Patriots Fans Should Be Patient After Turbulent Start

In Miami, the Patriots offense made key strides. Maye rebounded, finishing 19/23 for 230 yards, two passing touchdowns, and one rushing touchdown. The run game also improved significantly, with the Patriots running backs combining for 91 rush yards on 19 carries (4.8 yards per carry).

The offensive line held strong against a good Miami front, with rookie left guard Jared Wilson and rookie left tackle Will Campbell allowing zero pressures in their first road start, a massive improvement over Week 1.

Defensive Concerns

After Week 1, the Patriots ranked 26th defensively according to Pro Football Focus. Issues in both coverage and tackling led to the Raiders producing nine plays of 20+ yards through the air. The absence of All-Pro cornerback Christian Gonzalez loomed large, as New England’s secondary struggled to contain Geno Smith and the Raiders pass catchers. 

The run defense was more reliable, ranking eighth in the league for Week 1 per PFF. The Patriots’ front limited fifth overall pick in 2025, Ashton Jeanty, to just two yards per carry, bottling up the Raiders’ rushing attack. 

Week 2 showcased the same ups and downs. New England’s secondary without Gonzalez is a massive concern, allowing 315 yards and two touchdowns to Tua Tagovailoa. The defense tightened up in the fourth quarter, picking off the Miami quarterback with 2:12 left to play. A clutch fourth-down sack by Milton Williams sealed the game.

Ultimately, the Patriots must address their tendency to give up explosive plays through the air. For the second week in a row, the Patriots allowed multiple 20-plus yard gains that kept Miami in the game. Until the Patriots coverage improves, giving up big passing plays will remain a major concern for a team that showed significant improvement in Week 2.

Fan Sentiment and Expectations

For a fanbase eager to turn the page, the Week 1 loss was a sobering reminder of where this team stands. Fans should still feel optimistic towards their new head coach and second-year quarterback, but expectations should be tempered. While frustration is high, growing pains are part of the process for a roster that is still being rebuilt.

The key now is perspective. Maye will improve, Vrabel’s culture will be established, and the Patriots will find an identity on both sides of the ball. For fans, the challenge is to measure progress not only in wins and losses, but also in how the team improves week to week.

Week 2 demonstrated that even after getting exposed in the opener, this team has the ability to respond, adjust, and compete at the highest level. The patience shown by the fans will pay off if the coaching staff and young talent on this team continue to build each week.