NEW ORLEANS -- At an initial glance, and without the benefit of film review, a look at New England Patriots players who are "up" and those who are "down" in Saturday's preseason game against the Saints:
UP
Dion Lewis -- The four-year veteran is one of the stars of the night, with his 11-yard touchdown run an impressive show of determination, as he also displayed a willingness to step up and pick up the blitz.
Jimmy Garoppolo -- The second-year quarterback was 11-of-13 at the half, leading an impressive two-minute drive at the end of the second quarter as he seemed to be much more decisive in his decision-making compared to the preseason opener. He continued the momentum into the second half, finishing 28 of 33 for 269 yards, with one touchdown and one interception.
Brandon Gibson -- Veteran receiver who is vying for a No. 4 or 5 role played a lot of snaps, was productive, and also showed a knowledge of the offense in helping get others lined up at times. He limped off late in the fourth quarter and didn't return.
Chris Harper -- The undrafted receiver from California caught a 24-yard touchdown pass from Garoppolo at the end of the second quarter, and showed up in the return game as well.
James Morris -- The linebacker gets credit for hustling and never giving up on the play as he jarred the ball free from receiver Josh Morgan in the third quarter, which the Patriots recovered.
Jabaal Sheard -- The defensive end surged off the edge multiple times, at one point taking advantage of a technique error by Saints first-round pick Andrus Peat to deliver a big hit.
DOWN
Cameron Fleming -- Playing as a sixth offensive lineman, the Patriots utilized him to try to get the running game going but gained little traction. At one point, Fleming was penalized for an illegal formation, which drew the ire of Bill Belichick.
Duron Harmon -- The safety appeared to take a bad angle on Brandin Cooks' 45-yard touchdown reception.
Jonathan Freeny -- The linebacker was in coverage on Saints' first touchdown, a 10-yard pass to tight end Benjamin Watson.