**1\. DEFENSE LEADS TO OFFENSE**
Smith targeted Bowers on the first play of the game for a 23-yard pass, and rookie running back Ashton Jeanty helped Las Vegas accumulate 13 more yards before a 26-yard pass to receiver Tre Tucker helped the Raiders score first. The play converted a third-and-11, and the touchdown capped off a nine-play drive that took just under three minutes.
Patriots running back Antonio Gibson gave the Patriots great field position to work with after a 41-yard kickoff, but the offense couldn't take advantage after going three-and-out.
Later in the quarter, the Patriots managed to steal the ball back when newly acquired cornerback Carlton Davis III tipped a pass from Smith intended for Bowers into the hands of New England safety Jaylinn Hawkins. From there, a 27-yard catch by Hunter Henry and another 24-yard grab from Kayshon Boutte got New England to the red zone. Boutte was injured on the play, but an 11-yard grab from Austin Hooper got the Patriots where they needed to be for a 3rd\-and-goal touchdown by DeMario Douglas.
After the 14-play drive, Andy Borregales' kick was good, and the Patriots evened things up 7-7 with a minute left in the first.