New England Patriots: Five Takeaways From 41-14 Blowout Loss To The Chiefs

Sep 29, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Tamba Hali (91) causes a fumble from New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City won 41-14. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

4. Offensive Line

All things considered, the offensive line play was not the worst thing that happened last night. Yes, it was bad, and it continues to plague New England’s offense, but they performed much better than I anticipated.

The Patriots inserted Bryan Stork and Cameron Fleming into the starting five for their first NFL starts, and I think one earned his way into the starting rotation for the rest of the year, and one played his way out of game-time. Stork was very good, as there were no bad snaps, no false starts, and overall, he was good in pass protection. Fleming on the other hand, did not fare as well, and I don’t think he will be starting anytime soon.

Nate Solder had possibly the worst game of his young career, and he got legitimately benched in favor of Marcus Cannon late in the game. Coming into this season, Solder was considered to be one of the best left tackles in the game, and he was going to be a strong-point of this offense. And yet, he just got benched.

The Pats’ offensive line is in shambles, and it doesn’t look like there is a quick fix to this problem. Look for the coaching staff to continue to switch things up going forward, as they try to find a solution to this mess.