Jerod Mayo leads Patriots to stunning season-opening win over Bengals

The New England Patriots began a new chapter under rookie head coach Jerod Mayo with a surprising victory against the Cincinnati Bengals in their season opener. This marked the first game for the franchise without Bill Belichick at the helm in 24 years, following a challenging previous season where they finished last in the AFC East with a 4-13 record. The Patriots were significant underdogs, entering the game as 8.5-point favorites against the Bengals, who were expected to be one of the weaker teams in the league. Mayo, who has spent his entire professional career with the Patriots, emphasized the importance of the players' contributions to the win. Quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who previously played under Belichick, managed the game effectively, showcasing a strong performance that helped secure the victory. The defense, which had shown promise in the previous season by allowing 21 or fewer points in eight games, continued to provide opportunities for success. Players expressed their admiration for Mayo's leadership style, noting his ability to communicate effectively and inspire them to perform at their best. Defensive end Keion White and safety Kyle Dugger highlighted the special feeling of winning for their new coach, indicating a strong team morale and commitment to the new direction under Mayo. Despite the excitement of the win, Mayo remained focused on the future, acknowledging the need to prepare for the upcoming game against the Seattle Seahawks. He recognized the transient nature of success in the league, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum and continuing to build on the team's performance.