Patriots 20, Raiders 13: Stevenson, defense power Vrabel to debut win

FOXBOROUGH, MA - The Mike Vrabel era opened with a win. Backed by Rhamondre Stevenson and a defense that swarmed Geno Smith into four interceptions, the New England Patriots defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 20-13 in Week 1.

The Patriots leaned early on field goals from Andres Borregales, who connected from 38 and 46 yards. Stevenson took over in the second half, breaking loose for touchdown runs of 15 and 26 yards to seal the game. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye played mistake-free football, completing 11 of 18 passes for 111 yards, spreading the ball to Hunter Henry and Stefon Diggs.

For the Raiders, Ashton Jeanty carried 24 times for 117 yards, showing toughness against a stout Patriots front. Brock Bowers provided the Raiders' lone touchdown on a 16-yard strike from Smith, while Daniel Carlson added two field goals.

The difference came in turnovers. Christian Gonzalez, Marlon Jones, Harold Landry III, and Carlton Davis III each intercepted Smith, snuffing out Raider drives and setting up short fields for the Patriots' offense.

Player Reactions

"Once we felt their fronts wearing down, I was in the zone," Stevenson said. "The guys up front kept opening lanes. On that last one, I honestly felt like I could run it with my eyes closed."

Smith took responsibility for the Raiders' miscues: "You can't spot a Vrabel defense four takeaways and expect to win. That's on me. We'll clean it up."

Gonzalez praised the defensive effort: "Coach kept it simple-eyes, leverage, finish. When the rush hunts like that, the ball is going to come out, and we made the plays."

Coaches Speak

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel said, "Complimentary football. Kicking game points early, defense taking the ball, offense finishing. Proud of our situational football late."

Raiders head coach Max Farias was blunt: "Loved our effort, hated our ball security. We created enough on the ground and with Brock to win, but four picks changed everything."

What's Next

The Raiders return home to Allegiant Stadium for a divisional showdown with the Los Angeles Chargers. Meanwhile, the Patriots will travel to Miami to face the Dolphins in a tough Week 2 road test.