Houston Texans-New England Patriots: 20-9
Welcome to the NFL, CJ Stroud. For his first steps in preparation, the number two of the last Draft had the misfortune to come across a still stifling Patriots defense. As a result, his first offensive series ended with an interception. A few actions earlier, he had taken his first sack.
Stroud did get a second offense, but he didn’t do better than a punt. Final record: 2/4, 13 yards, one interception. Stroud also gained 6 yards on 2 carries.
Enough to allow Davis Mills (9/12, 99 yards, 1 TD) to keep a small hope of continuing to fight for the starting position. Because it was he who found the rookie Tank Dell (5 rec, 65 yards, 1 TD) for his team’s first touchdown.
If Stroud suffered, it was because the New England defense put him under pressure on 60% of his pass attempts. Debutant Keion White was particularly prominent with 3 tackles, 2 pressures on the pitcher and a quarterback hit. He even helped his team recover a ball on a missed pass.
In attack, Mac Jones was rested, leaving Bailey Zappe (12/14, 79 yards) the opportunity to lead the attack for the majority of the match.
Minnesota Vikings–Seattle Seahawks: 13-24
All the main holders were at rest during this match. Drew Lock (17/24, 191 yards, 2 TDs, 1 int) therefore had free rein to accumulate minutes and attempts. Unlucky on his interception, with a deflected ball on the line, the former second-round choice mostly showed interesting things. He was helped by debutants Jaxon Smith-Njigba (3 rec, 25 yards) and Jake Bobo (3 rec, 55 yards, 1 TD).
Apart from Lock, this match was above all an opportunity for the Seattle rookies to put themselves forward: Zach Charbonnet (4 races, 14 yards) and Mike Morris (2 pressures on the quarterback) in particular.
The Vikings didn’t take out Kirk Cousins. It is towards the ground that the eyes are turned. 11 balls for Ty Chandler, who collected 41 yards. He also caught 4 passes for 29 yards. The goal for him was to carve out a place in the rotation behind Alexander Mattison, who will be the starter after the departure of Dalvin Cook.
