Today we preview NFL preseason Week 1 with a matchup between the Washington Football Team and New England Patriots. The Washington Football Team will kick off their preseason with a road trip to New England to take on the Patriots on Thursday night. Washington finished the 2020 season with a 7-9 record, but it was good enough to win the NFC East. The Patriots finished the season with a 7-9 record and missed the playoffs.

NFL Preseason Week 1

Washington Football Team Analysis

The Football Team surprised a lot of people by making the playoffs in Ron Rivera’s first season as head coach, despite all the injuries they had to deal with. The team moved on from quarterback Dwayne Haskins, who they had hoped would be their franchise quarterback and released veteran Alex Smith, who retired during the offseason.

They brought in Ryan Fitzpatrick to be their starter, but they will need more weapons if they want to improve what was one of the worst offenses in the league.

Defensively, Washington had one of the best units in the league and they did a great job down the stretch. Chase Young, who led the team with 7.5 sacks as a rookie, is expected to be the key to their success.

New England Patriots Analysis

The Patriots struggled offensively in their first year without Tom Brady, who led Tampa Bay to a Super Bowl title. Cam Newton, who was expected to replace Brady, struggled as the starter and also dealt with injuries. With him getting more comfortable in the system, he will be their opening day starter, but don’t be surprised to see rookie Mac Jones under center if Newton struggles.

Preseason Betting Picks

Defensively, the Patriots struggled, but they were without a few key players that opted out of the season because of COVID-19.

With players like Dont’a Hightower coming back this season, their defense should be better than it was last season, so expect the Patriots to be back in playoff contention this season. Check out our BetUS review to learn more.

Odds and Prediction

Washington is favored to win this game by two points. The over/under on total points scored is 35.
It’s a preseason game, so most of the starters on both sides won’t see any action. Washington’s offense was really bad last season and with a lot of new faces on that end, the Patriots will have the edge, so go with New England to win at home. The Patriots will easily cover the 2 point spread.