It took seven days for things to get competitive, but on Wednesday, the competition between the New England Patriots offense and defense was fierce.
That isn’t something we saw much of last year around this time. But then again, that Patriots team didn’t have Bill O’Brien as the offensive coordinator.
Things have obviously changed with the new play-caller taking the reins. The offense looks more decisive, disciplined and focused than it has been in quite some time. A greatly improved offensive unit facing off against a likely elite defensive unit gives actual meaning to the idea of iron sharpening iron.
Some of the absences for the Patriots included Michael Onwenu, Cole Strange, Cody Davis, Ty Montgomery, Terez Hall and Calvin Anderson.
Here are five takeaways from Day 7 of Patriots training camp practice: