The New England Patriots beat the absolute brakes off the Washington Commanders, 48-18, in Friday’s preseason opener at Gillette Stadium.

Yes, it was as dominant a showing as the score would indicate. No, the score ultimately doesn’t matter, but that doesn’t mean there wasn’t valuable information to be gained from witnessing the thrashing, particularly as it pertains to a couple of dudes on the home sideline.

It’s a new era in New England, but everyone’s favorite series is making a return, so let’s talk about some studs and duds, shall we?

STUDS

LB Truman Jones (No. 54)

Jones has completely transformed himself over the last two years, developing from a lower-level collegiate defensive lineman to a versatile chess piece that can play both on- and off-ball linebacker — sort of like th

See Full Page