The unit had a big game against the Commanders with TreVeyon Henderson's 100-yard touchdown return, and veteran running back Antonio Gibson had a return for 62 yards. The blocking on both kickoffs was superb. Springer deserves a lot of credit for his unit staying disciplined and making big plays.

It only got worse from there. The Commanders struggled to stop the run, had trouble catching the ball, turning the ball over and penalties. Washington was bad in all three phases. The 13 penalties for 98 yards had head coach Dan Quinn angry after the game.

While the preseason doesn't foretell much, Friday's game produced several positives for the Patriots, as well as a few negatives.