FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- A few thoughts on the New England Patriots' 16-9 victory against the Oakland Raiders:
What it means: When it comes to style points, the Patriots don't get many for this one. It was ugly and produces more questions than answers about the team. But the end result is this: The Patriots are 2-1.
Offense sputters in a big way: Quarterback Tom Brady figures to be grumpy again after this one, as the offense continues to struggle. The problems are across the board, starting with poor protection from the offensive line, extending to questionable play-calling (three throws to open the game against the NFL's worst run defense), time management issues in the red zone at the end of the second quarter, and limited pass-catching options outside of Julian Edelman. We could go on, but the bottom line is that the offense is not in a good place right now. What are the solutions? That is the hot-button question.
Gronkowski not yet at full participation: Tight end Rob Gronkowski is still working his way to top form, as evidenced by his limited playing time. It took him five games last year upon returning from his forearm injury to be playing every snap, and this being his third game this year, it's no surprise he was on for 42 of a possible 73 snaps (including penalties but not kneel-downs).
Game ball: Julian Edelman. On a day in which the offense struggled, he was one of the few players who produced. It was reminiscent of how Wes Welker often delivered in situations like these. This was Edelman's fourth career game with 10 or more receptions.
Where's Dobson? Wide receiver Aaron Dobson, a 2013 second-round draft pick who is the team's best deep threat, was a healthy scratch in favor of Brandon LaFell, Kenbrell Thompkins and Danny Amendola. Dobson played in his first regular-season game last week in Minnesota (Thompkins was scratched) as the Patriots are playing some musical chairs at receiver, trying to find the right combinations. That Dobson wasn't part of the mix Sunday is a surprise.
Injuries to monitor. Starting defensive tackle Sealver Siliga left the game in the first quarter with a foot injury and did not return. Second-year player Chris Jones took his spot next to Vince Wilfork. This could lead the Patriots to consider a waiver claim on rookie defensive lineman Bruce Gaston, who was previously with the club but was waived by Miami on Saturday.
Stat of note: The Patriots are now 12-1 in home openers at Gillette Stadium, which opened in 2002.
What's next: The Patriots visit the Kansas City Chiefs on "Monday Night Football." It is their first trip to Arrowhead Stadium since the 2005 season. The Chiefs visit the Miami Dolphins during Sunday's late afternoon slate.
