Patriots vs. Panthers Preseason: Drake Debut, Halftime Highlights

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — A new era is officially underway for the New England Patriots.

With new head coach Jerod Mayo coaching his first professional football game, the fresh-faced Patriots welcomed the Carolina Panthers to Gillette Stadium for their preseason opener.

Though many Patriots players are expected to garner some attention during Thursday’s matchup, the offense — primarily the quarterbacks — have absorbed the majority of the spotlight, thus far.

Drake Maye’s First Series

With veteran (and projected starter) Jacoby Brissett having navigated New England’s first drive, the No. 3 overall pick in April’s Draft took the field to lead the Patriots on their second offensive series. In his inaugural drive as both a Patriot and a pro quarterback, Maye completed two of his passes for 19 yards — with both of his completions coming on screen passes. Maye’s sole misfire sailed a bit high off play action, but still hit receiver Jalen Reagor in the hands for relatively catchable pass.

Patriots Strike First

Folliwing a scoreless opening quarter, the Pats lit the Stadium scoreboard for the game’s first touchdown drive with just under eight minutes remaining in the second period. Veteran Bailey Zappe led the Patriots on a five-play, 31-yard drive in just 1:34. The series was sparked by a 23-yard punt return from training camp standout David Wallis. Zappe then connected with receiver Kayshon Boutte for a 28-yard high-point catch which brought New England to the Panthers’ 3-yard line.

Running back Kevin Harris capped the drive with a two-yard rush, while a Chad Ryland extra point gave the Patriots a 7-0 lead.

The Patriots and Panthers will take the field for the second half momentarily.