New England was an 8.5-point underdog against Cincinnati, but got off to a start to the season that few outside the locker room expected.

Commentary: New England won Jerod Mayo’s coaching debut, proving this is indeed a new day for the franchise.

Rhamondre Stevenson rushes for 120 yards and a touchdown to lift New England to a 16-10 win over Cincinnati.

New head coach Jerod Mayo takes over for six-time Super Bowl winner Bill Belichick and is leading a rebuild in New England.

New England’s Sidy Sow won’t play at Cincinnati, while Ja’Maar Chase and Tee Higgins could be out for the Bengals

The Patriots enter as an underdog against Joe Burrow and (maybe) Ja’Marr Chase, but Cincinnati has also struggled in recent season openers.

Mayo doesn’t have the credibility that former coach Bill Belichick earned on his way to six Super Bowls.

Analysis: Coach Jerod Mayo and the front office believe starting the season from the sideline is best for Maye’s future, and history supports them.

Brissett gets the nod over rookie first-round draft pick Drake Maye for the season opener at Cincinnati.