New England showcases depth, energy, and emerging talent in impressive road win at U.S. Bank Stadium
Minneapolis/St Paul, MN– The New England Patriots delivered their second consecutive preseason victory with a commanding 20-12 win over the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on Saturday afternoon. In their first daytime preseason game since 1997, the Patriots demonstrated the high-energy, competitive identity that head coach Mike Vrabel is building in New England.
Led by game captains WR Kayshon Boutte, CB Marcus Jones, LB Harold Landry III, QB Drake Maye, and S Brenden Schooler, the Patriots capped off a productive week in Minnesota that included two joint practices with the Vikings.
Dynasty Building: Patriots Show Championship Potential
Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN — The New England Patriots for two consecutive weeks have had a kickoff returned to the house for a touchdown, outperforming both the Washington Commanders and the Minnesota Vikings in spectacular fashion. Drake Maye has shown glimpses of Tom Brady’s poise in the pocket, not getting rattled by non-stop blitzes and turning failed attempts into big points for the Patriots.
It may only be week 2 of the preseason, but the Buffalo Bills and the rest of the AFC East may be in for a world of hurt this season. If Maye can continue his impressive start at quarterback, the division might just be fearing the start of another Patriots dynasty.
Special teams and the wide receiver corps have shown huge improvement under head coach Mike Vrabel and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. The defensive side of the ball continues to be a giant nightmare for opposing offenses.
Game-Defining Moments and Key Performances
Dugger’s Clutch Interception Seals Victory
The defining moment came as time expired, when safety Kyle Dugger intercepted Vikings quarterback Max Brosmer in the end zone to preserve New England’s eight-point victory. The dramatic finish punctuated a defensive effort that saw the Patriots force two turnovers while limiting Minnesota’s offensive production throughout the contest.
Henderson Opens Scoring with Authority
Second-round draft pick TreVeyon Henderson announced his arrival with a decisive 8-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, capping a methodical 9-play, 52-yard drive. Henderson’s patience and burst were on full display as he squeezed through a small crease on an outside zone play and accelerated into the end zone. Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores told the broadcast that his coaching staff was “blown away” by Henderson’s performance.
Quarterback Development and Rotation
Maye Shows Growth Despite Early Struggles
Quarterback Drake Maye started the game and played the first two offensive series for the second straight week, completing 4-of-7 passes for 46 yards. After a jittery start that included a high throw to DeMario Douglas resulting in a turnover-worthy play, Maye settled down on his second drive. His cleanest play came on a third-down connection with Mack Hollins for 20 yards, where he showed excellent pocket presence and patience against zone coverage.
Dobbs Provides Veteran Leadership
Joshua Dobbs entered after Maye’s two series and played through the first half, finishing 11-of-16 for 106 yards and one touchdown. He culminated a masterful 13-play, 93-yard drive with his first passing touchdown as a Patriot—a 12-yard scoring strike to rookie receiver Efton Chism III. However, Dobbs struggled with ball placement at times, missing throws to Javon Baker and leading Kyle Williams into a dangerous hit.
Wooldridge Gains Valuable Experience
Rookie quarterback Ben Wooldridge entered in the third quarter and played through the game’s conclusion, completing 7-of-13 passes for 55 yards. While his numbers were modest, the experience gained in game situations will prove invaluable for his development.
Breakout Star: Efton Chism III’s Explosive Performance
Player of the Game Performance
Undrafted rookie receiver Efton Chism III emerged as the game’s standout performer, leading the team in receiving for the second consecutive week with 6 catches for 71 yards and a touchdown. His 37 yards after catch demonstrated exceptional play strength and contact balance.
Chism’s touchdown drive was nothing short of spectacular—four catches for 63 yards on a single series, including a 33-yard explosive play and three third-down conversions. On his 12-yard touchdown catch, he broke five tackles after running a “mesh” concept crossing route, the same play design he scored on in the preseason opener.
The undrafted rookie’s rapid improvement in practice is translating to game performance, with his roster push becoming increasingly legitimate despite primarily facing backup defenders.
Defensive Standouts and Scheme Developments
Jennings Dominates Pass Rush
Linebacker Anfernee Jennings recorded a career-high three sacks and four total pressures, surpassing his previous regular-season best of two set at Chicago on November 10, 2024. However, his extended playing time into the fourth quarter raises questions about his scheme fit in Vrabel’s aggressive upfield defensive system, which prioritizes first-step explosiveness and bend over traditional edge-setting.
Austin’s Versatility Shines
Cornerback Alex Austin continued his strong preseason with a crucial interception of Sam Howell, giving New England prime field position. Austin allowed just one catch on four targets and showed excellent slot coverage ability, addressing the Patriots’ need for a bigger body type in that role.
Defensive Depth Emerges
- Truman Jones logged three total pressures and showed excellent contain discipline
- K’Lavon Chaisson recorded a pressure and helped force Austin’s interception
- Isaiah Iton made a great run stuff before suffering an injury that could impact his roster chances
Offensive Line Competition Intensifies
According to head coach Mike Vrabel, the Patriots are still “searching” for their starting five along the offensive line. The left guard position remains an open competition, with Ben Brown getting the start over rookie Jared Wilson, who is dealing with a physical issue.
Current Depth Chart:
- Starting Unit:Â LT Campbell, LG Brown, C Bradbury, RG Onwenu, RT Bryant
- Second String:Â LT Bryant, LG Wilson, C Brown, RG Strange, RT Lowe
- Third String:Â LT Lowe, LG Wilson/Strange, C Strange/Wilson, RG Sow, RT Jacobs
Rookie left tackle Will Campbell showed promise with solid zone blocks on Henderson’s touchdown and clean pass protection. Marcus Bryant appears to have the inside track as the top backup/swing tackle after starting at right tackle and later moving to left tackle with the second unit.
Special Teams Analysis
Kicking Competition Continues
The battle for the kicking job remains competitive:
- Andy Borregales:Â 1-of-2 on field goals (made 51-yarder, missed 57-yarder), 2-of-2 on extra points
- Parker Romo:Â 1-of-1 on field goals (28-yarder), had one kickoff land short of the landing zone
Return Game Excellence
Marcus Jones reminded everyone of his return abilities with a 37-yard punt return on a well-blocked cutback scheme. However, the Patriots surrendered an 81-yard kickoff return, creating a mixed special teams performance.
Rookie Jeremiah Webb continued his impressive return work with a 59-yard kickoff return, marking the Patriots’ third 50+ yard return of the preseason.
Roster Battles and Injury Updates
Key Debuts and Returns
Three newly acquired Patriots made their New England debuts: CB Carlton Davis III and LB Harold Landry III both earned starting positions, while LB K’Lavon Chaisson debuted on special teams. Veterans Vederian Lowe, Sidy Sow, and Caedan Wallace returned after missing the preseason opener.
Injury Concerns
Third-round pick Kyle Williams left the game after taking a high hit that appeared to be helmet-to-helmet contact but went uncalled. Williams had three catches for 24 yards before the injury and has been creating consistent separation throughout training camp.
Additional Notable Performances
Offensive Highlights
- Mack Hollins:Â Three catches for 38 yards, continues as featured “X” receiver
- Kyle Williams:Â First NFL reception (13 yards) before injury
- Jack Westover:Â Second straight start at fullback, adding versatility to offensive packages
Special Teams Excellence
Punter Bryce Baringer connected on a 65-yard punt in the third quarter, adding to his impressive career total of 23 punts of 60+ yards, including 11 in 2024.
Looking Ahead: Building Vrabel’s Culture
This victory represents more than just a preseason win—it demonstrates Vrabel’s success in establishing a new winning culture in New England. The team’s high-energy, competitive approach mirrors their head coach’s DNA, creating optimism for the regular season.
The Patriots’ ability to maintain intensity during a rare afternoon kickoff after a long road trip and joint practices shows the mental toughness Vrabel is instilling. Combined with their 60.0% third-down efficiency and 34:10 time of possession advantage, the Patriots are showing signs of the identity they want to carry into the regular season.
As roster cuts approach next Tuesday, several position battles remain unresolved, particularly at left guard and in the kicking game. However, the emergence of players like Chism III and the continued development of rookies like Henderson provide encouraging signs for New England’s future.
Related Patriots Articles:
- How To Watch The Patriots vs Vikings Preseason Week 2
- Patriots Continue to Dominate Red Zone in Minnesota
- Patriots Defense Dominates Vikings
- Patriots Dominate Commanders in Week 1 Preseason
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