Note: This is the official Pats Pulpit post-game discussion thread. Also, feel free to use this thread to discuss the afternoon games!
FINAL: 34 - 13
Football is back! And for Patriots fans, things have started pretty darn well, with the team securing a big 34-13 over the Tennessee Titans in their season opener.
It wasn't the most dominating game, as the game was more competitive than the score suggests. Nonetheless, the Patriots found ways to execute on both sides of the football. On offense, the Patriots were led by running back Stevan Ridley, who produced 125 yards and a touchdown on 21 carries. It's early, but Ridley looks as good as one could imagine on offense. Quarterback Tom Brady also looked sharp for most of the game, completing 23 of 31 passes for 234 yards and two touchdowns, one to each of his tight ends, Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez.
Defensively, there was a lot to be excited about. Aside from the two opening half drives, the Titans struggled to put up any yardage or points against the young unit. The produced solid pressure, with cornerback Devin McCourty, defensive tackle Vince Wilfork, and linebacker Jerod Mayo all turning in strong performances. Oh, and did I mention the rookies? The Patriots top three draft picks, defensive end Chandler Jones, linebacker Dont'a Hightower, and safety Tavon Wilson, all came up with big plays. Tavon Wilson had an acrobatic interception in the end zone off a Kyle Arrington tipped pass in the first half, and it was a Chandler Jones strip-sack off Jake Locker that was returned for a touchdown by Hightower that really shifted momentum in the first half.
I also can't write anything about this game without mentioning the run defense. Overall, the unit held Chris Johnson to four yards on 11 carries. Simply suffocating.
Much more to come.