Takeaways From the Patriots Stunning Victory Over the Bengals

In one of the biggest surprises of the opening weekend, the Patriots had a stunning 16-10 victory over Joe Burrow and the Bengals. With this win, the Jerod Mayo era in New England is off to a great start. This was a true New England Patriots-type win on the road. Despite their lack of talent, they made up for it with sound play in all three phases of the game. So what are the takeaways from this game moving forward for both of these teams?

This Bengals Offensive Line is Highly Questionable

Seemingly every year we are questioning this offensive line’s ability to protect Joe Burrow. However, more than that, this team failed to get the running game going consistently. When the running game is failing a team, pass rushers will become more aggressive, making playing from behind even harder on the offensive line. This resulted in Joe Burrow getting sacked three times in this game and him under relentless pressure all game long.

The Ressurection of Rhamondre Stevenson

What a day for Rhamondre Stevenson and this Patriots rushing attack. The Patriots have long been committed to the running game and it paid off for them. Stevenson finished the day with 120 yards and a touchdown on 25 carries. This offensive line showed great push in their first showing on the road. If the Patriots can continue to get production like this from their offensive line and running game then that will help Jacoby Brissett and this Patriots’ offense in a multitude of ways.

The Patriots Winning the Patriot Way

Although Bill Belichick is gone, this felt like a Belichick-type way to win. The Patriots forced turnovers on important plays, including on special teams, and played stout defense. Even with Matthew Judon gone, this Patriots’ defense came to make a statement in the Bengals home opener. This defensive effort, combined with a more conservative offensive approach, was enough to get the win by playing good complementary football.