Halftime: New England Patriots Lead Carolina Panthers 7-0

New England Patriots football is back! The 2024 NFL season is officially here as the Patriots first preseason game against the Carolina Panthers is underway.

At halftime of the matchup, the Patriots lead the Panthers by a score of 7-0. The game was marked by an opening drive manned by Jacoby Brissett that did not see any success after an 11-yard Rhamondre Stevenson carry. An under throw from Brissett ended his only drive.

Brissett finished 0/3 on the night.

The most anticipated moment of the night came and went quickly when Drake Maye made his Patriots debut , but also for just one drive. Maye completed two of his three attempts, both screen passes. The incompletion went through the hands of Jalen Reagor on what would have been a tough play:

After Maye checked out, Bailey Zappe came in and struggled at first, but would lead the only touchdown drive which was highlighted by a bullet to Kayshon Boutte to set up a Kevin Harris run:

Ja'Lynn Polk also made his first two catches of his preseason career, both from the arm of Zappe and one for a 3rd down conversion:

The game will also be the first under the new head coaching regime led by former player Jerod Mayo. He takes over with huge shoes to fill after New England moved on from future Hall of Fame coach Bill Belichick after 24 seasons.

Be sure to stay up to date with Patriots Country to catch more highlights and analysis from Thursday’s Preseason opener.