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Studs and Duds from the Pats’ Preseason Win Against the Panthers Patriots
So, the New England Patriots started their 2024 preseason with a face-off against the Carolina Panthers, and let me tell you, it was a game that had everyone on the edge of their seats. It’s like the first day of school, but for football players – some come out shining and others, well, not so much. This little write-up is about the guys who stood out as either the cool kids or the ones who still need to find their lunch table.
Studs
- Malik Cunningham – The Swiss Army Knife of QBs
This undrafted rookie quarterback from Louisville, Malik Cunningham, totally stole the show. Dude played like he had something to prove and boy, did he ever. He’s got this dual-threat vibe that’s like a young Tyrod Taylor, all athletic and making plays with his legs. His throws on the run were pretty sweet too. Sure, he’s got some work to do with his pocket awareness and decision-making, but he’s definitely got that “it” factor. Plus, in a league that’s all about those mobile QBs, he’s looking like a real find.
- Demario Douglas – The New Face of the Receiving Game
Demario Douglas, a sixth-round pick, totally owned the field as a wide receiver. This guy’s got moves! Good routes, quick feet, and hands that just don’t quit. He’s giving us a taste of what we might miss with Jakobi Meyers being gone. If he keeps this up, he could be the go-to slot guy for our QBs.
- Christian Gonzalez – The Shutdown Rookie Patriots
First-rounder Christian Gonzalez didn’t disappoint in his first preseason game. He’s got that “I got this” vibe at cornerback. The Panthers’ receivers didn’t stand a chance with him around. It’s like he’s got some kind of radar for the ball. Since Gilmore left, we’ve been missing that top-notch cover guy, and if this kid keeps it up, he could be the one to fill those big shoes.
- Bailey Zappe – The Steady Sub Patriots
Backup QB Bailey Zappe had a game that made everyone breathe a little easier. With Mac Jones being the main man, it’s good to know we’ve got a solid plan B. Zappe was cool under pressure, making good decisions and tossing darts all over the field. He’s definitely got the hang of the Pats’ offense, and after seeing some other backup QBs flounder this week, he’s looking pretty darn good.
Duds
- Kevin Harris – Struggling to Make His Mark Patriots
Kevin Harris, our running back, had a bit of a rough start against the Panthers. Couldn’t find a hole to save his life, and when he did, he couldn’t break those tackles. It’s tough when you’ve got Stevenson and Elliott ahead of you, so he really needed to bring it. Instead, he’s got us wondering if he’ll even make the final cut.
- Riley Reiff – The Vet Who’s Struggling Patriots
Riley Reiff, our veteran offensive tackle, had a rough go of it. He’s supposed to be the rock, but he let those Panthers get to our QB too many times. That’s not what you want, especially when you’re trying to keep the young gunslingers safe. We might need to look at some other options if he doesn’t step it up.
- Trey Nixon – The Wideout Who’s Not Winning Out
Trey Nixon had a game that was, well, not his best. He had more drops than a hot potato and couldn’t shake those defenders. In an offense that’s all about timing and precision, that’s not gonna cut it. With other receivers killing it, like Douglas and Thornton, he’s gotta pick up the pace or he might not be sticking around.
