After a couple weeks of practice, though no joint work against another team, the Patriots will finally get to see a different squad in Thursday night's preseason opener in Foxborough against the Redskins.
Preseason game action is the next step for players as they prepare for the regular season as well as compete for roster spots and roles in New England.
The Boston Globe writes that pass rusher Deatrich Wise Jr. is looking forward to hitting the quarterback against Washington, something that's not allowed in practice action. The Globe's Wednesday practice report observes that Tom Brady’s workload increased just a bit during what has been a quiet week of work of the quarterback. Given the rules changes enacted by the NFL this season, the Globe says to expect plenty of flags to fly in Thursday night’s preseason opener.
Boston Globe columnist Chris Gasper says that part of Bill Belichick’s genius is that his decisions as a coach cover up for his decisions as a GM.
The Boston Herald offers up five things to watch for in the Patriots preseason opener. The Herald also has officials predicting plenty of flags to open up summer action.
The Providence Journal has its five things to watch for on Thursday night. The Pro Jo writes that tight end Jacob Hollister is making a real jump in his second season in New England. The Pro Jo observes that sure-handed veteran safety Patrick Chung could be a factor as a punt returner for the Patriots.
ESPNBoston.com writes that the Patriots could use a youthful spark this season from Isaiah Wynn and the rest of the 2018 rookie class.
WEEI.com explains the new helmet rule that will lead to a lot of flags being thrown in preseason action this August. WEEI.com takes a look at history to try and figure out of Brady will play in the preseason opener. WEEI.com's Wednesday practice report has rain affecting what New England could do on the field.
NBC Sports Boston writes that the helmet rule is the latest in a long list of mistakes made by the NFL. NBC Sports Boston's postcard from camp has a look at the final prep for preseason action. NBC Sports Boston looks at Christian Sam trying to make the roster.
NFL.com predicts what to watch for in each of the preseason games set for this weekend.
MassLive.com lists 10 things learned from two weeks of training camp practice.
The Washington Post has a Redskins look heading into the preseason opener.
The Concord Monitor looks at factors to watch as the Patriots dynasty continues to defy logic.
The Colorado Springs Gazette explains how much the Patriots paid to work out at the Air Force Academy last season in advance of their game in Mexico.
