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Essay: Milton Steals the Show in Pats’ Preseason Starter
The New England Patriots kicked off their preseason with a bang, and boy, did some players really stand out! But, the one guy who stole the show was none other than Ja’Whaun Bentley Milton. This dude went above and beyond what everyone thought he could do, even impressing the heck out of his coach, Jerod Mayo. This little essay here’s gonna chat about how Milton’s game in the opener showed everyone how much he’s grown, and what that could mean for the Pats’ season ahead.
The Lowdown: Preseason Begins
So, the preseason is like the first day of school for NFL teams. It’s when all the new kids and old pros get to show their stuff without the pressure of the big games just yet. The coaches are on the lookout for who’s got potential and who’s going to shine. For the Pats, coming off a couple of tough seasons, the Houston Texans game was a big deal. It was their chance to show everyone they’re not messing around in 2024.
Now, Jerod Mayo, the linebackers coach, is a tough cookie. He’s played the game, so he knows what it takes to be great. And, let’s be real, he’s not one to throw around compliments easily. So, when he had big things to say about Milton, you know it’s a big deal.
Milton’s Time to Shine
Ja’Whaun Bentley Milton, this fifth-year linebacker from Purdue, has been grinding away since he got picked by the Pats in 2018. He wasn’t exactly a superstar right out of the gate, but he’s been getting better every year. He’s got that special mix of smarts, hustle, and brute force that you want in a linebacker.
This preseason game was his moment. He came out like a lion, making tackles all over the place, breaking up passes like he was a wide receiver, and just being a rock for the team. He’s always been solid, but this game? He was unreal.
The Opener: Milton’s Mega Moment
When the Pats faced the Houston Texans, Milton was the talk of the town. He was everywhere, making plays like it was his job (because, well, it is). The confidence he had was off the charts. He read the plays like a book and was all over the field, being a nightmare for Houston’s offense.
The coolest part was when he made that big third-down stop. The quarterback threw a pass, and Milton was on it like white on rice. It showed everyone he’s not just about smashing into guys; he’s got the smarts to read the game, too.
Mayo’s face said it all. He couldn’t hide his excitement on the sidelines. He talked about how Milton’s prep work was top-notch and how he’s turned into a leader on the field. He said Milton set the bar high, and that’s what they need all season long.
How This Changes Things for the Team
With Milton playing like a champ, the whole defense is going to have to step up. It’s like he’s thrown down the gauntlet, saying, “Let’s go, I’m setting the pace.” This is going to push everyone to play their best, and that’s what you want on a team.
And let’s not forget, the Pats’ defense is a big part of their plan. With Milton playing like this, they can switch things up and keep the other teams guessing. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife out there; he can do it all.
Plus, the young guys are going to be looking up to him now. They’ll want to be like him, putting in the work and playing big when it counts. It’s going to be good for team spirit, you know?
What’s Next for the Pats?
So, what does this all mean for the Pats’ season? Well, it’s just one game, but Milton’s performance is a great sign. If he keeps playing like this, the defense could be something special. And if the defense is rock solid, it gives the offense more chances to do their thing.
But, let
