NFL Week 1 Game Recap: Philadelphia Eagles 25, New England Patriots 20

The team that spoiled the 2017 Super Bowl for Tom Brady was in town for his New England Patriots Ring of Honor ceremony, and the same Philadelphia Eagles spoiled the festivities once again with a 25-20 win that ended with the Patriots failing to convert late down in the red zone. 

Offensive spotlight: Eagles wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith each hauled in seven receptions. Running back Kenneth Gainwell was the only back to tote the rock more than a single time, racking up 54 yards on the ground with an added 20 yards on four receptions. The reigning NFC champions were very sluggish on offense, ,averaging just 4.1 yards per play, but they did just enough to get a big Week 1 win on the road. 

Mac Jones found wide receiver Kendrick Bourne for two touchdowns after Bourne scored just once in 2022. The Patriots quarterback finished the game 7-of-14 for 104 yards and three touchdowns on passes thrown 10-plus yards downfield, and he was credited with five big-time throws on first review.

Defensive spotlight: Eagles cornerback Darius Slay returned an interception 70 yards for a touchdown 10 minutes into the game to help Philadelphia jump out to a 10-0 lead. On the very next offensive snap for the Patriots, linebacker Zach Cunningham forced a fumble on running back Ezekiel Elliott. Once Philadelphia went up 16-0, it was simply too much for the Patriots to overcome despite the valiant effort.

Patriots edge defenders Matthew Judon and Josh Uche picked up where they left off in 2022, each recording a sack. Overall, New England held the Eagles to under 4.0 yards per carry and just 4.3 yards per pass, limiting Philadelphia as much as any team did throughout 2022. 

Rookie spotlight: Eagles first-round interior defender Jalen Carter recorded his first career sack and tackle for loss in his debut, flashing the elite athleticism that landed him in the top 10 while rotating with a deep defensive line unit. 

Patriots first-round rookie cornerback Christian Gonzalez recorded a sack, tackle for loss and five additional solo tackles as the New England defense held the high-flying Eagles offense in check for most of the afternoon.

Box Score

Passing

Rushing

Receiving