Patriots: 6 Frustrations from Week 17 loss

4. First quarter play

With under five minutes to go in the first quarter, the Patriots had mustered just three offensive plays. Yes, the Dolphins also went three-and-out on their first possession, but after the Pats punted, the Dolphins got to work and drove down the field for the opening field goal.

The Pats got absolutely whooped in the time of possession category in the first quarter, and it resulted in the defense being on the field far too often.

Patriots playoff schedule is set

This was some of the worst first quarter play we’ve seen out of the Patriots since the rocky start to the 2014 season. In that first month, the Patriots’ offense had a hard time getting going early in games against the Dolphins, Oakland Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs.

With Julian Edelman back in the fold, this frustration should subside. Let’s hope.

Next: 3. Offensive line struggles