The New England Patriots kicked off their preseason with a 20-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers, a game marked by the return of a key rookie and a rough start for the Panthers' new offensive scheme.
Gonzalez's Comeback a Bright Spot
The most notable event for the Patriots was the return of cornerback Christian Gonzalez, the team's 2023 first-round pick. Gonzalez, who had been sidelined with a shoulder injury, played six snaps in his first action since Week 4 last season. While he didn't record any statistics, his presence on the field provided a much-needed boost for a Patriots defense that struggled at times last year.
"He looked solid and aggressive," said a source close to the team. "It was great to see him back out there, and it's a sign that he's on his way to returning to form."
Gonzalez's return is a positive sign for the Patriots, who are looking to build on their 8-9 record from last season. His presence alongside fellow cornerbacks Jonathan Jones and Jack Jones could give the Patriots one of the most formidable secondary units in the league.
Canales' Offense Faces Rough Debut
The Panthers, on the other hand, had a less auspicious start to their preseason. New head coach Dave Canales, who took over for the fired Steve Wilks, saw his offense struggle against a strong Patriots defense.
Undrafted free agent quarterback Jack Plummer, starting in place of the injured Andy Dalton and absent Bryce Young, was sacked five times and struggled to find a rhythm. The Panthers' offensive line, a major concern last season, looked porous against the Patriots' front seven.
"It was arduous not to feel bad for Jack Plummer," a fan wrote on social media. "He was pummeled by the Patriots. It's the preseason, but the optics for Canales were bad."
The Panthers' struggles on offense are a cause for concern. They finished 2-15 last season, and their offense was a major contributor to that dismal record. If Canales and the Panthers can't find a way to improve their offensive line and generate more points, they could be in for another long season.
Looking Ahead
The Patriots' preseason opener was a mixed bag. While Gonzalez's return is a positive sign, the Panthers' offensive struggles raise questions about Canales' ability to turn around the franchise.
It's important to remember that it's just the preseason, and there's still plenty of time for both teams to make adjustments. However, the early returns suggest that the Patriots are on the right track, while the Panthers have a long road ahead of them.
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