In his debut as head coach of the New England Patriots, Mike Vrabel didn’t hold back on criticism following the 20-13 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season. The coach spoke candidly and even sent a pointed message to Pete Carroll’s team, defining what they showed on the field.
Although the Patriots showed some solidity in the first half, heading into halftime with a 10-7 lead, the team was unable to maintain its pace or advantage for the rest of the game. An interception thrown by quarterback Drake Maye complicated Vrabel’s offensive plans.
The Raiders capitalized on a series of penalties called against the Patriots, who also faltered at key moments. New England’s defense couldn’t stop Carroll’s aerial attack, allowing Geno Smith to throw for over 350 yards. In t