"With a little more time to ponder how the opener played out, it wasn't that bad. It was frustrating, sure, particularly since the Patriots were sloppy (nine penalties) and the defense got burned repeatedly for huge gains. Vrabel was supposed to turn this into a tough, disciplined team, and the Patriots certainly were not that in Game 1. It was a reminder, maybe a necessary one, that this rebuild is going to take time"
"The Dolphins act as if their offense is a combination of the Greatest Show on Turf Rams, the Air Coryell Chargers, and every team Randy Moss played on when he was fully engaged. But they need perfect conditions to be at their best, and they sure seem inclined to fold whenever challenged. This game is a fine opportunity for Vrabel's Patriots to prove that last week was a hiccup, and discipline and toughness will be hallmarks soon enough."
Mike Vrabel's era began with a 20-13 loss to the Raiders that echoed recent Patriots struggles. The Patriots committed nine penalties and allowed repeated big defensive gains, exposing issues in discipline and execution. The team remains in a rebuild shaped by poor drafts, and second-year quarterback Drake Maye showed promise with 287 passing yards despite becoming jittery in the second half. Growing pains are expected to continue. The Dolphins possess significant talent but lack chemistry and often air internal issues publicly. Miami suffered a 33-8 loss to the Colts and tends to falter when challenged. Sunday offers a chance for the Patriots to demonstrate improved toughness and discipline.
Read at Boston.com
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