Patriots: 1 Saints flaw that New England could expose in Week 3

With Mac Jones and the New England Patriots fresh off a demolition of the Jets and a narrow loss against the Dolphins, the squad’s quest to start the season off at 2-1 could hit a major roadblock against Sean Payton and a New Orleans Saints team that is looking to get back on the right track.

While the Saints will be an adventure on offense as they ride the Jameis Winston roller coaster, a defense led by Cam Jordan could be so aggressive that it gives a coach like Bill Belichick difficulty in reeling off long drives against them.

This could be their meal ticket to success in 2021.

However, this unit doesn’t look as strong or as together as it did at the beginning of the season, and with some clever maneuvering and game-planning, the Patriots can use that lack of depth and health to their advantage.

The Patriots’ path to victory in this game is clear, and it actually involves going after that defense.

After a dominant win over the Packers and loss against the Panthers, this unit is beaten up and injured, which could give Belichick an advantage.

Mac Jones and the Patriots must attack the Saints’ defense.

In addition to safety Chauncey Gardner-Johnson returning from injury, star cornerback Marshon Lattimore and first-round pick Payton Turner were limited and likely won’t be at 100%. In addition, Marcus Davenport has already been placed on IR due to a shoulder injury, so this unit is much weaker than it was at the beginning of the season.

Jones has heard the criticism from those saying his hot start is due to both he and Josh McDaniels playing an overly conservative style of offense, and he has stated that he is willing to challenge defenses with deep passes down the field if the opportunity presents itself.

Well, here’s your chance. The pass rush won’t be nearly as difficult to counter, the secondary is playing with one arm tied behind their back, and it sounds like there is a real commitment from player and coach to be more aggressive.

This strategy would nullify Jordan as best they can and take advantage of a collection of backups and liming starters in the secondary.

The Saints have their own aggressive quarterback in Winston, so the best way for Mac and the Pats to avoid a 1-2 start is to beat them at their own game and stretch that defense to its breaking point. This would be a much bigger with for the squad than beating up on the bad Jets.

Patriots announce special halftime ceremony honoring Julian Edelman

During halftime of the New England Patriots' Week 3 game against the Saints, receiver Julian Edelman will be honored with a ceremony.