Patriots allow opening-drive points for first time this season

Previous 5 opponents punted on their first possessions.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 1h1 min read

From ESPN Research: Patriots allow points on their opponents' first drive for the first time this season. Entering this Via @MikeReiss on X

What happened: An opening-series score put 3 points on the board against New England on Sunday, per ESPN Research and Mike Reiss, before the Patriots answered to take a 7-3 lead with the game in progress.

Why it matters: Fast starts have anchored a New England Patriots defense that consistently dictated early field position through the opening weeks of the 2026 regular season. Answering immediately on the scoreboard kept the early deficit from altering the flow of Sunday's matchup.

What to watch: Play continues as New England looks to tighten up defensively over the remaining quarters.

Sources

@MikeReiss 2026-10-18T17:17:05.104269+00:00

Box score

CONVERSATION

Loading comments…

NFLAnalysisNew England Patriots

Follow NFL Intelligence

Real-time signals and analysis

@WireReportNFL

WR Pro

The day's sports, briefed to your inbox at 7am ET. Every claim sourced.

$9/month Free weekly newsletter →