Raiders vs Patriots Week 1 Recap: Key Highlights

Sep 08, 2025 — Week 1

The Raiders vs Patriots Week 1 highlights tell the story of a poised road win. Las Vegas edged New England 20–13 by winning situational downs, protecting the ball, and finishing drives after halftime. It wasn’t flashy, but it was effective, and it sets a confident early tone for the Raiders’ 2025 campaign.

First-Half Recap: Field Position and Patience

Both teams opened conservatively. Las Vegas leaned on short throws and smart runs to avoid negative plays. New England countered with quick-game passes and a steady punt game that nudged field position their way. A red-zone stand on one end and a composed two-minute sequence on the other left the score tight at the break. The opening half felt like chess: cautious, physical, and error-averse.

Second-Half Surge: Raiders Create Separation

Out of halftime, the Raiders strung together their most balanced drive of the night. They mixed tempo, stayed ahead of the chains, and finished with points to grab the lead. From there, the offense protected that margin with clean protection on third down and timely throws to the sticks. The run game didn’t explode, but it kept the playbook open and the clock moving.

Defense Delivers: Pressure, Tackling, Takeaway

The turning point arrived when the defense generated pressure that led to a short field. Las Vegas capitalized, and momentum swung. Down the stretch, the unit tightened its zones and tackled in space, limiting yards after the catch. A late-series stop outside field-goal range preserved a two-score cushion and forced the Patriots into hurry-up mode.

Special Teams and Situational Wins

Hidden yards mattered. Directional punts, secure returns, and clean operation on kicks protected field position. On offense, converting a key third-and-long in the fourth quarter bled the clock and shifted leverage. On defense, disciplined edges contained scrambles and screens. Those small wins added up to the final margin.

Key Moments to Rewatch

• Post-halftime scoring drive that flipped control
• Short-field series immediately converted into points
• Clutch third-and-long conversion late in the fourth
• Final defensive stand that sealed the 20–13 result

What It Means Going Forward

For Las Vegas, a composed road win in Week 1 is a strong foundation. The offense showed structure; the defense closed. For New England, the effort was physical and organized, but explosive plays and late execution remain growth areas. Expect adjustments on both sides as September unfolds.

Watch the full Raiders vs Patriots Week 1 highlights to relive every turning point from the 20–13 opener.