Green Bay Packers 2018 opponent preview: New England Patriots
Any time Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady meet, it’s a must-see game.
The two future Hall-of-Fame quarterbacks have only played each other once, four years ago at Lambeau Field. That’s hard to believe.
Brady will be 41 years old when the new season gets underway, but he’s so far showed no signs of slowing down.
Let’s take a closer look at the 2018 New England Patriots.
Last season
It was a typical season for the Patriots. They eased to a 13-3 record, winning the AFC East for the ninth consecutive season, and the 14th time in the past 15 years. New England beat Tennessee and Jacksonville to reach Super Bowl LII. But the Patriots wouldn’t retain their championship, losing 41-33 to the Philadelphia Eagles.
When is the game?
The Green Bay Packers visit Gillette Stadium in Week 9. The game will be played on Sunday, Nov. 4 at 7:20 p.m. CT. It will be broadcast on Sunday Night Football.
Offseason additions
The Patriots didn’t make many blockbuster moves in free agency. They did add talent, though, signing defensive end Adrian Clayborn, running back Jeremy Hill and wide receiver Jordan Matthews to relatively cheap deals.
New England did lose cornerback Malcolm Butler, running back Dion Lewis and tackle Nate Solder.
In response, the Patriots used their two first-round picks to select tackle Isaiah Wynn and running back Sony Michel. In the second round, they picked cornerback Duke Dawson.
Last meeting with Packers
November 30, 2014: Packers won 26-21 at Lambeau Field
Player to watch
Tom Brady: As long as Brady is still playing, he’ll always be the player to watch for the Patriots.
What’s even more fascinating is how he continues to play at such a high level into his 40s. At some point he has to slow down, right?
A five-time Super Bowl champion, a four-time Super Bowl MVP, a three-time league MVP, a 13-time Pro Bowler and arguably the greatest quarterback to ever play in the NFL. Not bad for a sixth-round pick. But one thing he’s never done? Beat Aaron Rodgers in a game they have both started.
They’ve only met once, four years ago at Lambeau Field. Rodgers led the Packers to victory in an excellent contest.
This could be the last time these two all-time greats play each other. In the regular season, at least. Here’s hoping Brady plays at a high level this season to create another classic.
Next: Packers 53-man roster predictions following 2018 NFL Draft
And who knows, maybe we’ll see the New England Patriots and Green Bay Packers collide in the Super Bowl.