The Patriots entered the 2025 season with genuine optimism under new head coach Mike Vrabel and an active offseason that saw them add key pieces to the roster in free agency and through the draft. The defense was expected to take a leap, and second-year QB Drake Maye was discussed as a rising star. New England was projected for 8.5 wins and sleeper potential in a winnable AFC East.

But Week 1 delivered a sobering reality check. Many viewed the Raiders as beatable, but the Pats managed to lose 20-13 in a sloppy, low-scoring match at Gillette Stadium. Maye showed flashes of big-play ability but got battered behind an offensive line that allowed 9 QB hits and 4 sacks. Insult to injury: Geno Smith broke a 45-year franchise record for most passing yards in his debut as a Raider. Ouch!

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