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The New England Patriots defeated the Washington Football Team, 22-13, on Thursday in the preseason opener for both teams.
Fell short in the first dress rehearsal pic.twitter.com/F2t5iEd0ns
— Washington Football Team (@WashingtonNFL) August 13, 2021
Washington quarterback Steven Montez found running back Lamar Miller in the end zone for a late touchdown to cut New England’s lead to 15-13. Wide receiver Antonio Gandy-Golden appeared to have come down with Montez’s pass on the two-point conversion. However, officials ruled Gandy-Golden didn’t complete the catch, and the Patriots stayed in front.
New England went back on offense and was content to run the clock out, but Washington coach Ron Rivera was using his timeouts. Rookie running back Rhamondre Stevenson took the ball down the right sideline for a 91-yard touchdown to seal a New England win.
Montez would play the second half, completing 17 of 24 passes for 108 yards with a touchdown and an interception. He struggled for much of the game but appeared to have settled down on Washington’s final two drives.
Washington starter Ryan Fitzpatrick went five of eight with 58 yards passing. Taylor Heinicke completed 9 of 15 passes for 86 yards and led the Football Team to its first touchdown just before halftime.
Washington kicker Dustin Hopkins missed two field goals.
Rookie running back Jaret Patterson was impressive, rushing for 40 yards on 10 attempts and leading the team with four receptions for 30 yards.
Washington is back in action next Friday when the Cincinnati Bengals come to FedEx Field.