The Patriots closed out their preseason schedule with a 16-13 loss on the road against the Lions on August 31. The game featured two offenses that struggled to find consistent scoring drives as both teams relied heavily on special teams and key big plays.

Lions quarterback Edward Sherrod led the way with 304 passing yards and two touchdown passes. Sherrod connected with Christopher Jordan for a 47-yard touchdown in the third quarter and later found Ariel Emery for a 49-yard rushing touchdown. Lions kicker Robert Gill converted one extra point but missed an earlier attempt, contributing to the slim margin of victory.

The Patriots' offense had difficulties moving the ball through the air, completing 13 of 21 passes for 137 yards without a touchdown. Brian Rafferty paced the ground game with 92 rushing yards and added a 9-yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter to bring the Patriots within three points. Rafferty also caught two passes for 15 yards, demonstrating versatility as a dual-threat back.

The game remained scoreless through the first half with both teams missing multiple field goal attempts. Randy Colmenero of the Lions missed two field goals wide left and right. Patriots kicker John Reynolds converted both of his field goal attempts, including a 26-yard kick in the fourth quarter.

Defensively, both squads recorded three sacks each. The Lions' Sheldon Russell forced a fumble, while the Patriots' defense intercepted a pass in the fourth quarter, though it did not result in a scoring drive. Penalties were an issue for the Lions, who were flagged eight times for 60 yards, compared to just three penalties for 17 yards against the Patriots.

The Patriots struggled on third downs, failing to convert any attempts in the game. Their inability to generate points in the red zone contributed to the close loss despite maintaining possession for a solid share of the game.

The Patriots will take this defeat as a learning experience as they prepare for the regular season. The team showed promise in the rushing attack and special teams but will need to improve offensive consistency and capitalize on scoring opportunities to compete against league opponents.

Coach Charles Reed will likely focus on sharpening the passing attack and situational execution moving forward. The preseason finale highlighted areas requiring attention before the upcoming competitive slate.

Final score: Lions 16, Patriots 13.