Patriots film review: 16 takeaways from preseason win over Eagles – Boston Herald

The New England Patriots’ preseason victory over the Philadelphia Eagles was a textbook example of how a team can turn a game around, and the Boston Herald’s film review distilled that into 16 clear takeaways. While the article doesn’t list the exact score, the game’s narrative is familiar to Eagles fans: a hard‑fought contest where the Patriots’ defense stepped up in crucial moments, and the offense found rhythm after a shaky start.

First, the Patriots’ front seven forced multiple third‑down stops, a reminder that the Eagles’ run game has struggled against aggressive defensive fronts. The review highlights how New England’s linebackers read the play and executed timely tackles, a pattern that will test the Eagles’ rushing attack in the next regular‑season meeting.

Second, the Patriots’ pass rush was relentless, generating pressure on the Eagles’ quarterback on 70% of plays. The film analysis points to the combination of stunts and edge rushes that created a “pressure map” the Eagles will need to adapt to. Eagles’ offensive line coach will likely revisit blocking schemes to counter this approach.

Third, New England’s offensive line showed improved protection, giving their quarterback time to find his receivers. The review notes that the Patriots’ interior line created a “gap” that the Eagles’ defensive front could exploit, but the Patriots’ blocking was disciplined and consistent.

Fourth, the Patriots’ special teams made a difference, returning kicks for significant yardage and forcing a missed field goal by the Eagles. This is a reminder that special teams can swing momentum in a game that often feels like a “tug‑of‑war” between two evenly matched squads.

Beyond these four points, the Boston Herald’s takeaways cover everything from the Patriots’ ball‑control strategy to their use of play‑action passes, all of which provide a blueprint for what the Eagles need to counter. For Philadelphia fans, the film review is a useful guide: it shows where the Patriots excelled and where the Eagles can adjust in preparation for the next regular‑season clash. The lesson is clear—if the Eagles want to win against New England, they must tighten their run defense, protect the quarterback, and stay disciplined on special teams.