Matt's Pats Blog

• First things first, the Pats used a 4-man front all night. Can we stop asking about it now?

• The Patriots’ 47-12 win the most points scored in a preseason game in their franchise history. The previous record was 45 in 1977.

• Belichick will be stressing ball control next week in practice. Of our 3 fumbles, 2 bounced right back in to our arms. That’s nothing more than luck.

• Dane Fletcher, primarily a special-teams contributor last year, proved he can handle his own on the defensive side of the ball.

• Stevan Ridley made the most of his extra reps in practice and in the game. Chalk it up to good luck and good planning. His agent, Andy Simms, made sure he had a signed contract before practices started. He did the same thing with Devin McCourty last year.

• Taylor Price showcased his hands and his agility, breaking some big plays down the sidelines. He missed most of last year’s camp due to a late graduation, and thus didn’t do much throughout the year. Many consider him a redshirt rookie.

• Brian Hoyer will keep the 2nd string QB job, but Ryan Mallett is right on his heels. There’s not much to differentiate them here, except for experience.

• Mark Anderson didn’t get a sack, but I counted at least 2 sacks that he directly caused.

• Matthew Slater is fighting for that roster spot. I think he’s a lock as a special teams gunner, but he showed he can catch, too.

• Gostkowski is good to go.

• UMass-alum Chris Koepplin showcased his powerful leg during kickoffs, albeit from the 35 yard line.

• Darius Butler continues to disappoint. Opposing QBs seem to pick on him. Not a good sign.

• Ivy Leaguer Buddy Farnham impressed with his 2-way contributions (including an INT). It looked like he didn’t see a pass his way early in the game, but made up for it later with strong play on both sides of the ball.

• Two Jacksonville Jaguars players may have a bill from the NFL coming their way shortly. Late hits to the head = fine. It’s just a pity that it’s happening in preseason.

• At the end of the day, opposing GMs must be licking their lips. There’s a lot of talent the Patriots showcased that will have to be let go when the roster size shrinks.

Finally. It’s back.

After a lockout scare, a crazy few days in late July, and some huge (literally) new players, I have one question for you …

Are you ready for some football?!