Patriots Game 1 Wrap: Ridley Stands Out
BOSTON (CBS) - After a slow start, the New England Patriots kicked into high gear and looked good in their 47-12 win over the Jaguars.
A couple stars stood out in this game.
On offense, Stevan Ridley was a standout. The rookie caught the ball and ran it between the tackles. He looked liked he has in camp; solid. The Pats need that until Kevin Faulk gets back. Ridley finished with three touchdowns and over 100 all-purpose yards (64 rushing and 47 receiving).
Brian Hoyer was also solid as he got the start at quarterback. 15 for 21, 171 yards and one touchdown. He had control of the offense and the team moved the ball. I think right now he looks like a good backup.
The surprise of the night was Ryan Mallett. I thought he would struggle but he did not look that bad. The Pats had him in the hurry-up, in the shotgun and under center. He also ran and did a QB keeper. He looked good in his first go out there on the field, showing some good leadership qualities. Mallett finished the night 12 for 19 with 164 yards and a touchdown.
Taylor Price may have won himself a spot on this team. He returned the ball well and was a strong receiver, hauling in five passes for 105 yards and a score. Price had the catch of the night and showed yards after the catch capabilities. Brandon Tate has not shown what Price has shown and that's because Tate is hurt. Price is much better than he was last year as he looks to grab that last receiver spot.
On defense, Dane Fletcher was the star. With big stops in the early goings, he reminded me of Ted Johnson out there. Darryl Richards finished the night with 2 sacks and had a pass break-up in the fourth quarter.
Not bad, but again, this was only the first preseason game and mostly the second string got the run of the place.
The biggest applause of the night came on Buddy Farnham's fourth quarter interception. The usual wide receiver was inserted on the defensive side of the ball and came up with a pick. The Andover native and Brown alum was mobbed by his teammates and brought a smile to coach Bill Belichick's face.
Read: Third Quarter Highs and Lows
