Predicting the New England Patriots' first opponent

Tonight is a big night in the NFL. This is the night that finally the schedule is revealed to everyone officially! Excitement is one of many words fans will feel as the schedule is released and quickly fans go online to purchase tickets. For the Patriots, this is one of the biggest seasons in recent year's. It's a pivotal season for Mac Jones, and they also have a difficult schedule. In recent years it's been easy predicting the first Patriots opponent. But what about this year?

Predicting the first opponent

The Patriots will open at home this season against the Philadelphia Eagles. Patriots fans can rejoice that it's no longer the Miami Dolphins (hopefully). Mac Jones will immediately be put to the test against the NFC champs from a season ago. Also we can learn a lot about the Patriots defense going up against Jalen Hurts who has been electric since entering the NFL.

A small prediction about the prediction

So if this is true how will this game go? Obviously going up against the Super Bowl runner ups is a challenge in itself. The defense will be heavily depended upon in this game. Matt Judon and company will have to get to Jalen Hurts early and often to prevent any kind of rhythm. The Eagles also have the heart and soul of the Georgia Bulldogs defense in Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter. This will be a defensive slugfest.

A strong start against the Eagles is key. In fact, a win or loss against the Eagles will set the tone for the season.

Setting the tone for the season

It's always good to start the season off on the right foot. Now it's even more important. This is a make or break season for Mac Jones. Jones needs to shine like he did his rookie year. A strong performance against (supposedly) Philadelphia could set the tone for his season personally. The offense needs to succeed this year after the disaster it had last season.

As for the defense, there isn't much to worry about compared to the offense. Obviously all eyes will be on Christian Gonzalez as he begins his rookie season. The defense on paper looks to be one of the best defenses in the league and now they need to live up to these expectations. A strong win against Philadelphia could lead to success for New England, making fans forget about the 2022 dismal season.