The Patriots’ 21-17 loss to the Raiders virtually eliminated them from playoff contention this season. Speculation over Bill Belichick’s job security is at an all-time high, particularly after last night’s flurry of flags and self-inflicted mistakes.<\/p>\n
But despite New England’s performance in Vegas being far from perfect, it was the best we’ve seen the team in weeks. The offense had its best game of the season by EPA metrics and cracked a 4.0-yard rushing average for the first time this season. Ezekiel Elliott’s rushing touchdown in the 3rd quarter marked the unit’s first score since Pharaoh Brown’s long catch and run back in Week 3.<\/p>\n
Defensively, an injury-stricken unit lived up to the classic “bend but don’t break” mantra, allowing just one touchdown despite six Red Zone trips. Jabrill Peppers also ended the defense’s three-game turnover drought with a hit that could be heard from Foxborough.<\/p>\n
There will be some difficult big-picture questions on the horizon, and make no mistake, I have no intention of making excuses for this team. But for now, let’s focus on the tales of the tape and see where the Patriots stand heading into a tough matchup against the Bills next Sunday.<\/p>\n
Passing Offense Patches Holes with Quick Game<\/strong><\/p>\n Mac Jones averaged his fastest time to throw (2.20 sec) and shortest average depth of target (5.5 yards) of the season against the Raiders. This was likely due to a combination of Jones’ own struggles, rookies starting at each guard spot, and Vederian Lowe having to hold up against Maxx Crosby.<\/p>\n When Jones got the ball out in under 2.5 seconds, he completed 20 of 25 passes and averaged 7.0 yards\/attempt. Kendrick Bourne thrived in these opportunities, catching all ten of his targets while forcing three missed tackles and generating two plays of 15+ yards.<\/p>\n