Joe Burrow

On paper, everything seemed to align for the Cincinnati Bengals to start the season with a win. Ja'Marr Chase was playing. Joe Burrow was coming off a full training camp. And Cincinnati was a heavy favorite over a franchise in the midst of a transition.

Burrow completed 21 of 29 passes for 164 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions and rushed four times for 15 yards in the Bengals' 16-10 loss to the Patriots on Sunday.

It's not what you want. The Bengals struggled in all phases, but on offense it starts with Burrow. Cincinnati never challenged the Patriots downfield as Burrow finished the afternoon with a paltry 5.7 yards per attempt. Ja'Marr Chase caught all six of his targets, but with Tee Higgins sidelined the offense lacked a second legitimate option. Andrei Iosivas caught 3-of-6 targets, Mike Gesicki dropped a pass in the end zone and Tanner Hudson fumbled as he was approaching the goal line. Higgins' return will be key for Burrow, who has a tough matchup against the Chiefs on the road in Week 2.

Down goes Joe Burrow and Co. at home

Phil Perry details one aspect of the Bengals' offensive attack with Joe Burrow that the Patriots should try to emulate with Drake Maye.