New England Patriots upset Arizona Cardinals: Likes and dislikes from Week 1

LIKE: New pass catchers

Exactly one-third of Garoppolo’s completions went to offseason additions. Chris Hogan (three catches, 60 yards), Malcolm Mitchell (two catches, 33 yards) and Martellus Bennett (three catches, 14 yards) made valuable contributions in the Patriots’ passing game last night. The Patriots wouldn’t have won the game without the strong play of this trio of newcomers.

Hogan’s first catch as a Patriot was better than he could have dreamed of, a 37-yard dart that got the scoring started. Hogan possesses surprising speed to compliment his 6-foot-1 frame and tight route running.

Mitchell dropped the first pass that went his way, but he made up for the blunder by securing a much-needed 28-yard grab. This kid is promising.

Last but not least, Bennett was a reliable target for Garoppolo in the short-yardage passing game, picking up a big first down in the first half.

Meanwhile, incumbent pass catchers Julian Edelman, Danny Amendola and James White were excellent as well, combining for 154 yards between the three of them. Jimmy’s got help in all directions.

Next: LIKE: Pressure on Palmer