The New England Patriots' offensive line was a talking point for all the wrong reasons in the offseason. They didn't get off to a great start in Week 1 either, but they have been trending up and showing steady signs of improvement since then.
Notably, facing the Las Vegas Raiders' top pass rush was no small ask. They entered the game tied for the league's fourth-most sacks (10) and held opponents to 202.8 passing yards, the eighth-fewest.
That's why watching Will Campbell and company shut down Maxx Crosby and the Raiders' pass-rushing unit in this one was such a breath of fresh air. Maybe that'll be just enough to silence the critics once and for all.
The Patriots' offensive line put up a blocking clinic against the Raiders
Keeping Maxx Crosby away from the quarterback is way easier said than done. He finished the game with three hurries, but didn't get a single quarterback hit or sack, with Drake Maye standing tall in the pocket and making the most of the time and space his guys gave him.
Overall, the Patriots' offensive line gave up 12 pressures, including 11 hurries and one quarterback hit. Not too shabby for a short-armed left tackle who was supposed to move inside, huh? And what about that Morgan Moses? He was washed and old, or so they said.
This was the kind of vindicating performance the offense needed. The Raiders were coming off four great games, and they nearly took down the undefeated Kansas City Chiefs just seven days ago.
Putting up 45 points is always a positive, especially when you're down two key guys like A.J. Brown and Mack Hollins and the running game hadn't necessarily taken off this season. Clearly, Maye has gotten his groove and his confidence back.
This Patriots season might be looking eerily similar to last season's. Let's not forget that beating the Bills early in the campaign propelled a 10-game winning streak that ultimately led to a Super Bowl run. Who's to say that won't happen again after a slow start in 2026?
It's still early, but this team is showing signs of life, and the offensive line looks significantly better. Once this team gets healthier, it should have everything it needs to have one of the most explosive passing games in football.
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