3 Reasons the Patriots Will Upset the Eagles in Week 1
By Tyler Maher
2. Our Defense Gives Us a Chance
We sort of alluded to it above already, but if the Pats win this game, it will likely be because of their defense.
New England’s offense still has question marks, but its defense looks like one of the best in the NFL. This unit already ranked 11th in points and eighth in yards allowed last year.
The advanced numbers are maybe even more impressive. Pro Football Focus had them ranked No. 8 in the NFL and the Pats allowed the fourth-fewest yards per play to opposing offenses.
Not to mention that this group should be even better after Belichick spent his first three draft picks in the 2023 Draft on defensive players.
What’s more, the defense is healthy and fully rested, plus it’s had all summer to prepare for Philadelphia. This group is going to make life difficult for Hurts and co, especially since defenses tend to be ahead of offenses in Week 1 anyways.
If the Patriots can slow down the high-flying Eagles enough and hold them to 20-25 points, that will give Mac Jones and co. a chance. Belichick’s defenses have always excelled at bending without breaking, so look for Philly to settle for field goals rather than touchdowns.
If that happens, it will keep the game close and keep New England in the game until the end.