Cam Newton’s opening drive in the New England Patriots’ preseason opener was underwhelming, to say the least.
Damien Harris began the drive with a two-yard run up the middle that was quickly stuffed. Newton then threw an incompletion while targeting Jonnu Smith, followed by a near strip sack on third down that was ruled an incompletion. It was reminiscent of the Patriots’ pace last year and Newton wasn’t happy with those results.
Following the 22-13 victory over the Washington Football Team, James White discussed that opening drive and relayed the message Newton had for the team.
“Just get it going, you know what I mean. We pretty much said we’re better than a three and out in the first drive,” White said. “I think we all know that, and I said to everybody attack that second drive with a little bit more confidence, and a little more sense of urgency, so definitely want to start with that on the first drive. Definitely want to have a fast start, especially when you’re playing against good football teams.”
Newton’s second drive, which was his last, was much stronger and it resulted in a 35-yard field goal by rookie kicker Quinn Nordin. The 32-year-old finished the game off throwing 4 of 7 for 49 yards. Mac Jones followed Newton up with five series where he threw 13 of 19 for 87 yards — leading to two field goals.
Washington has a tough defense and Newton only had two series in the game, so it’s hard to compare the performance of both quarterbacks in this battle for the starting role. But, it’s clear the Patriots want to get Jones as much exposure as he can get during the preseason.
