Stud: Getting back on track
The biggest takeaway for the Patriots in Sunday’s win over the Raiders at Gillette Stadium was the fact that New England was able to get things back on track and avoid losing its second straight contest.
Coming off of a tough loss in Week 2 against Seattle, New England had the goal of returning back home to move back above the .500 mark while also remaining undefeated at home this season. With the win in Week 3, the Patriots were able to accomplish that while moving to 2-1 on the year going into Week 4.
Given how the Buffalo Bills have been playing to begin the season, it will be important for New England to take care of business to try and stay in contention for that top spot in the AFC East standings.
Dud: Taking advantage of turnovers
Although it wasn’t a huge issue, one minor dud for New England was the fact that its defense couldn’t fully take advantage of turnovers forced on that side of the ball. First, the Patriots didn’t manage to force Las Vegas into throwing an interception in the game, something they have had success in forcing opposing offenses into to begin this year.
New England did manage to force the Raiders into three fumbles in the game, however, but it would be great to see the Patriots take better advantage of those turnovers and turning them into points.
It didn’t ultimately have too much of a negative impact on New England in the game, but the Patriots will hope to not only continue to force turnovers but to turn those turnovers into points on the other side of the ball moving forward.