Pats roll over Bucs 31-14

After two preseason games Tom Brady and the New England Patriots look like they are playing at mid-season form. On Thursday in front of a stunned crowd at Raymond James Stadium, the Pats dismantled the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 31-14. Let’s hope that the mid-season form lasts into and throughout the regular season.

Tom Brady went 11 for 19 for 118 yards and threw for pair touchdowns. One touchdown pass was to TE Aaron Hernandez, and the other was an 8-yard strike to WR Chad Ochocinco.

The Pats’ defense harassed Bucs quarterback Josh Freeman the whole first half, limiting his production to 5 for 10 passing and a miniscule 33 yards.

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One notable bright spot for New England was the play on top draft choice T Nate Solder. At times in the first half he looked like an experienced pro; his technique seems to be improving with each series that he plays.

“I think we were able to get off to a better start this week,” Bill Belichick said. “I think we played with a tremendous amount of energy.”

Next up for the Patriots - the Detroit Lions, whom they will face at Ford Field next Saturday night @ 8:00 PM EDT.

By: Ryan K. Lee
ProFootball-fans.com New England Patriots Correspondent