New England Patriots: 3 observations from first preseason game

Running backs dominate

One of the only bright spots to come out of the Patriots first preseason game was the running backs. They came out with a bang and were one of the main reasons the Patriots ended up winning the game.

Jeremy Hill had a dominant game. As soon as he entered he had an impact. Hill showed great vision and made some great cuts. He had 11 carries for 51 yards and a touchdown. Hill’s yards per carry (4.6) show that when he is handed the ball he makes the most out of it.

If Hill keeps playing like this it looks like we will be saying adios to Mike Gillislee.

Another impressive back was Ralph Webb. Webb is an undrafted free agent out of Vanderbilt. In the Patriots first preseason game, he had 14 carries for 46 yards and 2 touchdowns. It may have been against the 3rd stringers, but Webb showed some promise that may end up in him getting a roster spot.

The first couple of preseason games are about knocking the rust off. Hopefully, the Patriots will look at the tape and improve on their problem areas. It looks like they will have plenty of work to do.

For the players who struggled it will be a game to forget, but the players who excelled will be looking to build off of a strong showing.

The Patriots take the field once again next Thursday when they take on the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles.