Patriots Lose In Pre-Season Game

Tom Brady sat out the Patriots preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens.

Fourth-year veteran Matt Cassel started the game behind center. Second-year Matt Gutierrez and rookie Kevin O'Connell are expected to see action later in the game.

Wide receivers Randy Moss and Wes Welker were also on the bench during the Patriots first offensive series.

Linebacker Mike Vrabel and safety Rodney Harrison were kept out of the defensive starting lineup. Both began training camp on the team's physically unable to perform list, but have since returned to practice.

Starters often play only one quarter or less in the first exhibition game.