"The 2024 season began with a win under the new leadership of Jerod Mayo and his inexperienced coaching staff. The team shocked the NFL world by stealing a win against the Bengals on the road, and it appeared as though the Mayo era could be far better than predicted. Ironically, it wouldn't be too outlandish to say that fans should want to see Mike Vrabel imitate Mayo in this game, but only in the way of ending the afternoon 1-0."
"There's not a whole lot about Mayo's tenure that Patriots fans should want to see replicated this year, and Vrabel has already done a good job at ensuring that hasn't happened. And while that should remain moving forward, ending Week 1 with a win, just like Mayo did last year, would be an excellent start for the new regime to begin the season."
"Although the Raiders aren't exactly the same caliber as the Bengals were or are at this point, they are still a team with impressive talent in multiple areas that will give the Patriots problems throughout the day. From TE Brock Bowers and RB Ashton Jeanty on offense to Maxx Crosby on defense, it's going to be far from an easy day for the young Patriots team."
The Patriots open the 2025 season at Gillette Stadium against the Las Vegas Raiders, with Josh McDaniels returning to Foxboro after his 2023 firing by Las Vegas. That narrative increases pressure for the Patriots to secure a Week 1 victory. The 2024 season started with Jerod Mayo leading the team to an upset road win over the Bengals, suggesting early optimism. Fans want Mike Vrabel to deliver a similar 1-0 start while avoiding Mayo-era instability; Vrabel has taken steps to prevent repetition of past issues. The Raiders possess notable talent—Brock Bowers, Ashton Jeanty, Maxx Crosby—that will challenge the young Patriots. There is more fan comfort compared to last year.
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