The New England Patriots performed much better in Week 6 than they did in their previous two blowout losses to the New Orleans Saints and Dallas Cowboys.
But even with an improved performance, the Patriots ultimately fell in defeat to the Las Vegas Raiders 21-17, thanks to some last-minute self-inflicted wounds.
The Patriots had a chance to come back late in the fourth quarter and fell short as Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby sacked Mac Jones in the end zone for a safety to ultimately close the game out.
Even in defeat, it was clear New England showed up to compete until the final whistle. These were the three standout stars for the team in their third consecutive loss.
First Star: Kendrick Bourne
Kendrick Bourne was the Patriots’ best receiver all game, and he was able to eat against a poor man’s coverage secondary in Las Vegas. Bourne’s reemergence in this game helped the Patriots attempt a late fourth-quarter comeback.
He was able to snag 10 catches for 89 yards in the defeat. However, one of the most encouraging signs with his performance is the fact that he was consistently open all game and only missed one of his 11 targets.
Fans have been calling for Bourne to get more playing time and a higher target share, and in this game, he played the most of any Patriots receiver. It was a welcoming change that would be great to see continue as the season progresses.
Second Star: Jabrill Peppers
Jabrill Peppers has continued his career resurgence in New England, and he had a great game for the banged-up Patriots defense.
Peppers tallied seven tackles, one of which was an explosive and clean hit on Davante Adams that jarred the ball free for a Jahlani Tavai interception.
He was stout in coverage and against the run, yet again. Through the first six weeks of the season, he is quietly becoming the Patriots’ silent MVP. He has continued to make the sort of plays that have kept the Patriots in some games.
Third Star: Ezekiel Elliott
Ezekiel Elliott is starting to eat, and to be honest, he’s stating to look like the “Zeke” of old.
The Patriots have begun to let him work into some of Rhamondre Stevenson’s running share. With Stevenson struggling out of the backfield as a pass-catcher, more work might be on the horizon for the former two-time NFL leading rusher.
Elliott had seven carries for 34 yards and a team-high 4.9 yards per carry average. He also had an explosive touchdown run that would have been the longest of the season for the Patriots, but a penalty negated it.
It’s clear the Patriots offense has been flowing much better with Elliott in the backfield than Stevenson at this point.
