Raiders Defeat Patriots 20-13 in Season Opener at Gillette Stadium

The New England Patriots' 2025 season opened with a disappointing 20-13 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders, highlighting significant challenges despite offseason optimism and roster upgrades. Under new head coach Mike Vrabel, the team struggled in all phases, with costly penalties, turnovers, and a particularly uninspired second half where the Raiders outscored them 13-3. Quarterback Drake Maye showed flashes with 287 passing yards and a touchdown but was inconsistent, including a critical third-quarter interception that shifted momentum. Defensive standout Harold Landry impressed with 2.5 sacks and multiple quarterback pressures, but the defense overall was vulnerable to big plays. The offense, despite additions and new coaching strategies, failed to sustain drives in the second half, reflecting issues with protection and execution. While Vrabel's new era shows potential, the Patriots' performance revealed they remain a work in progress, still resembling the struggling team of the previous season.