The Morning After…If you still have hope for 2023 Patriots, it’s time to face the music

Some leftover notes the morning after the Patriots’ 20-17 loss to the Commanders.

The New England Patriots fell to the Washington Commanders at home 20-17 on Sunday.

It was no different than the team we have seen since the start of 2022, a bland offense lacking firepower and a defense that has to work their tails off to keep the team in the game.

Commanders quarterback Sam Howell took charge and threw for 325 yards, one touchdown and one interception, defeating a depleted Patriots defense. On the other side of the ball, the Patriots offense looked out of sync, and it feels like they are starting to officially check out.

Things feel like they have turned from frustration to just outright lack of passion. At least a frustrated locker room has some belief for the season. However, the team we saw against the Commanders feels like they’re packing it in and collecting their game checks.

Let’s get into some leftover notes from the game.