What To Watch: Patriots vs. Redskins

Tuesday, August 05, 2014

Matt LaPan, GoLocal Worcester Sports Reporter

Preseason game number one is fast approaching for the New England Patriots. They will take on the Washington Redskins at Fed-Ex Field on Thursday night, following two more days of joint practices between the teams.

Through one full day of joint practices the Patriots have been impressive, according to reports. Tom Brady had no problems finding multiple receivers, namely Julian Edelman, while carving apart the Redskins secondary.

The Patriots defense also looked strong, according to reports, under the direction of defensive co-captain Vince Wilfork. Wilfork continues to be a full participant in practice and is showing almost no ill-effects from his ruptured Achilles tendon. “From the first day I stepped on the field with full pads back at Gillette, I knew I could move around and play on it," Wilfork said when speaking to the media.

There was one notable absence from the joint session, however. That absence being Patriots' tight end Rob Gronkowski. Gronkowski was reportedly held out of the session as a precaution and, according to the Boston Herald, did not make the trip to Richmond.

As the practices continue, and the first preseason game approaches there are some intriguing match ups to watch and story lines for the rest of the week:

Darrelle Revis vs. DeSean Jackson

Although many fans will want to see this matchup throughout the Thursday game, it is unlikely either player sees a lot of action. They will, however, continue to lock horns in practice. Revis is widely considered one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL and Jackson is a dynamic, speedy receiver. The fans in attendance in Richmond will be treated by seeing two of the best at their position work against each other for the next two days.

Ryan Kerrigan & Brian Orakpo vs. Patriots Offensive Tackles

Whether it is Nate Solder and Sebastian Vollmer, or Marcus Cannon, or any combination of offensive tackles for the Patriots they will have to deal with the Redskins formidable pass rush duo. Both Redskins outside linebackers have size, speed and power that generally give opposing tackles fits. This might be a limited battle, but should be very entertaining.

Jimmy Garoppolo's Debut

For the first time, Patriots fans will get to see Jimmy Garoppolo in live NFL action against an opposing team. Although Garoppolo will likely not be facing NFL starters, he will still face still competition. With talented secondary players such as Bashaud Breeland, Bacarri Rambo and others, Garoppolo will be tested. It will be interesting to see how Garoppolo reads and responds to a live defense. Will he be able to adjust? Or will Garoppolo's Training Camp struggles continue?

What will you be watching for in preseason game number one? Let the Go Local Sports team know. Find Matt LaPan on Twitter @Matt_LaPan and let him know what you are looking for. Stay with Go Local all season for news, notes and analysis of your New England Patriots.