The Patriots’ season is over after a 35-23 loss to the Buffalo Bills in the 2022 season finale. Here’s who we graded UP or DOWN based on their performance in the game…

UP: S Devin McCourty

If this was the final game of McCourty’s career, it was a strong showing by the veteran. McCourty made two takeaways, an easy interception that was the result of pressure, and a fumble recovery. He also made a great pass breakup on an early Bills drive, which did end up a touchdown, but was impressive nonetheless. One last tip of the cap for Dev.

DOWN: Kickoff Unit

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 08: Nyheim Hines #20 of the Buffalo Bills returns the opening kickoff for a touchdown during the first quarter against the New England Patriots at Highmark Stadium on January 08, 2023 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images)

I mean, everyone. Put everyone on the list. Poor tackling and angles were the main culprits in the Patriots allowing Nyheim Hines to run back TWO kickoffs for touchdowns, including 101 yards on the second one. And while it’s certainly on the players to execute, special teams coordinator Cam Achord should be under the microscope after this game, because the Patriots’ kicking game struggles ended up killing their season. It wasn’t a good season overall for the Patriots’ usually-good special teams, so big changes could be in store there, especially if Matthew Slater ends up retiring.

UP: LB Matthew Judon

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 08: Matthew Judon #9 of the New England Patriots tackles Devin Singletary #26 of the Buffalo Bills during the third quarter at Highmark Stadium on January 08, 2023 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)

It was a fine effort in the final game of the year for Judon, who finished with a QB hit and three total tackles. His pressure off the edge was a big factor that led to McCourty’s interception. Judon entered Sunday fourth in the NFL in sacks (15.5) and seventh in QB hits (27), so he should garner serious consideration for an All-Pro nod at outside linebacker.

DOWN: P Michael Palardy

Dec 24, 2022; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots punter Michael Palardy (17) drops the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Palardy has pretty much been a disaster since taking over as the primary punter with Jake Bailey injured. Sunday in Buffalo was no different, as Palardy punted four times for just 40.3 yards per punt. His one punt inside the 20-yard line was a 28-yarder to the 19. He also handled kickoffs, and one of them landed out of bounds for a penalty. Not much else to say about the journeyman punter, who has almost certainly played his last game as a Patriot.

UP: WR DeVante Parker

Parker picked a great time to return to the field and play his best football of the season. Parker caught two touchdowns, the second of which came in tight coverage down the field, while making six total catches for 79 yards. Wide receiver personnel wasn’t necessarily a big problem for the Patriots this season, and while Parker was inconsistent and dealt with injuries, it’s hard to blame that position group for the Pats’ failures in the end.

DOWN: WR Nelson Agholor

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 08: Dean Marlowe #31 of the Buffalo Bills celebrates with Tre’Davious White #27 of the Buffalo Bills after intercepting a pass intended for Nelson Agholor #15 of the New England Patriots during the third quarter at Highmark Stadium on January 08, 2023 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images)

You CAN, however, put some blame on Agholor for Mac Jones’ interception to Tre’Davious White down the sideline. It’s unclear who made the right and wrong decision on this play, as it looked like a clear miscommunication between him and Jones. But my money’s on the receiver over the quarterback. Agholor could’ve shown a little more fight for the ball, if only to precvent the pick, so he gets a “DOWN” for that play.

UP: DT Christian Barmore

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 08: Christian Barmore #90 of the New England Patriots tackles Josh Allen #17 of the Buffalo Bills during the second quarter at Highmark Stadium on January 08, 2023 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)

Give Barmore the nod in honor of the Patriots’ entire defensive interior. Barmore and Daniel Ekuale both often made life difficult for Josh Allen up the middle. Barmore has been a difference-maker since returning to the lineup for the Patriots and remains a bright spot on the roster. The hope now, is that he continues to get better and becomes a cornerstone piece for the Pats to build around in the future.

DOWN: C David Andrews

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 08: Mac Jones #10 of the New England Patriots dives for a first down during the third quarter against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on January 08, 2023 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)

The Patriots committed only two penalties on the day, but Andrews’ holding flag was one of them. New England ended up scoring a touchdown on that drive, but it was a surprising miscue by the Patriots’ team captain. It’s admittedly a nitpick, because outside of special teams, the Patriots’ offense and defense played pretty well overall in this game. Now, Andrews waits to see if McCourty and Slater retire, which would make him and Joe Cardona the longest-tenured Patriots.

And with that, Patriots Ups & Downs is over for the 2023 season. Thanks to everyone who read these quick recaps throughout the season. Next up: Patriots off-season coverage here at 985TheSportsHub.com.

Matt Dolloff is a writer and podcaster for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Yell at him on Twitter @mattdolloff and follow him on Instagram @realmattdolloff. Check out all of Matt’s content here.