pitch count also seems to be a key component of his success. As Pats nation will be aware, he is prone to the odd turnover-worthy play.
However, looking at the analytics, Maye has looked his best when the Patriots limit his number of dropbacks.
In Week 2 and Week 4, he had 31 and 21 dropbacks, respectively. In those games, the Patriots put up 30+ points on offense and Maye is responsible for six touchdowns and no turnover-worthy plays.
However, in Week 1 and Week 3, Maye dropped back 53 and 47 times, in which, he was responsible for three touchdowns and four turnover-worthy plays.
It is also worth mentioning that his best games have also coincided with Will Campbell’s best outings. Campbell has allowed eight pressures so far this season, and all eight came in Week 1 or Week 3.
Slow starts on defense
The defense certainly warmed up and played well after the first drive of the game.
However, penalties and missed assignments again allowed a team to go down the field and score on their opening drive.
This marks the third time in four games that a Patriots opponent has scored a touchdown on their opening offensive drive.
I am not sure if it is a gameplan issue or a preparedness issue, but the mental errors and lack of polish to open games is still a concern for me on defense.
Special (teams) shoutout
I just wanted to wrap up with a shoutout for Marcus Jones and the special teams unit of the Patriots.
Jones set a franchise record in punt return yardage in a single game – 167 yards – and made a strong statement for the title of best punt returner in the league.
If a team kicks to Marcus again this season, I would be surprised and very delighted!
