The New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles are both expecting to make deep runs in the 2014 season. Both teams have improved their offensive weapons while figuring out how to fill defensive holes. The Patriots and Eagles are still trying to figure out the right group of players to have on the field come the start of the season and this preseason game will likely dictate the first round of roster cuts made for both teams.
The Patriots put Ryan Mallett on display in the team's first game. Tom Brady did not step on the field as the backup quarterback played a heavy portion of the game. If it were up to Patriots fans, this will be the only time Mallett sees the field. The increased exposure is good for Mallett's future. The quarterback will be approaching free agency next summer and New England will likely attempt to trade him or let him hit the open market so the preseason is the only chance teams get to see his skills.
Jimmy Garoppolo will likely be the future of the franchise as the Patriots begin to build their backup plan to Brady. He was drafted in the second round this season, a move the Patriots almost never make. He will get a long look in these next few games. Brady is expected to see the field for a brief amount of time as he continues to try and build chemistry with his wide receivers.
The Eagles are hoping the Patriots' secondary challenges their new group of offensive players. With DeSean Jackson out, Jeremy Maclin and Jordan Matthews become the stars. Riley Cooper continues to sit out with an injury. Maclin is still recovering from a torn ACL that occurred last preseason, but reports have been positive so far. He has spent the last week going up against cornerback Darrelle Revis, something he says is only helping his recovery.
After a shaky debut, Nick Foles is expected to look improved in the second game. The quarterback spotlight will fall on the backups as Mark Sanchez and Matt Barkley begin battling for the No. 2 role on the roster. Both quarterbacks have seen their ups and downs in training camp and Chip Kelly needs that to change.
