WATCH: Robert Kraft gives Jerod Mayo game ball after emotional win

The New England Patriots were riding high after Sunday’s 16-10 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Patriots owner Robert Kraft announced the first game ball of the season, and he gave it to coach Jerod Mayo.

Mayo helped the Patriots secure their first season-opening victory since the 2020 season. It was a game where the Patriots established their dominance on the ground by racking up 170 rushing yards.

The defense also stood out by holding a Joe Burrow-led Bengals team to 224 yards of total offense. Kraft was happy with the performance, and he credited the entire team for the victory before handing Mayo the game ball.

“Every one of you contributed. I’m so proud of the new players, the new coaches,” said Kraft. “People had all of the excuses. It couldn’t happen, but you all did it. I’m spoiled now. I’m going to count on a lot more.”

New England still has a long way to go in the 2024 season, as they continue to forge a new identity in the post-Bill Belichick era. Knocking off a likely playoff contender on the road is a great start.