The New England Patriots will meet the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their preseason matchup at 7:30 p.m. ET. Both teams will look to bounce back after loses in their last games.
The Patriots lost 27-17 against the Philadelphia Eagles. The Buccaneers were destroyed 30-7 by the Tennessee Titans.
The Patriots at least saw potential in their defensive line as a hit from Jermaine Cunningham knocked out the Eagles' star quarterback Michael Vick. Thankfully for Philadelphia he was only knocked out of the game and the preseason as x-rays came out negative.
The Patriots were on the field without their leader, Tom Brady. Ryan Mallett showed signs of great instincts at times as he kept the Patriots close throughout the night. He finished 10/20 with 105 yards and a touchdown.
Unfortunately, their defense could not find an answer for rookie Nick Foles, who finished the night 18/28 with 217 passing yards, 2 touchdowns and an interception.
Defense was a big of a problem for the Bucs against the Titans too. They allowed two touchdowns to Chris Johnson on the ground and gave up a score by air as quarterback Rusty Smith and wide receiver Cameron Graham connected for a touchdown.
Their offense failed them completely as Josh Freeman led the team in passing with 21 yards and Michael Smith led the team with 31 rushing yards. TIght end Danny Noble had the most yards caught with 11.
