New England Patriots at Las Vegas Raiders 8/26/22 - NFL Preseason Picks & Predictions

The New England Patriots visit Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada on Friday to play the Las Vegas Raiders in the final game of the NFL preseason for both teams. New England is 1-1 in the preseason after opening with a 23-21 loss to the New York Giants followed by a 20-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers. New England rookie Bailly Zappe passed for 173 yards and one interception in the victory over Carolina.

Starting quarterback Mac Jones looked solid under center for New England, including completing a 45-yard pass in a drive that eventually led to a touchdown. Brian Hoyer played one series under center for New England, but Zappe took over in the second quarter and played the rest of the game. Lil’Jordan Humphey caught five passes for 71 yards. New England's defense held Carolina to only 192 yards of total offense and forced four turnovers.

Las Vegas improved to 3-0 in the preseason following its 15-13 victory over the Miami Dolphins. The Raiders opened the preseason with a 27-11 win over Jacksonville in the Hall of Fame Game, followed by a 26-20 victory over Minnesota prior to defeating the Dolphins. Derek Carr did not play for the Raiders, while Jarrett Stidham passed for 80 against the Dolphins. Brittan Brown rushed for 70 yards. 

The Las Vegas defense held Miami to 37 yards rushing but gave up too much through the air, allowing 303 yards passing to the Dolphins while forcing one Miami turnover. Las Vegas will use more of its starters on defense against New England on Friday as the Raiders prepare for a tough battle in the AFC West, which is considered the toughest division in the NFL top to bottom.