Post-Game Thoughts
- I thought Drake played very well. Outside of the INT, he was exceptional. Truthfully, I'd rather my QB (the 2nd youngest starting QB in the NFL right now) keep pushing the ball and learn from his mistakes than be a dink-and-dunk QB who limits himself because he's afraid to throw picks. That said, let's keep improving. This was Drake's first mental mistake in about 4 weeks. Mistakes also show up in different ways; I'd argue Caleb's sack (in a vacuum) was just as costly. Outside the INT, Drake faced 15 pressures and still put up 347 total yards and 3 total TDs on 77.4% completion. The advanced metrics were great too. Like Mike Vrabel said, he gave us a chance last night, and I'm happy he's ours.
- I thought Caleb Williams was awesome. His sack avoidance was on full display. Even when Zak Kuhr dialled up the perfect blitz, it wasn't enough because Caleb found a way out of it. He was accurate, decisive, and clutch on 3rd down. He was a big reason for their success last night.
- I said it before the game, and I'll say it again: Drake and Caleb are the future of this league. It's good for the sport to have two guys this young who can go toe to toe and deliver top-tier QB play. Players like this don't come around often, so appreciate them while they're here.
- I thought Vrabel managed the game really well. I haven't read up on it yet, but my guess is he'd have gone for it on that 4th down too. After the first couple of drives, McDaniels got comfortable and called a much better game than the pundits will give him credit for.
- As much as I hate any loss, I'm not that mad about this one. On the road, banged up, and the team still played well. Chicago is a great opponent, and we gave them a good run despite the circumstances.
- I really hope we make a move at the deadline. Quenton Nelson is worth it. I don't think you can trust AVT to be healthy this season.
- AJ has been extremely frustrating. I can't imagine he's playing at 100% right now, so I'll stay patient, but he's due for a big game. The two deep balls he dropped were beautiful throws by Drake. We need more out of a player we traded this much to go get. Simple as that.
- The Patriots 2026 Draft class is incredible. Lomu, Jacas, and Raridon will all be long-time contributors for this team.